Microsoft will make four games that were previously exclusive to Xbox available on competing consoles, including the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer announced during the brand’s official podcast.
Which games and timing
Spencer did not specify the exact titles that will be released for other platforms. He said only that the games chosen have been available on Xbox for at least one year. He also indicated that major recent releases such as Starfield or the next Indiana Jones are not among the titles planned for cross-platform release.
Context behind the decision
The move follows weeks of rumors about Xbox exclusives coming to PlayStation 5 and appears linked to licensing agreements established with Sony and other companies. According to previous reporting, those agreements—covering content licensing for a period of five to ten years—were a factor in regulatory approval in the United Kingdom for Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Reported candidates and confirmation status
Sources cited by The Verge have suggested that Hi-Fi Rush and Pentiment could be among the four titles, with Sea of Thieves and Grounded arriving at a later date. Those reports remain unconfirmed by Microsoft.
Business motive and recent company moves
On the podcast, Microsoft framed the strategy as a way to diversify revenue streams by making some formerly exclusive games available on more popular platforms. The announcement comes after Microsoft reduced its gaming workforce by about 1,900 employees and announced that Diablo IV—the first major title released after the Activision acquisition—will be added to Xbox Game Pass for subscribers starting March 28.
Industry reaction
The announcement coincides with comments from Sony during a recent teleconference indicating the company plans to improve operating profit by making original games available on additional platforms. Microsoft’s podcast statement marks the first time Xbox’s division has addressed this specific topic directly.
Watch the full Xbox podcast interview for more details.
