Xbox Survey About Exclusives Includes A Nuclear Strategy, But Wait Just A Minute

Microsoft is reportedly surveying Xbox users about a potential major shift in its gaming strategy: making several of its biggest franchises exclusive to Xbox consoles and PC. The survey, distributed to Xbox Insiders this week, asks players how they would feel about exclusivity for major franchises including Fallout, The Elder Scrolls, Minecraft, DOOM, and Diablo. Notably, Call of Duty is explicitly excluded from this hypothetical exclusivity scenario.

The survey represents a significant reversal of Xbox’s recent multi-platform approach. Under the previous strategy, Microsoft emphasized reaching the broadest possible audience, famously captured in the phrase “everything is an Xbox.” This led to major franchises like Halo: Combat Evolved being released on PlayStation 5, alongside Xbox and PC releases.

However, since Asha Sharma became Xbox CEO, the division has shifted its emphasis back toward console exclusivity. Recent releases like Gears of War: E-Day and the upcoming Clockwork Revolution have already been positioned as Xbox console exclusives. The new survey signals Microsoft may be considering expanding this exclusivity strategy to some of its most recognizable franchises.

It’s important to note that surveys like this are exploratory research and do not necessarily indicate confirmed product plans. Xbox has a dedicated research team that regularly gathers user feedback on various hypothetical scenarios. The results of such surveys don’t always translate into actual business decisions.

The survey’s timing comes as Xbox continues to restructure under Sharma’s leadership, which has included significant layoffs and studio reorganization. The company appears to be testing whether emphasizing exclusivity might help boost Xbox console adoption against entrenched competitors like PlayStation.

Xbox Survey About Exclusives Includes A Nuclear Strategy, But Wait Just A Minute

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