Microsoft recently embraced a “controversial” multiplatform strategy for its gaming division.
This strategy involves releasing some of its previously exclusive Xbox games on rival platforms like PlayStation and Nintendo Switch.
Several high-profile Xbox titles have made the jump to other platforms, including “Hi-Fi Rush,” “Sea of Thieves,” and “Grounded.”
These games are now available on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, in addition to their original Xbox and PC releases.
While some applaud the move for its potential to reach a broader audience, most fans view it as a betrayal of the company’s roots in console exclusivity.
But looks like this strategy had paid off for Microsoft in a big way as per the recent statement by Satya Nadella during the earning call of Q3 of FY24.
How Successful Has the Multi-platform Strategy Been?
During Microsoft’s recent quarterly earnings call, CEO Satya Nadella revealed that the multi-platform strategy is already paying dividends.
According to Nadella, Microsoft had seven games among the top 25 best-selling titles on the PlayStation Store in mid-April, more than any other publisher.
These games are
- #2 – “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3”
- #7 – “Overwatch 2”
- #12 – “Sea of Thieves”
- #16 – “Fallout 4”
- #19 – “Minecraft”
- #20 – “Fallout 76”
- #23 – “Grounded”
Interestingly, Microsoft had more first-party games in the PlayStation Store’s top 25 than Sony itself.
At the time, Sony only had five games in the top 25, including:
- “MLB The Show 24”
- “Destiny 2”
- “Helldivers 2”
- “Stellar Blade”
- “Rise of the Ronin”
What’s Next for Microsoft’s Multi-platform Strategy?
Nadella stated that Microsoft is “committed to meeting players where they are by bringing great games to more people on more devices.”
This means that more Xbox titles could make their way to other platforms, especially multiplayer games and potentially some major single-player titles such as Starfield and the upcoming Hellblade2, Indiana Jones game.
According to reports, the latest release of “Sea of Thieves” on PlayStation 5 on April 30th is being viewed as a “key test” for Microsoft.
If the game performs well and is well-received on a rival platform, the company may consider to bring more of its titles to other platforms.
Overall Performance
Despite a significant decline in Xbox hardware sales (31% drop), Microsoft’s gaming division had a record third quarter, thanks in large part to the acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
This acquisition has given Microsoft a stronger foothold on rival platforms with franchises like “Call of Duty,” “Diablo 4,” and “Minecraft.”
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