Xbox Games On PS5 Is A Win For PlayStation Owners, Former Sony Boss Says

Microsoft's debut of first-party games on PS5 marks a pivotal moment, fostering excitement among PlayStation owners and reshaping the gaming landscape.

Microsoft has recently launched its first-party games on rival platforms, including the PS5, as part of a strategy to expand its audience and increase revenue. This move has been welcomed by former PlayStation chief Shuhei Yoshida, who believes that it provides a significant advantage for PS5 owners who previously did not have access to these games. In a recent podcast, Yoshida remarked, "I think it’s a win for PlayStation owners; they didn’t have access [to those games] before."

Yoshida, who previously managed Sony’s first-party game production, warned that should PlayStation become a "minority platform," it could jeopardize the development of first-party games, as top creators might seek opportunities elsewhere. He emphasized that these creators are not only artists but also savvy business professionals aiming to reach the largest audience possible.

As it stands, Microsoft is currently in last place in terms of console sales among the big three, trailing behind the PS5 and Nintendo Switch. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has shifted the focus from convincing PS5 owners to switch to Xbox, instead opting to make more first-party titles available on the PS5, meeting players where they are.

This platform-agnostic approach has been evolving for Microsoft over several years, but the recent surge in game releases for the PS5 and Switch highlights a significant shift in strategy. While Microsoft embraces this broader reach, Sony remains steadfast in prioritizing exclusive titles for its own platforms, while also making strides to deliver more games to PC, including simultaneous releases for its live-service games.

Among the upcoming Xbox games set to launch on PlayStation is "Indiana Jones and the Great Circle," which is scheduled for release on PS5 this spring following its debut on Xbox in 2024. Additionally, "Doom: The Dark Ages" will be available in May across Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, debuting on all platforms simultaneously. Meanwhile, the RPG "Avowed," developed by the Microsoft-owned studio Obsidian, is set to launch on February 18 but has so far only been announced for Xbox and PC.