In recent weeks, the internet has been abuzz with rumors suggesting a potential shift in Microsoft’s strategy regarding the release of Xbox first-party games. Speculation has mounted that Microsoft might begin distributing its exclusive titles on competing platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and Sony PlayStation 5. These rumors have been fueled by Microsoft’s announcement to unveil more about its “vision for the future of Xbox” during an upcoming Official Xbox Podcast scheduled for February 15th.

Among the most intriguing speculations is the possibility of major Xbox exclusives like Starfield, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Hi-Fi Rush making their way to PlayStation and Nintendo consoles. While such a move may seem unconventional, it’s not unprecedented in the gaming industry, with examples like Sony publishing PlayStation titles on PC via Steam.

Some enthusiasts have gone as far as to speculate that Microsoft may be considering an exit from the console hardware business altogether. However, despite the Xbox Series X/S trailing behind the Switch and PS5 in sales figures, such a scenario appears unlikely. According to reports from an internal town hall meeting, Xbox head Phil Spencer reassured employees that Xbox remains committed to console development alongside its broader gaming strategy.

The Xbox Game Pass continues to stand out as a key selling point for Xbox hardware, with a 2023 survey indicating that 32% of gamers are subscribed to the service. Microsoft reported over 33 million Game Pass subscribers in 2022, a figure that has likely increased since then. Furthermore, Xbox Microsoft’s overall financial performance remains robust, with second-quarter earnings for 2024 showing a revenue increase of 18% to $62 billion and profits reaching $21.9 billion, partially driven by the impending acquisition of Activision.