Xbox Game Studios leader believes multiplatform strategy benefits both players and developers.

Craig Duncan, the head of Xbox Game Studios, believes that Microsoft’s strategy of releasing games across multiple platforms is beneficial for both players and developers. In the past year, several games that were previously exclusive to Xbox have been made available on platforms like PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. One notable example is “Sea of Thieves,” a game that Duncan helped launch during his time as the head of the game development studio Rare.

In a recent Xbox podcast, Duncan shared his thoughts on this approach. He emphasized that it is a positive move for gamers and for the studios that create these games. “Our studios make amazing games, and we want to give those games the chance to reach the broadest audience possible,” he explained. This reflects a strong desire to ensure that their games are accessible to as many players as possible.

Last February, Xbox announced a series of games that would be coming to PlayStation and Switch, including titles like “Pentiment,” “Hi-Fi Rush,” “Sea of Thieves,” and “Grounded.” Later, Microsoft revealed that new games such as “Doom: The Dark Ages” would be available on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PS5, along with an upcoming Indiana Jones game set to launch on PlayStation this spring. Additionally, “Forza Horizon 5” is also expected to release on PS5 this spring, and there are plans to bring “Age of Mythology: Retold” and “Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition” to Sony’s console later this year.

Duncan reiterated the importance of reaching a wider audience, stating, “I just think it’s good for gamers; it’s good to have our games reach more places.” He expressed that every game creator wants their work to be enjoyed by as many players as possible, which is why he supports this strategy of expanding their game’s availability.

In November, Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft’s gaming division, indicated that the company is open to the idea of first-party Xbox games being released on other platforms in the future. It has even been suggested that “Hellblade 2” could be one of the next Xbox exclusive games to make its way to PS5.

During the podcast, Duncan also shared some news about the development of “Fable,” confirming that its release has been delayed to 2026. This reflects the challenges and complexities involved in game development, which can sometimes lead to longer timelines.

Overall, Duncan’s insights reveal a commitment to inclusivity in gaming, aiming to break down barriers that once kept players on different consoles apart. By allowing games to be played on various platforms, Xbox hopes to create a more unified and enjoyable gaming experience for everyone, resulting in a win-win situation for both gamers and developers alike.