Microsoft's Xbox division is planning to enhance its release strategy for PlayStation 5 titles, aiming for more consistency in timing.Xbox Game Studios boss Craig Duncan recently addressed this topic, acknowledging that the company has been somewhat inconsistent in its approach to releasing games on the PS5 compared to its own platforms and PC.
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videogameschronicle.commp1st.comIn 2025, Xbox released six titles for the PS5, with additional launches planned for the current year.However, the release timing has varied significantly.Notably, games like "Gears of War: Reloaded" and "The Outer Worlds 2" were available on launch day for the PS5, while others such as "Indiana Jones" and "Avowed" experienced delayed releases.
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videogameschronicle.comDuncan highlighted that the inconsistency is set to continue into 2026, with "Fable" confirmed as a day-one release on the PS5 alongside Xbox Series X|S and PC versions.Conversely, "Forza Horizon 6" will arrive on the PS5 months after its initial launch.
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mp1st.comIn an interview with Games Radar, Duncan explained the challenges in game development that contribute to these timing discrepancies.He stated, "There's always development realities about when these projects start - how big a team is, and what plans we have at the start of development." He acknowledged that strategies can change during the development process, which impacts release schedules.
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videogameschronicle.comDuncan emphasized that feedback regarding release inconsistencies has been heard and taken seriously.He noted, "Just know that we're going to work on that, and we're going to try and be more consistent with what we do." The goal, as he explained, is to allow as many players as possible to enjoy their games, regardless of platform.
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mp1st.comWhen discussing the ideal scenario for PS5 releases, Duncan did not commit to a strategy of simultaneous launches for all titles.He stated, "Some games we might go PC first, others we might go console first," acknowledging that resource limitations can affect release strategies.
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videogameschronicle.comThis evolving strategy appears to be part of Xbox's broader goal to expand its audience and community through multiplatform releases.Duncan reflected on past successes, citing "Forza Horizon 5," which performed well after its PS5 launch, indicating that a larger player base benefits the community around their games.
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mp1st.comAs Xbox navigates these changes, it remains clear that the focus will be on quality and performance tailored to each platform.Duncan remarked, "Wherever our games show up, we want them to show up and be the best that they can be for that platform." He reinforced the importance of ensuring that games are properly optimized for each system before release.
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videogameschronicle.comIn conclusion, Xbox's commitment to improving its PS5 release strategy marks a significant shift in its approach to game distribution.As the company works to establish a more predictable schedule, the gaming community will be watching closely to see how these changes impact future title launches across all platforms.
