Microsoft’s Xbox Game Studios is making strides to enhance its game launch consistency across platforms, particularly focusing on PlayStation 5 (PS5) ports. This initiative follows the announcement that Playground Games will release its highly anticipated title, Fable, simultaneously on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC upon its launch. In contrast, the latest installment of the racing franchise, Forza Horizon 6, will not be available on PS5 at launch, a decision attributed to development timelines and shifting strategies.
During an interview with GamesRadar, Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan acknowledged the current inconsistencies in the release of titles across different platforms. “Sometimes we are inconsistent. You see some games in one place, some games in multiple places. Just know that we’re going to work on that, and we’re going to try and be more consistent with what we do,” Duncan stated. His comments came in response to questions regarding the decision-making process surrounding the launch of Fable and the new game from Double Fine, titled Kiln, both of which will debut on PS5 on the same day.
Duncan elaborated that the inconsistency stems from adapting existing development plans to evolving strategies and objectives. “When a strategy changes, maybe you’ve got a plan that exists with a game and maybe you can adopt that, maybe you can’t,” he explained. This flexibility is crucial in the gaming industry, where development timelines can be unpredictable.
The choice to delay the PS5 version of Forza Horizon 6 arose because the studio was not in a position to deliver the port simultaneously with the Xbox Series X|S and PC versions. In contrast, the teams behind Fable and Kiln have demonstrated readiness to meet the launch day expectations for PS5.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Microsoft is keenly aware of the competitive pressures from rival platforms. The company aims to align its releases more closely, ensuring that gamers on all platforms receive new titles simultaneously. Duncan’s assurances signal a commitment to improving the overall gaming experience, particularly for players on the PS5, who have been eager for more high-profile titles to be available at launch.
With this focus on consistency, Microsoft is positioning itself to better compete in the dynamic gaming market, where cross-platform play and timely releases are increasingly paramount. As the gaming community anticipates the arrival of Fable and Kiln, all eyes will be on how Xbox Game Studios executes its strategy moving forward.
