One of the most common arguments used in the infamous console wars is exclusives. Indeed, in recent years we have seen concerted efforts by Microsoft to bolster its lineup of internal studios and consequently release more first-party titles. While it aims to have the upper hand in 2023, will it be enough to put PlayStation in a bind?
According to the analysis and research firm DFC Intelligence, of the 200 most anticipated games of the coming months, Xbox has the advantage with 26 exclusive projects against the 22 exclusive PlayStation titles (including third-party titles).
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According to the information, Microsoft closed the gap because some of its most important exclusives that were going to debut last year were delayed and now they aim to launch in 2023. Contrary to what happened with Sony, which launched very strong projects in 2022 and now has a sparse lineup for the next few months.
We must remember that one of Sony’s biggest releases for this year is Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, which could reportedly arrive in September.
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Will Microsoft’s next exclusive games put PlayStation in trouble?
When it comes to exclusives, it looks like Microsoft will have the upper hand this year with offerings like Starfield and Redfall. However, will it be enough to reduce the market share of PlayStation and that consumers prefer to buy an Xbox console? According to the firm DFC Intelligence, it seems unlikely.
“These titles were long anticipated and presumably factored into purchasing decisions. On the contrary, if a title like Starfield does not meet expectations, it could hurt sales of Xbox Series X | S (…) “Yes, Xbox has some great exclusives in the works, but currently they are not enough to reduce participation PlayStation market,” said the research and analysis firm.
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Additionally, DFC Intelligence points out that users have little incentive to invest in Microsoft’s new console, since they can always purchase an Xbox Game Pass subscription to play the company’s exclusive titles coming this year and beyond on PC.
The above coincides with another report from the agency that indicates that Microsoft spends a lot of money on Xbox Game Pass, but obtains little economic benefit. Specifically, he pointed out that the subscription service does not work as a business and will no longer be sustainable in the long term.
Finally, the firm points out that the controversial purchase of Activision Blizzard could “balance the competitive landscape.” While he thinks the acquisition will come to fruition, he notes that if it fails and doesn’t come to fruition, it will jeopardize Microsoft’s position in the gaming industry.
But tell us, what do you think of the results of this research? Do you agree? Let us read you in the comments.
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