Bethesda’s highly anticipated Indiana Jones game, titled “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle,” is set to release on various platforms. Initially announced as an Xbox and PC exclusive during Microsoft’s Xbox Developer Direct event, there are now indications that the game might also come to Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5). This shift toward multi-platform releases is part of Microsoft’s new strategy, which aims to bring certain Xbox games to rival consoles like the Switch and PS5. While Indiana Jones will enjoy a short period of exclusivity on Xbox, Bethesda is reportedly considering a release for PS5 in the later months, potentially targeting a December 2024 launch.
The Shift Towards Multi-Platform Games
Microsoft’s decision to explore multi-platform releases comes as no surprise considering recent reports. Games like Sea of Thieves and Hi-Fi Rush have been under consideration for cross-platform releases, and there have been discussions about bringing other Xbox titles to rival consoles as well. The company’s evaluation of bringing Xbox exclusives to PS5 and the Switch highlights a significant change in its approach, opening up new opportunities for players on different platforms.
Potential Release on PS5
While Indiana Jones being released on PS5 would undoubtedly surprise many, internal debates within Microsoft indicate a willingness to explore this possibility. The decision to initially make the game exclusive to Xbox consoles was based on a contract that Bethesda had with multiple console platforms. However, after Microsoft acquired Bethesda, the deal was amended to an Xbox console exclusive. Pete Hines, Bethesda’s former head of global publishing, testified in the FTC v. Microsoft case last year that the change was due to potential delays in bringing the game to multiple consoles and the significant feedback from the licensor, Disney.
Microsoft’s plan to bring Xbox games to rival platforms like PS5 and the Switch is still a work in progress. The company is likely considering various factors, including the potential player base and market reach, when making these decisions. The recent data mining of game assets and reports from XboxEra hinting at a PS5 release for the upcoming Starfield game further support the theory that Microsoft is expanding its horizons beyond the Xbox ecosystem.
The Devil in the Details
While Bethesda is tentatively targeting a December 2024 launch for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on Xbox and PC, it’s important to note that timing and platform availability could change. Microsoft’s new multi-platform approach for Xbox games is still being finalized, and it’s possible that adjustments will be made. The company will need to carefully consider how these exclusivity periods and multi-platform releases will impact its relationship with the Xbox community while exploring new avenues for growth and expansion.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the concept of exclusivity is becoming less rigid. Companies like Microsoft are recognizing the value of reaching a broader audience and providing players with more options to enjoy their favorite games. While there may still be internal debates about the potential risks and benefits of multi-platform releases, the industry appears to be moving toward a more inclusive approach.
The news of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle potentially launching on PS5 is part of a larger shift in Microsoft’s strategy toward multi-platform releases. While Bethesda’s game will enjoy a period of exclusivity on Xbox consoles, the possibility of a PS5 release demonstrates Microsoft’s willingness to expand its reach and cater to a broader player base. As the gaming industry evolves, it will be fascinating to see how other Xbox exclusives and upcoming titles find their way onto rival consoles, bridging the gap between different gaming communities and providing players with an array of options and experiences.
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