In a recent interview, Matt Booty, head of Xbox Game Studios, shed light on the company’s approach to releasing games on platforms beyond Xbox, such as the PlayStation 5. Booty emphasized that decisions regarding exclusivity and release windows are made on a case-by-case basis, with each studio operating under unique circumstances.
Booty explained that production timelines play a pivotal role in determining how and when games might arrive on other platforms. “We are very much making the [exclusivity and windowing] decisions on a game-by-game basis. And each of our studios is in a little bit of a different position,” he stated. The process involves evaluating the production schedules of individual games, with the priority being to ensure an optimal experience for Xbox players before considering other platforms.
He added, “The decision on spacing comes there first. We want to make sure there’s a great experience for our Xbox players, and then the gap between [when it becomes available on PlayStation] is as much a production decision as it is anything else.” Booty also highlighted the unique context for some titles, referencing the fact that certain games, such as those from Bethesda, were already in development prior to Microsoft’s acquisition of the studio.
This flexible and production-driven approach allows Xbox Game Studios to adapt to the demands of individual projects while maintaining a focus on delivering quality experiences for its core audience.
Indiana Jones and the Golden Circle is the latest game from Xbox Game Studios that is also confirmed to launch on the PS5 next year. It is currently available for PC and Xbox Series S|X.
