Source- GamesRadar
Bethesda’s Epic Journey Across Consoles
Bethesda’s upcoming Indiana Jones game, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, initially unveiled during Microsoft’s Xbox Developer Direct event, may soon embark on a multi-platform adventure that includes Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5). Inside Microsoft, a new strategy is taking shape, with a consideration for certain Xbox titles to extend their reach beyond exclusivity and make their mark on platforms like Nintendo Switch or PS5. While Indiana Jones is poised for an initial launch as an Xbox console exclusive, indications suggest a relatively short exclusivity window, with a potential release for PS5 tentatively slated for December 2024.
Unveiling Xbox’s Multi-Platform Evolution
Microsoft’s evolving approach signifies a departure from the rigid confines of exclusivity, ushering in an era where select Xbox games are contemplated for broader availability. Indiana Jones represents a pivotal example of this industry shift, marking the emergence of a new wave of multi-platform games under consideration. The move aligns with Microsoft’s exploration of cross-platform possibilities, signaling a departure from traditional norms and embracing a more inclusive gaming landscape.
Official Gameplay Reveal Trailer: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Beyond Indiana Jones: Sea of Thieves, Hi-Fi Rush, and Starfield in the Mix
The multi-platform strategy extends beyond Indiana Jones, with other Xbox titles such as Sea of Thieves and Hi-Fi Rush reportedly under consideration for cross-platform releases. A forthcoming announcement about Hi-Fi Rush’s availability on non-Xbox platforms is expected in the coming weeks. Additionally, reports and datamined assets suggest Microsoft is gearing up to introduce Starfield to PS5, following the release of the game’s “Shattered Space” expansion for Xbox and PC.
Navigating Internal Debates and Licensing Challenges
The decision to extend Indiana Jones to PS5 has sparked internal debates within Microsoft, reflecting the delicate balance between exclusivity and broader accessibility. Insights from last year’s FTC v. Microsoft case revealed that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle were initially intended for multiple consoles. However, licensing complexities and potential delays associated with accommodating various consoles led to an amendment of the deal, transforming it into an Xbox console exclusive post-Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda.
While the prospect of an Indiana Jones launch on PS5 might be surprising, it underscores Microsoft’s willingness to reassess traditional approaches. As the gaming industry witnesses a transformative shift in strategies, the intricate details of how Microsoft will strike a balance between exclusivity and multi-platform availability remain a focal point of internal discussions. The decision reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity across various consoles as key priorities shaping the future of gaming.
