Microsoft’s New Approach to Physical Games
Microsoft’s recent restructuring in its Xbox division has sparked rumors of mass layoffs affecting the production of physical games. While the company is indeed closing strategic departments, this does not signify a complete abandonment of the physical gaming realm. Instead, Microsoft is shifting its focus towards outsourcing services and consolidation.
In response to these reports, Josh Fairhurst, the CEO of distribution company Limited Run Games, took to social media to clarify the situation. Fairhurst announced that Limited Run Games will continue to support the production of physical games for the Xbox platform, “whenever possible.”
“Whenever possible, we will continue to support physical releases for Xbox games.” – Josh Fairhurst, @LimitedRunGames
Limited Run Games has previously released many physical copies of games for the Xbox platform, including titles such as Grim Fandango and the newer Monkey Island game. Fairhurst has also acknowledged the challenges associated with distributing games on the Xbox platform, stating that it is not always financially viable to produce physical versions as users predominantly prefer digital formats.
“The sales of physical games on Xbox are not sufficiently high to cover production costs, so we have no choice but to refrain from releasing these titles on Xbox.”
However, there is no cause for concern at the moment. The source of the initial report, Windows Central, clarifies that this decision does not mean “Xbox is giving up on physical games.” Rather, it is a strategic move in response to the future of the industry and the growing emphasis on digital gaming.
What are your thoughts on Microsoft potentially stepping away from physical games? Do you believe companies like Limited Run Games can fill this gap? Share your thoughts below.
FAQ:
1. What information is available regarding the mass layoffs in the Xbox division?
In recent days, there have been reports of mass layoffs in the Xbox division that have impacted the production of physical games.
2. Is Microsoft completely giving up on the production of physical games?
No, Microsoft intends to focus on outsourcing services and consolidation but is not completely abandoning the production of physical games.
3. Will Limited Run Games continue to support the production of physical games for the Xbox platform?
Yes, Josh Fairhurst, CEO of Limited Run Games, has confirmed that the company will continue to support the production of physical games for the Xbox platform, “whenever possible.”
4. Which games have been released in physical form by Limited Run Games on the Xbox platform?
Limited Run Games has previously released many physical copies of games on the Xbox platform, including titles such as Grim Fandango and the newer Monkey Island game.
5. Why can game distribution on the Xbox platform be challenging?
Josh Fairhurst from Limited Run Games mentioned certain difficulties with game distribution on the Xbox platform, citing that it is not always financially viable to release a physical version for this platform as users primarily prefer digital versions.
6. Is Microsoft completely giving up on physical games?
No, the source of the report, Windows Central, explains that Microsoft’s decision to cease physical game releases is primarily related to the future of the industry and the increasing emphasis on digital gaming.
Related Links:
– Limited Run Games
– xbox.com (official website)
The source of the article is from the blog anexartiti.gr