Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has firmly stated that the Xbox division is not for sale, pushing back against speculation fueled by recent layoffs and a broader restructuring within Microsoft's gaming group. In a profile published by The New York Times, Sharma emphasized Microsoft's long-term commitment to Xbox.
"We’ve got a long way to go with Microsoft, and we’re going to take the long-term view," Sharma told the Times. Her comments come at a time of significant change for Xbox, which has seen thousands of employees laid off, studios divested, and projects canceled. This period of upheaval has led to questions about Microsoft's future strategy for its gaming console and services.
Sharma, who took over leadership of the gaming group in February, has implemented a series of strategic shifts. These include adjustments to Game Pass pricing and a change in its offerings, such as no longer providing new Call of Duty titles on day one. The company has also reportedly introduced time limits for cloud gaming on the service. These moves signal a departure from the previous era under Phil Spencer, with Sharma indicating a need for disruption within the industry.
Despite rumors suggesting Microsoft considered spinning off or selling the Xbox brand, Sharma reiterated her stance: "Xbox is not for sale." She affirmed that the company will take necessary steps, including exploring partnerships and optimizing its operating model, to ensure its success. One such recent partnership involves Kojima Productions, which will publish the upcoming game Physint. According to The New York Times, this deal was significantly less expensive than typical premium game development costs for Xbox and includes rights for TV and film adaptations of the IP.
While Sharma and her team are charting a new course for Xbox, the company still faces ongoing layoffs and the anticipated launch of its next-generation console, codenamed Project Helix. The evolving strategy suggests that plans may continue to adapt.