Microsoft is reportedly surveying a subset of Xbox users about a significant potential shift in its exclusive game strategy. The survey, confirmed as legitimate by Windows Central, asks how users would feel about making all Xbox-developed games, with the exception of Call of Duty, console-exclusive to Xbox.
This scenario, described as a "totally nuclear option" within the survey, would mean that titles from franchises like Minecraft, Fallout, The Elder Scrolls, Doom, and Diablo would no longer be available for purchase on PlayStation or Nintendo consoles. For Minecraft specifically, existing titles would remain playable on other platforms, but new content updates would cease, and future game purchases would be limited to Xbox consoles and PC.
The survey presented users with hypothetical choices regarding where they would play these exclusive titles, including on an existing Xbox, a new Series X|S console, on PC, or if they would skip playing the game entirely due to its unavailability on their preferred console.
Sources indicate that Xbox CEO Asha Sharma and Xbox boss Matt Booty have internally discussed re-evaluating the company's approach to exclusivity. Sharma has previously alluded to potential changes, stating that Xbox needs exclusives to return to growth. The survey's findings could inform these discussions, alongside considerations about "windowing" content, which might involve delaying certain games' availability on Game Pass.
While the "nuclear option" represents a stark return to strict exclusivity, its implementation seems unlikely given the potential loss of revenue. The survey is likely part of Microsoft's ongoing research and fact-finding to gauge player sentiment regarding such drastic measures. This exploration into exclusivity follows recent organizational changes at Xbox, including layoffs, studio closures, and game cancellations, as the company navigates a strategic reset.