Xbox has reportedly initiated surveys with its player base to gauge reactions to a potential return to full console exclusivity for its game portfolio, with the exception of the Call of Duty franchise. This inquiry, as detailed by Windows Central, probes player opinions on various exclusivity scenarios.
Some survey questions specifically address the prospect of major franchises like Fallout becoming console-exclusive to Xbox and PC. A more sweeping question asks players to consider a future where all Xbox-developed titles, excluding Call of Duty, are exclusively available on Xbox consoles and PC. The survey also touched upon Minecraft, proposing that existing titles might be removed from sale on platforms such as PlayStation and Nintendo, while current owners would retain access to their games without further content updates. The announcement would not affect PC availability or existing owned content.
These questions appear designed to assess the extent to which players value exclusivity, whether they would be inclined to switch gaming hardware for exclusive titles, or if they would forego a game due to its exclusive status. While such surveys represent a broad exploration of possibilities and do not guarantee any specific strategic shifts, they suggest that Xbox is seriously considering a strengthened focus on exclusivity.
This reported survey follows recent statements from Xbox where games like Gears of War: E-Day and Clockwork Revolution were confirmed as permanent exclusives for Xbox and PC. However, the exclusivity status for other titles has remained less clear, with games such as Forza Horizon 6 and Fable still slated for release on PlayStation 5. The future exclusivity of major upcoming titles, like The Elder Scrolls 6, remains a significant point of speculation.
Xbox is navigating a complex period, aiming to bolster its reputation and financial performance. Recent reports indicate that Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has identified the Game Pass strategy as a factor impacting sales of major releases, as it may reduce the incentive for players to purchase titles like Call of Duty at launch. In line with this, Xbox has adjusted its approach, such as removing Call of Duty from Game Pass on day one and is rumored to be reconsidering its day-one release strategy for 2027.
The company appears to be actively soliciting player feedback as it contemplates significant strategic decisions for its gaming division.