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Phil Spencer has expressed openness to changing the traditional console model, for the benefit of both players and console companies.
Recently, Phil Spencer, Microsoft’s CEO of Gaming, expressed his openness to the idea of integrating other game stores like Epic and Itch.io into Xbox consoles.
In an interview with Polygon, Spencer expressed his frustration with the traditional console model, which limits players to buying games from a console-specific, first-party store. He argued that this model deprives console players of the freedom of choice, a liberty that PC users take for granted.
Spencer underscored the significance of having options for consumers. The choice of where to buy games, in his opinion, shouldn't be exclusive to PC users. Console players should be afforded the same freedom.
“So I think, what are the barriers? What are the things that create friction in today’s world for creators and players? And how can we be part of opening up that model?”
Image Credit: Microsoft
While Spencer highlighted the importance of giving consumers options, there's another aspect to consider. Traditionally, console manufacturers have been subsidizing the cost of their hardware, counting on regaining the subsidy through the portion of the revenue they received from each game sale on their platform. The exclusivity of game titles was a key component of this model.
However, Spencer expressed a desire to move away from this approach and towards a more open gaming ecosystem. He highlighted the example of Sea of Thieves, explaining that players shouldn't have to worry about the hardware their friends own, but simply whether they have and want to play the game.
Image Credit: Epic Games
Considering the flat growth in the console market and the continued expansion of the PC market, it seems smart for consoles to follow the steps of the PC model.
If Spencer's vision becomes a reality, we could one day switch on our Xboxes to find a host of game stores like Epic and Itch.io. In his view, not only would this be advantageous for console players, but it would also be beneficial for console manufacturers like Microsoft.
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