Gaming Industry Weekly Roundup: Key Updates and Rumors
Phil Spencer’s recent interviews confirmed that Xbox is embracing a multiplatform future, with few “red lines” limiting which games could come to PlayStation or Nintendo. Titles like Forza Horizon 5 are confirmed for a PS5 release this spring, with a potential Switch version in the works. This shift aims to offset declining Xbox hardware sales (down 29% last quarter) by expanding to new audiences.
Future Xbox exclusives like Starfield, Hellblade 2, and even the Gears of War trilogy may follow. Despite this, Microsoft remains committed to its next-gen console, emphasizing innovation in hardware capabilities. However, with Sony’s PS5 outselling Xbox 5:1 in some regions, the challenge lies in differentiating future Xbox hardware—could Steam integration or unique features be the answer?
PlayStation Leadership Shake-Up
Sony Interactive Entertainment announced a restructuring, with Hermen Hulst transitioning from co-CEO to a role focused on overseeing PlayStation Studios and cross-media projects. This follows mixed results in live-service ventures: only Helldivers 2 succeeded among 12 planned titles, leading to cancellations like The Last of Us Online.
Hulst’s future may hinge on upcoming live-service projects (Horizon Online, Marathon, and Fairgame$). Meanwhile, Sony continues prioritizing single-player experiences to drive console sales.
PlayStation Plus and PC Strategy Updates
PS4 Titles Phased Out: Starting January 2026, PlayStation Plus Essential will prioritize PS5 games, reducing monthly PS4 offerings.
PC Flexibility: Sony removed mandatory PSN account linking for PC ports (God of War Ragnarök, Horizon Forbidden West), offering optional rewards instead.
Game Releases and Industry Layoffs
Rise of the Ronin heads to PC on March 11, 2025, after a PS5-exclusive year.
Ubisoft cut 185 jobs, primarily in European support studios, and shuttered the DJ Hero studio Ubisoft Leamington.
BioWare shifted focus to Mass Effect 5, leading to layoffs for writers and producers on Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
Sony Bend faced layoffs after canceling a live-service project but retained some staff for a new unannounced game.
Rumor Check: God of War in Egypt?
A rumor suggests the next God of War could explore Egyptian mythology, citing Middle Eastern actor casting calls. However, skepticism remains:
The source, Daniel Richtman, has a mixed track record (e.g., false Bloodborne movie claims).
God of War Ragnarök hinted at Asian settings, and an Atreus spinoff could allow smaller-scale experiments.
Verdict: Unlikely as the next main game’s focus, but possible as a side story.
Upcoming Highlights
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 launches February 18, promising deeper RPG mechanics.
Investor Calls: EA, Nintendo, and Take-Two will share updates on Mafia 4, Borderlands 4, and GTA 6.
PS+ Essential Games (July): Payday 3, High on Life, and Pac-Man World Re-Pac.
Final Thoughts
The gaming landscape is evolving rapidly, with Xbox betting on cross-platform reach and Sony refining its live-service ambitions. As studios navigate layoffs and shifting strategies, players can anticipate bold moves—and perhaps a few surprises—in the months ahead. Stay tuned for more updates!
