Xbox Says It Aims to Be More Consistent with PS5 Release Timing in Future
Xbox has confirmed that it plans to refine its approach to launching games on PlayStation 5, with the aim of being “more consistent” about how and when its titles arrive on Sony’s console going forward. The comments came as part of wider discussions around Microsoft’s evolving multiplatform strategy, which has seen more Xbox Game Studios titles planned for release on PS5 in recent years.
The remarks were made by Craig Duncan, head of Xbox Game Studios, who explained that while Xbox wants to expand the reach of its games, it recognises that release timing and schedule clarity have sometimes been uneven — leading to mixed reactions from players. Going forward, Microsoft says it wants to provide a more predictable cadence for PS5 release timing, even if simultaneous launches aren’t guaranteed in every case.
Why This Matters
Xbox’s approach to releasing games on PS5 has become a talking point in the industry as the company shifts away from strict exclusivity:
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Xbox has brought or planned several first-party titles to PS5, including Fable — which will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5 simultaneously — and Forza Horizon 6, which arrives on PS5 later in 2026.
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This represents a broader push to let more players enjoy Xbox games regardless of platform, with Duncan noting that some releases were staggered due to development realities and optimisation priorities rather than strategic withholding.
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While simultaneous releases are a goal where possible, Duncan clarified that Xbox won’t commit to a universal rule, especially when teams feel more time is needed to deliver quality ports.
Microsoft’s multiplatform strategy reflects a significant shift from earlier Xbox business models that focused primarily on platform exclusivity, with the company now emphasising accessibility and audience growth across ecosystems.
Xbox’s Multiplatform Strategy So Far
The push for improved consistency follows years of incremental change. Xbox has already delivered some of its titles to rival platforms — often after an initial Xbox release — while other games are planned for day-one multiplatform launch. For example:
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Fable will launch on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5 in autumn 2026.
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Forza Horizon 6 is set for an Xbox Series X|S and PC launch in May 2026, with a PS5 release later in the year.
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Other multiplatform ports, like South of Midnight, have also been announced with staggered releases on PS5 and other platforms.
Duncan’s comments stress that this strategy is not just about timing — it’s about giving games space in an increasingly crowded release calendar so they can have their “own oxygen” when they launch.