Microsoft doesn't want to share its Xbox exclusives with Switch and PS4 anymore

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Don't worry, Ori and the Blind Forest is still coming to Switch

(Image credit: Microsoft)

Microsoft says they have "no plans" to release Xbox exclusives on competing consoles after the surprise announcement that Ori and the Blind Forest is coming to the Switch. In a statement to GamesIndustry.biz, the company clarified that existing plans to port Microsoft IP to different platforms will continue, but that Xbox Game Studios would henceforth be dedicated to making games exclusively for Microsoft's own platforms.

Fortunately, it doesn't sound like Microsoft is backing away from crossplay, as the statement goes on to express support in that regard. "We continue to believe deeply in crossplay and progression of games with the right flexibility for developers to ensure a fair and fun experience."

Microsoft appears to be taking action against the notion that their consoles, and the Xbox One in particular, don't tend to come with a whole lot of exclusives. Even Microsoft-exclusive titles are often available on PC, making the Xbox as it stands a tough sell for gamers who prioritize first-party exclusives.

The Xbox One isn't entirely without its exclusives - we even put together a list of the very best of 'em.

Jordan Gerblick
Jordan Gerblick
Staff Writer

After earning an English degree from ASU, I worked as a corporate copy editor while freelancing for places like SFX Magazine, Screen Rant, Game Revolution, and MMORPG on the side. I got my big break here in 2019 with a freelance news gig, and I was hired on as GamesRadar's west coast Staff Writer in 2021. That means I'm responsible for managing the site's western regional executive branch, AKA my home office, and writing about whatever horror game I'm too afraid to finish.