Microsoft will do everything to impose its Game Pass on Nintendo and PlayStation consoles
For years, Microsoft’s Xbox has been a major player in the gaming industry, but recent developments have sparked a bold new strategy. Unlike the sales boom PlayStation 5 is experiencing, Xbox’s latest models, Series S and X, haven’t achieved the same success. In response, Microsoft is focusing on its Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service offering over a hundred games, including new releases from Xbox studios, for 16.32 USD per month. This service is already available on Xbox consoles, PCs, phones, tablets, and some smart TVs.
A New Target: PlayStation and Nintendo
Tim Stuart, the financial director of Xbox at Microsoft, recently revealed a shift in strategy, aiming to bring Xbox experiences and subscriptions to every possible screen. This includes smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and, intriguingly, PlayStation and Nintendo devices. This move suggests Microsoft is trying to either partner with or challenge Sony and Nintendo by introducing Game Pass to their platforms.
Microsoft and Nintendo: A History of Overtures
The relationship between Microsoft and Nintendo has been evolving over the years. More than two decades ago, Microsoft attempted to acquire Nintendo, which was met with resistance. However, recent gestures show a thawing in relations. Characters from Microsoft-owned franchises, like Minecraft’s Steve and Rare’s Banjo and Kazooie, have appeared in Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros. Additionally, Jet Force Gemini, a Rare game from the Nintendo 64 era, was added to Nintendo’s online service.
While Microsoft is reaching out to Nintendo, it remains uncertain whether Nintendo would allow Game Pass on its consoles, given the competition it would pose to its own games.
Sony: The Formidable Rival
The dynamics between Sony and Microsoft are more competitive. Sony’s PlayStation continues to overshadow Xbox in sales, partly due to its popular exclusive titles. However, Microsoft is not backing down. They recently completed the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a move that has caused concern for Sony, especially given the popularity of the Call of Duty franchise on PlayStation consoles.
This acquisition raises questions about Microsoft’s intentions. Could they be planning to leverage this to bring Game Pass to PlayStation platforms?
The Future of Game Pass
Microsoft’s desire to expand Game Pass to every gaming platform is clear. However, the likelihood of Japanese giants like Nintendo and Sony accepting this proposal remains uncertain. This strategic move could redefine the gaming landscape, but it’s a game of wait-and-see for now.
Microsoft’s ongoing mission to bring Xbox Game Pass to PlayStation and Nintendo marks a significant shift in the gaming industry. While the outcome of these efforts is yet to be seen, the implications for gamers and the industry are vast and exciting.
