Xbox chief Phil Spencer shared insights on the decision to bring Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, previously an Xbox exclusive, to Sony’s PlayStation 5, highlighting its alignment with the company’s strategic vision.

Xbox Outlines Strategy for Indiana Jones PS5 Release

Multiplatform Approach Supports Xbox’s Business Objectives

At Gamescom 2024, Bethesda revealed that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, initially exclusive to Xbox and PC, will launch on PlayStation 5 in spring 2025. During a press event, Xbox leader Phil Spencer explained that expanding the game to other platforms is a calculated step that supports Xbox’s broader goals. He emphasized that this move strengthens the brand while meeting Microsoft’s high expectations for delivering value.

In an interview, Spencer elaborated, stating that Xbox operates as a business with significant support from Microsoft. “The expectations are high for us to deliver,” he said, noting that Xbox is focused on learning from past experiences and adapting. “We’ve seen success with multiplatform releases, and we’re building on that.”

Spencer highlighted Xbox’s strong performance, with record-high console player numbers and thriving franchises. “Our player base is growing, and our franchises are stronger than ever,” he said, referencing earlier multiplatform releases like four titles launched on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch last spring. He affirmed Xbox’s commitment to evolving based on market feedback.

“Our franchises are gaining strength, and our console player numbers are at an all-time high,” Spencer noted, underscoring the business rationale behind the decision. He emphasized that Xbox’s focus remains on delivering robust gaming experiences.

Spencer also addressed industry challenges, noting that growth in gaming requires adaptation. “The industry is under pressure, and we must anticipate change. Our goal is to create better games that reach more players,” he said, stressing that Xbox prioritizes platform health and game quality over outdated distribution models.

FTC Reveals Indiana Jones Was Initially Planned for Multiplatform

Rumors of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle going multiplatform circulated before its official confirmation, marking it as a significant Xbox title to join PlayStation 5. Earlier this year, speculation about Xbox exclusives expanding to other platforms intensified, though Spencer previously stated that major titles like Indiana Jones and Starfield would remain exclusive. The PS5 release signals a shift, following other titles like Doom: The Dark Ages.

The multiplatform decision traces back to Microsoft’s 2020 acquisition of Bethesda’s parent company, ZeniMax Media. During the 2023 FTC trial over Xbox’s Activision acquisition, Bethesda’s Pete Hines disclosed that Disney had initially agreed with ZeniMax to develop Indiana Jones for multiple platforms. Post-acquisition, the deal was revised for Xbox and PC exclusivity. The recent pivot to include PS5 reflects Xbox’s evolving strategy.

Internal 2021 emails revealed Xbox executives, including Spencer, debating the exclusivity of Indiana Jones. While exclusivity offered some advantages, Spencer acknowledged it could limit Bethesda’s overall reach, influencing the decision to pursue a broader release strategy.