Former PlayStation Chief Sees Dreamcast Signs in Xbox’s Recent Moves
Sophie Laurent 
Key Takeaways
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- Microsoft, like Sega in the past, is considering a shift from console manufacturing to a more software-centric approach due to challenges in regaining market share with Xbox hardware.
- The success of games like Indiana Jones and Forza Horizon 5 on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, suggests a potential move towards multiplatform releases for Microsoft.
- Despite this trend, Microsofts President Sarah Bond has emphasized that the next generation will mark a significant leap in Xbox hardware capabilities.
- The company is also aiming to integrate Xbox and Windows more closely, which could allow them to maintain a presence in hardware while expanding their focus on software and services.
Crossroads Anew? Microsoft’s Shift to Software Strategy Reminiscent of Sega’s Past Transition
Shawn Layden suggests Microsoft stands at a crossroads akin to Sega’s past transition from console manufacturing to a software-centric approach, arguing Xbox hardware lacks the strength to reclaim lost market share. This perspective aligns with Xbox’s recent “play everywhere” initiative, which involves releasing titles initially exclusive to Xbox on rival hardware. For example, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Forza Horizon 5 launched on PlayStation 5 in spring, quickly proving popular. Forza Horizon 5, for instance, notably topped download charts in the US and Canada on the PlayStation Store and appeared in European charts, indicating significant demand outside Xbox’s traditional ecosystem. While these releases do not definitively confirm a complete multiplatform pivot for Microsoft, their commercial success reinforces Layden’s reasoning that improving sales figures can make opening a catalog more tempting. However, a complete pivot away from hardware is not yet certain. Xbox President Sarah Bond has promised the upcoming generation will mark “the biggest leap between generations.” Simultaneously, Microsoft has been discussing a less console-bound ecosystem, aiming to integrate Xbox and Windows more closely. This strategy allows the company to maintain a foothold in hardware while expanding its focus on software and services.
Emerging Path Ahead? Microsoft’s Next-Gen Plans and Potential Shift to Software Strategy
Ultimately, Layden’s comparison represents his individual assessment. Whether this situation foreshadows a Sega-like, software-focused future or is simply a strategic brand expansion remains to be seen until Microsoft officially unveils its next-generation plans.
In Case You Missed It
If you’re looking for some gaming inspiration this weekend, be sure to check out Sophie Laurent’s latest post, “What Game Are You Playing This Weekend?” published on August 16, 2025. She invites everyone to share their upcoming gaming adventures—be it a nostalgic journey through retro titles or an exhilarating multiplayer competition—and highlights the vibrant community spirit within Eurogamer Portugal where players come together to swap tips and tales. Dive into her blog to see how others are planning to spend their game time What Game Are You Playing This Weekend?! For all you PlayStation enthusiasts out there, Jonathan Dubinski’s latest piece is a must-read. Published on August 17th, “PlayStation Plus Catalog to Lose Two of Its Best Games” highlights the upcoming changes in the PS+ Extra and Premium catalog as Sony prepares for new arrivals on August 19th. From fan favorites like Spider-Man and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt to thrilling titles such as Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, players will want to jump into these games before they depart. Don’t miss out—check it out here PlayStation Plus Catalog to Lose Two of Its Best Games! For all you basketball gaming enthusiasts out there, Carlos Mendoza delves into the exciting world of NBA 2K26 in his latest piece from August 17th. He highlights how the game is taking a groundbreaking step by allowing NBA and WNBA athletes to share the court in MyTeam mode for the first time since NBA 2K20. This innovative feature promises an unprecedented level of customization and gameplay balance, making it possible to dream up unique team combinations like Angel Reese alongside Shaquille O’Neal or Caytlin Clark with Stephen Curry. Don’t miss out on this exciting new era in basketball gaming—check it out here NBA 2K26 Brings NBA and WNBA Athletes to Share the Same Court.
About the Author
Carlos Mendoza 
Ahmed Hassan 
Jonathan Dubinski 
Bruno Pferd 
