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Since Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda in 2021 for a whopping $7.5 billion, the gaming community has been abuzz with speculation about the future availability of Bethesda games on platforms other than Xbox. One of the most anticipated titles, Starfield, initially launched as an Xbox exclusive, has been at the center of these discussions. Will PlayStation enthusiasts have the opportunity to explore Bethesda’s expansive universe on their PS5 consoles? Here’s what we know so far about the potential PS5 release of Starfield.
As of now, Starfield remains an Xbox exclusive, much to the dismay of PlayStation users. The game, which marks one of Bethesda’s largest launches, debuted exclusively on Xbox and PC platforms in 2023. This strategy aligns with Microsoft’s focus on bolstering its console sales and Game Pass subscriptions by keeping pivotal titles like Starfield within its ecosystem.
However, recent statements from Xbox executives suggest that the door isn’t completely closed on the possibility of Starfield gracing other platforms. Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, mentioned in an interview with The Verge that while there’s no immediate plan to bring more Bethesda games to other platforms, the industry should “never rule out a game going to any other platform.” This statement has reignited hopes among the PlayStation community for a potential Starfield release on PS5.
Earlier this year, rumors began circulating about Microsoft’s potential shift in strategy, which could include bringing Xbox exclusives like Starfield to other platforms. Although Microsoft confirmed that only a select few games, such as Pentiment and Hi-Fi Rush, are set to cross over to other systems, the speculation around Starfield continues to thrive.
Insider sources cited by XboxEra suggest that Starfield is indeed planned for a PS5 release, potentially following the launch of its upcoming expansion, Shattered Space, slated for late 2024. While these reports provide a glimmer of hope, they remain unconfirmed, and plans could change as development progresses.
The decision to launch Starfield exclusively on Xbox platforms was not made lightly. During the legal proceedings concerning Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, it was revealed that part of the motivation behind purchasing Bethesda was to prevent Starfield from becoming a PlayStation exclusive. This strategic move was aimed at strengthening Xbox’s position in the console market, especially given the competitive deals Sony had secured with Bethesda for other titles like Deathloop and Ghostwire.
Microsoft’s internal documents suggested that Starfield had a significant sales forecast on PlayStation platforms. By shifting the game to be an Xbox exclusive, Microsoft aimed to compensate for potential revenue losses through increased Game Pass subscriptions and Xbox console sales.
The gaming landscape is ever-evolving, and the potential for Starfield to land on PS5 remains a topic of intense interest and speculation. As the market dynamics shift and new strategies are considered, the possibility of experiencing Starfield on PlayStation becomes more plausible. Gamers and industry watchers alike are advised to stay tuned for official announcements and updates, which could shed more light on the future of this highly anticipated game on PS5.