Have you ever been super excited about a new game coming out, only to find out it will not be available on your favorite gaming console? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening with Elder Scrolls 6, a game that has gotten a lot of people excited about the future of gaming. Sadly, if you have a PlayStation 5 (PS5), you won’t be able to play it.
In 2020, Microsoft dropped a jaw-dropping $7.5 billion to acquire Bethesda Game Studios, the creative genius behind games like The Elder Scrolls and Fallout. This colossal purchase sent shockwaves through the gaming universe and gave Microsoft a powerful arsenal of games at its disposal.
A recently uncovered document from the Federal Trade Commission trial reveals that Elder Scrolls 6 will be exclusive to Xbox and PC, bypassing the PlayStation 5. The game’s release date is uncertain but expected in 2026 or later. This mirrors the exclusivity trend set by Bethesda’s recent titles.
From Microsoft's responses in the FTC vs Microsoft case. Elder Scrolls VI listed here as Xbox and PC and releasing 2026 or later.
During testimony at the hearing, Xbox's Phil Spencer went on to say the game was at least five years out and platforms were technically TBD pic.twitter.com/Kto9bE5U8C
— Stephen Totilo (@stephentotilo) September 18, 2023
Microsoft’s Elder Scrolls 6 Exclusivity: A Strategic Move
So, why did Microsoft decide to keep The Elder Scrolls 6 away from PS5 players? Well, it all comes down to strategy. When Microsoft acquired Bethesda it gained control over a treasure trove of gaming goodness and the company wants to use it to boost the Xbox ecosystem.
By making The Elder Scrolls 6 exclusive to Xbox and PC, Microsoft likely hopes to lure more gamers into the Xbox family. Exclusive titles have always been a surefire way to get gamers to adopt a specific platform.
In this case, Microsoft is banking on the allure of The Elder Scrolls 6 to tempt potential buyers into picking up an Xbox.
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Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service is also a potential reason for this battle of exclusiveness. Game Pass resembles a feast of games encompassing all the Bethesda classics. By choosing to release The Elder Scrolls 6 through Game Pass, Microsoft hopes to make this subscription more enticing.
As you can probably tell, the news about The Elder Scrolls 6 exclusivity to a platform has caused quite a commotion among gamers. PlayStation fans are disappointed because they won’t be able to enjoy this franchise, while Xbox and PC players are rejoicing over their access.
However, there are some individuals who believe this exclusivity agreement could ultimately result in a bad gaming experience.
So what does all of this mean for the future of gaming? Well, it’s evident that exclusive titles still hold importance in the console wars and these deals play a major role in that competition.
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It’s quite disappointing for PS5 players to hear the news that The Elder Scrolls 6 won’t be available, for them.
This situation highlights how the gaming industry is constantly evolving and undergoing changes. Exclusive agreements and strategic acquisitions are playing a role in shaping our gaming experiences.
As gamers, we will continue to encounter choices and challenges wherein exclusivity deals will have effects on our gaming journeys.
However, one thing is certain, we are eagerly awaiting the release of The Elder Scrolls 6 as it promises to have an impact on the competition among gaming consoles. So make sure your controllers are fully charged and your enthusiasm for gaming is at its peak!
What do you think of Microsoft’s decision based on the leaked FTC documents? Make sure to leave a comment and let us know your thoughts.
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