Stellar Blade possibly won’t make the cut on Xbox. After Microsoft went under fire after a set of guidelines for game developers created by it went viral, gamers are worried the PS exclusive will not be ported to Xbox.
These guidelines, aimed at promoting inclusivity and representation, have stirred up a storm of controversy as people are concerned about MS stifling freedom of expression.
Is Microsoft Going to Pass on Stellar Blade?
After a screenshot of an MS page containing guidance for game developers went viral, users on X have expressed anger and frustration over its inclusion guidelines.
This is from Microsoft's new "Gaming for Everyone Product Inclusion Framework".
This is the song that doesn't end. It's been like 10 years and they're STILL complaining about video game boobs.https://t.co/9CsqNuEbnZ@Grummz @MadamSavvy pic.twitter.com/hb7HaWpfoz
— Lyle 🇹🇼👍 (@Lyde15) March 25, 2024
Many felt that these guidelines were an overreach of MS into the creative freedom of game developers.
Why can't they just let developers develop the game they want?
It's so hard to ask for that?
— Ayhsel Yami (@AyhselYami) March 26, 2024
Some users argue that this was an attempt at censorship by MS, interfering with the artistic vision of game creators. One felt that this was just one step in the company’s complete downfall.
Fully expect the great Microsoft closure/sell off in a year or two, and they wonder why no one is still buying their games after going quasi third party.
— Alan Baum (@Spoogymonkey) March 25, 2024
With MS’ suggestions contradicting a lot of what PS’ Stellar Blade stands for, there’s speculation that the game won’t make it to the Xbox.
If the game never makes it to the console, we wouldn’t even know for sure what the actual reasons could be unless either company made it public.
But, back to the issue: So, what exactly is going on, and why are people mad? Let’s take a look.
Microsoft’s Inclusion Guidelines: What’s the Fuss About?
The MS website has a Product Inclusion Resource Hub, where people can go to get advice and information about integrating or approaching their product development with a DEI mindset.
One page on the site included a set of questions and pointers for developers, encouraging them to consider different angles when developing their creations. These questions touch on various aspects, including character diversity, cultural representation, and gender equality within games.
The guidelines prompted developers to think critically about the stories they tell and the perspectives they share within their games. They encourage the inclusion of diverse characters and urge developers to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes or introducing unnecessary gender barriers.
It’s essential to clarify that these guidelines are not mandatory standards imposed by MS. Instead, they serve as suggestions for developers who wish to prioritize inclusivity and representation in their games. The information is intended for developers interested in incorporating these principles into their games.
The controversy surrounding MS’ inclusion guidelines highlights an ongoing debate within the gaming community about the role of diversity and representation in video games—just look at the Sweet Baby Inc. issue that’s consistently made headlines over the past few weeks.
As the gaming community grapples with these guidelines, it raises important questions about the balance between creative freedom and inclusivity in video game development.
What are your thoughts on MS’ initiative? Do you believe these guidelines are necessary for promoting diversity in gaming, or do they pose a threat to artistic freedom? Let us know in the comments below!
