As part of its new strategy focusing on cloud streaming, and the ability to play anywhere even without a console, Xbox has taken another bold step by launching on Amazon Fire TV.
This move seems to be another strategy that is very different from PlayStation’s, which still focuses on first and third-party exclusives. However, it could have unforeseen consequences that might come back to bite Microsoft.
Xbox Expands Its Horizons to Other Types of Users
Starting this July, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can play games directly on Fire TV devices via cloud gaming, removing the need for a physical console. However, while this strategy enhances accessibility and broadens the market, it could also pose some risks for Microsoft.
It’s always nice having options.
Let’s hope their abundance doesn’t overshadow the console 🙏🏼
— SE🔻EN (@The_VII_KWT) July 8, 2024
By focusing on cloud gaming and device flexibility, Microsoft might alienate some traditional game developers who prefer focusing on console-exclusive experiences. The publisher has been on a roll with its Summer Showcase, and upcoming exclusives such as Avowed and Indiana Jones.
I'm sure this won't lead to even more games skipping Xbox, am I right?
— Noir 浮世 (@madcap412) July 8, 2024
The recent tweet about the Amazon launch is just the latest example of its aggressive strategy. By expanding its availability, Xbox is making it easier for gamers to access their consoles and services, including the popular Game Pass. With this move, it is promoting the ability to be a part of the Xbox ecosystem without even owning the console.
It has a strong lineup of day-one Game Pass exclusives for 2024 such as the aforementioned titles, which are generating a lot of buzz and have fans excited, especially since PlayStation doesn’t have any major first-party exclusives for the second half of this year, except for Astro Bot.
This impressive lineup is likely to attract more gamers to Xbox, especially those that only deal with cloud gaming, giving it a significant edge over PlayStation. Game Pass also continues to be a major draw, offering a wide range of games at a reasonable price, making it a compelling option for many.
The Possible Downside of Game Pass on Fire TV
However, not everything is smooth sailing for the company. While expanding to Amazon TV opens up more opportunities, it also brings some challenges. One major issue is that some game developers are hesitant to support Xbox’s widespread approach.
They feel like the quality of cloud gaming and game streaming still isn’t good enough, and not widely available, especially at lag-less speeds. This could affect the gaming experience, and lead to users having a bad experience with their game.
This could turn away certain developers and publishers from putting their games on Game Pass. Moreover, PlayStation, despite its current struggles, isn’t out of the game yet. Sony has been focusing on its strong suit which is high-quality exclusives.
These exclusives have always been a major selling point for PlayStation, and Sony isn’t focusing much on cloud gaming right now. Xbox’s move to launch on Fire TV is a double-edged sword. It certainly boosts their market presence but also risks alienating some game developers, which could impact the variety and quality of games on Game Pass.
What do you think of Game Pass coming to Fire TV? Let us know in the comments.
