In an exclusive interview with Windows Central Managing Editor Jez Corden, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, delved into the future of Activision Blizzard, the revival of dormant franchises, and the exploration of nostalgic intellectual properties. While the focus of this blog post will be on the Activision-Blizzard portion of the interview, it's worth noting that the full article covers a wide range of topics, including Game Pass expansion, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and the future of PC game streaming.
Microsoft's Approach to Gaming
Microsoft has made a significant investment of over a billion dollars each year to support third-party games in their Game Pass service. This approach has resulted in a financially viable model that attracts games from both large studios with popular franchises and small independent developers looking to introduce their games to a wider audience. The strategy is focused on engaging players and keeping them invested in the platform, regardless of the type of games they enjoy.
Spencer expressed his enthusiasm for the potential of Activision Blizzard's back catalog of games. He highlighted the successes they've had with titles like "Pentiment" and "Hi-Fi Rush" and emphasized the financial viability of diverse business models. While Microsoft is excited about the possibilities, Spencer acknowledged that it's early days for the collaboration. They are currently engaged in discussions with fully staffed teams at Activision-Blizzard to determine the best way to move forward and ensure the teams are passionate about the projects they work on.
Spencer further reassured fans that Microsoft's interest in dormant franchises is not just about teasing them. He explained that teasing games without delivering would be counterproductive to building trust with the gaming community. While timelines may vary, when Phil Spencer teases something, he assures fans that there is substance behind it.
When it comes to reviving past games or bringing them to new platforms, Spencer emphasized the importance of finding the right team and opportunity. He does not believe in taking projects away from their original creators or excluding them from the development process. Learning from past experiences, Microsoft recognizes the value of maintaining the culture and vision of the original creators. While they haven't been able to touch every franchise that fans desire, Spencer expressed a keen interest in revisiting stories and characters when the conditions align.
Conclusion
The interview with Phil Spencer shed light on Microsoft Gaming's commitment to the future of Activision Blizzard, the revival of dormant franchises, and the exploration of nostalgic intellectual properties. As conversations continue and teams collaborate, gamers can look forward to exciting possibilities that merge the rich history of these franchises with Microsoft's resources and passion for gaming.
