- Microsoft plans to revive and expand its own game franchises rather than relying on third-party licenses.
- Licensing agreements can limit the availability of games and complicate content preservation and streaming.
- Phil Spencer is a big fan of the idea that he can revisit classic IPs.
Phil Spencer has once again reiterated his focus on using Xbox’s own game franchises instead of relying on third-party licensed titles. During an interview with Game File, Spencer discussed his plan to bring back classic Xbox games.
With the addition of Activision Blizzard’s popular franchises to Microsoft, this is now more achievable. While this idea isn’t new, the stronger support and available resources make it a more realistic goal for Microsoft.
Why it matters: The focus on first-party IPs shows that Microsoft aims to revive older franchises and possibly bring them into Xbox Game Pass.
When asked about his views on licensed titles, Phil Spencer shared his thoughts:
I’m not the biggest fan [of making licensed games]. I’m a big fan of us using the IP that we haven’t even revisited.
-Phil Spencer
While Xbox has managed to bring some older franchises back with remakes or remasters, Spencer admitted that the company hasn’t yet mastered the art of reviving its IPs.
Microsoft’s acquisition strategy has given it access to a vast array of first-party IPs that remain underutilized. Following the merger, Activision’s CEO also hinted at several remakes of classic titles.
On the other hand, Spencer often stokes fan excitement by wearing t-shirts that reference classic franchises, especially during public events like the Xbox TGS 2024 live broadcast.
Xbox’s CEO also pointed out the complications that are present with licensed games, especially concerning content preservation and streaming. Companies face a lot of challenges when licensing agreements expire.
One of the main downsides of relying on licensed games is that licensing deals can limit how long a game stays available on platforms like Xbox Game Pass. For instance, racing games often get removed when licenses for cars, tracks, or music expire, like the Crew.
Although Spencer is generally cautious about licensed games, he expressed positive views about Microsoft’s current partnerships with Disney. Two big licensed games in the works are Bethesda’s MachineGames-developed Indiana Jones and Marvel’s Blade from Arkane Lyon, both based on popular Disney-owned franchises.
Which classic title would you like to see remade? Comment down below or join the conversation on the Tech4Gamers Forum.
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