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Xbox Says Its Competition Is TikTok and Movies as Halo Heads to PS5

Profit pressure drives a multiplatform pivot reinforced by recent price hikes.

Overview

  • Studios chief Matt Booty said Xbox is competing for attention with platforms like TikTok and movies rather than with rival consoles.
  • Halo: Campaign Evolved will launch on PS5 next year, marking the franchise’s first appearance on PlayStation.
  • Microsoft has broadened releases beyond Xbox, with former exclusives such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Forza Horizon 5, and Gears of War: Reloaded reaching other platforms.
  • Bloomberg reporting describes expectations for profit margins above industry norms, aligning with Microsoft’s 50% hike to Game Pass Ultimate and two Xbox console price increases this year.
  • Booty acknowledged layoffs earlier this year that reportedly affected around 9,000 employees, alongside canceled projects and the closure of The Initiative.