Xbox closes the physical game launch category

Dedicated to debate with today XboxGiven that a rather unfortunate announcement was made, and it had to do with layoffs in the industry, especially with people there. Bethesda and his newly acquired company, Activision Blizzard King. And if that’s not enough, new news has emerged that can already be said to be predicted, and directly related to the distribution and marketing of video games in physical or traditional formats.

What is known as a journalist said Jez Corden, Microsoft The retailer is closing departments dedicated to carrying its games in stores, in what is believed to be a move to reduce some inventory within its business. Added to this is the issue that the next generation could be digital only according to a leak, but at the same time it could be a completely different plan which is being subtly hinted at.

Microsoft has also shut down divisions dedicated to bringing Xbox games to physical retail … which if you’ve seen digital-only Xbox console leaks … well, you can get an idea of ​​where Microsoft is going here.

— Jez (@jezcorden) January 25, 2024

However, the journalist himself clarified that this is a reduction of categories, we are not talking about a complete elimination, so perhaps it is about distribution categories that are no longer creating as much as in the past within the video game industry. Then, an examination can be made to see which ones manage to distribute well and only those who contribute really significant numbers can be kept to continue within this format or leave little by little.

Of course, it is emphasized again that many of the company’s community managers have been fired Microsoft, which can be a side effect of a less strong community, unless they have some backup plan for this vulnerable part. So, we have to wait for the new statements and see if finally there is a clear rationale for position genocide than just buying. Activision Blizzard.

Editor’s note: It’s a little surprising that Microsoft is taking the year with these strange practices that we assume must have a reason, but I don’t think they’re going bankrupt enough to let so many people go. We’re talking about 1,900 positions eliminated and one game canceled.