PlayStation Considers Making PS5 Games Multiplatform to Boost Profits, Says Interim Boss
Sony’s interim boss at PlayStation, Hiroki Totoki, has expressed his intention to be “aggressive” in improving the company’s margins by making PS5 games available on multiple platforms. This move comes as rumors circulate about a potential multiplatform future for Xbox, indicating that Sony is considering a similar strategy.
During a Q&A session for Sony’s Q3 2023 earnings call, Totoki, who is currently the chairman of the gaming division following Jim Ryan’s retirement, discussed his plans to increase profits by expanding the availability of first-party games on other platforms. He emphasized the synergy between strong first-party content and multiple platforms, stating that it can help improve operating profit.
Sony already has a successful track record of releasing PC versions of PlayStation titles, including popular games like The Last Of Us, Death Stranding, and the upcoming Horizon Forbidden West. This suggests that the expansion to other platforms could involve more simultaneous launches across PlayStation and PC.
One recent example that supports this strategy is the release of Helldivers 2, published by Sony, which exceeded expectations through a multiplatform release strategy. The game sold around a million copies in less than a week, according to developer Arrowhead. This success could be an encouraging sign for Sony to further explore multiplatform releases.
However, this strategy might also be an attempt to compensate for the lack of first-party exclusives on the horizon. Totoki stated that there are no plans to release new titles from major existing PlayStation franchises in the next year. Therefore, expanding to other platforms could help maintain interest and revenue during this period.
While Sony’s approach may differ from Microsoft’s Xbox strategy, it seems that the industry as a whole is moving towards a more accessible, multi-platform future. This shift raises concerns for Sony, as selling first-party games on other formats may reduce the incentive for consumers to purchase a PlayStation console, which is the primary reason for format exclusives.
Currently, PlayStation outsells Xbox, but with each new generation, the competition resets. The erosion of format exclusives makes the console business inherently more unstable for manufacturers, even with persistent digital ecosystems that help retain customers.
In conclusion, Sony’s consideration of making PS5 games multiplatform reflects a strategic move to improve profit margins and adapt to the changing landscape of the gaming industry. While this approach may have its risks, it also presents opportunities for broader accessibility and increased revenue. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Sony navigates this new territory while maintaining its position as a leading console manufacturer.
