Original Xbox creator Seamus Blackley expresses concerns that Microsoft's AI strategy may sideline Xbox, questioning new leadership's impact on the gaming division.
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One of the creators of the original Xbox console has expressed skepticism about Microsoft's current direction for its gaming business. He believes the company's shift in focus toward artificial intelligence could gradually diminish the Xbox brand's significance.
In an interview with GamesBeat, Seamus Blackley stated that he does not view the appointment of Microsoft Gaming's new leadership as a positive signal for the gaming division. He thinks Xbox risks becoming merely a side project within the corporation's broader AI-focused strategy.
Blackley noted that Microsoft and its CEO Satya Nadella have been actively investing in artificial intelligence development for several years. He assessed that this directly influences internal priorities, suggesting that Xbox, like many other companies not directly tied to AI, is being phased out. While Microsoft doesn't openly state this, he believes that's what's happening. Blackley thinks the new CEO, Asha Sharma, will act like a palliative care doctor, gently guiding Xbox toward its sunset.
Although Asha Sharma previously stated the company does not intend to clutter its ecosystem with soulless artificial intelligence, Blackley doubts these words will translate into actual strategy. He's convinced that in the long term, Microsoft will seek to implement AI across all business areas, including gaming.
The developer expresses particular concern about the new leadership's professional experience, which is primarily tied to AI projects rather than the gaming industry. Blackley emphasizes that game creation involves a complex blend of technology and creativity, and generative tools cannot replace the human touch. He also questions why Microsoft would risk disrupting an established business model in an industry where the company already struggles to compete with Nintendo and PlayStation.
Meanwhile, Sharma herself publicly emphasizes the importance of hardware development and games from internal studios. She has spoken about renewing support for Xbox starting with the console, but parts of the gaming community remain wary of these promises. Rumors that the next Xbox might resemble a Windows PC and lack exclusives only fuel doubts about the brand's future.