Xbox Dominates as Top Publisher on PlayStation
Xbox revenue grows 5%, becoming the biggest publisher on PlayStation with hits like Call of Duty and Indiana Jones driving sales.
Microsoft Xbox has made waves in the gaming industry, achieving a remarkable 5% revenue growth in Q3 2025. This success stems from its bold strategy to release first-party titles on rival platforms, notably PlayStation. Games like Call of Duty, Minecraft, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle have fueled this growth, positioning Xbox as the top publisher on both Xbox and PlayStation stores for pre-orders and pre-installs.
Xbox Multiplatform Strategy Pays Off
Xbox shift to a multiplatform approach has proven lucrative. By bringing blockbuster titles to PlayStation, Xbox has tapped into a massive audience. In December 2024, 64% of Xbox game revenue came from PlayStation consoles, with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 leading the charge. This move has not only boosted revenue but also expanded Xbox reach to over 500 million monthly active users across platforms.
Key Titles Driving Success
Games like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Forza Horizon 5 have resonated with PlayStation players. DOOM: The Dark Ages, set for a day-one PS5 release, further cements Xbox dominance. These titles, combined with the enduring popularity of Call of Duty and Minecraft, have made Xbox a powerhouse in the gaming market.
Game Pass and Cloud Gaming Surge
Xbox Game Pass has been a cornerstone of this growth, with PC Game Pass revenue soaring 45% year-over-year. Cloud gaming also hit a new milestone, surpassing 150 million hours played in Q3 2025. These services highlight Xbox focus on accessibility, allowing players to enjoy games across consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
Challenges in Hardware Sales
Despite software success, Xbox hardware sales dipped 6% in the same period. Console sales have lagged behind competitors like the PlayStation 5, which outsold Xbox Series X/S by a wide margin. To counter this, Xbox is exploring new hardware, including a potential handheld device and a next-gen console touted as a major technological leap.
Xbox multiplatform strategy and focus on services like Game Pass signal a shift from traditional console wars to a broader gaming ecosystem. Rumors suggest Xbox titles may soon appear on Nintendo Switch 2, further expanding its reach. As Xbox continues to innovate, its influence in gaming is undeniable, even on rival platforms.
