New Xbox Boss Says ‘Hear You’ When Asked To Bring Back Exclusives

Kotaku

by Ethan Gach

February 21, 2026

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New Xbox Boss Says ‘Hear You’ When Asked To Bring Back Exclusives

Asha Sharma, the newly appointed head of Xbox, has expressed her commitment to listening to gamers' concerns about the future of exclusive games on the platform. Speaking at a press conference, Sharma emphasized that while Microsoft's strategy involves bringing more titles to multiple platforms, she hears the fans and understands their desire for unique content that sets Xbox apart. Her remarks aim to reassure the gaming community that exclusives remain a priority, though the approach may evolve under her leadership. The discussion around exclusives is not new for Microsoft. Historically, the company has leveraged exclusives like *Halo* and *Forza Horizon* to differentiate its consoles. However, in recent years, there has been a shift toward making some titles available on other platforms, such as *Elden Ring*. This strategy has sparked debates among gamers and developers about whether it dilutes the Xbox brand and impacts the platform's unique identity. Sharma’s message is particularly significant for both gamers and developers. Gamers value exclusives because they often represent high-quality experiences that justify owning a specific console. Developers, on the other hand, are drawn to the stability and long-term support that exclusive deals can offer. By addressing these concerns directly, Sharma signals an intention to balance accessibility with what makes Xbox unique. However, challenges remain. The gaming landscape is increasingly competitive, with platforms like PlayStation and PC offering their own exclusives and cross-platform play. Sharma’s ability to navigate this terrain while maintaining Xbox’s identity

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Originally published on Kotaku on 2/21/2026