Exclusives are part of the competitive process via which we should all win. Basic economics.
The reason why people are getting so upset about this – why exclusivity and competition have become dirty words for many gamers – is because of Microsoft’s ineptitude.
Brand A give you something exclusive, Brand B hits back with something amazing, Brand C hits you with something amazing, Brand A ups their game, Brand B ups their game, Brand C ups their game, etc. etc..
But when Sony and Nintendo hit Xbox with amazing exclusives, Microsoft rarely even tried to hit back. When they did try, it was half-assed and weak. They acted completely irrational and lazy this gen. It boggles the mind.
Sony and Nintendo didn’t need to put half of the effort they have this gen. Even with them at quarter-strength, Microsoft would have looked weaker.
Xbox has simply offered very, very little that inspires envy in owners of competing products. And so, for Xbox owners, the grass looks permanently greener in everyone else’s yard.
And that’s the only reason why everyone is so mind-meltingly upset about competition and exclusivity these days.
Here’s hoping Microsoft really up their game with the Series X. The potential is there. The money is there. I honestly don’t know what they thought they were doing over the last few years, but I hope they’re ready this gen. When all three bring their A-game, we all win.
