Xbox Backlash: Phantom Blade Zero Devs Clarify Misquote

S-GAME Clarifies Controversial "Nobody Needs Xbox" Statement Regarding Phantom Blade Zero

Following reports stemming from ChinaJoy 2024, S-GAME, the developers behind Phantom Blade Zero and Black Myth: Wukong, have addressed a controversial statement attributed to an anonymous source. Multiple media outlets initially reported that a Phantom Blade Zero developer had made disparaging remarks about the Xbox platform.

The initial reports, fueled by a translation of a statement from a Chinese news outlet, suggested a lack of interest in Xbox in the Asian market. Some outlets, like Aroged, highlighted Xbox's relatively low market share in Asia, while others, such as Gameplay Cassi, misinterpreted the statement as a more direct dismissal of the platform.

S-GAME's official statement on Twitter(X) refutes the notion that the alleged comments reflect their company's position. The statement emphasizes S-GAME's commitment to broad accessibility, explicitly stating that no platforms have been excluded for Phantom Blade Zero. They are actively pursuing both development and publishing strategies to maximize the game's reach.

While S-GAME doesn't directly confirm or deny the anonymous source, the underlying sentiment regarding Xbox's limited presence in Asia holds some truth. Sales figures in regions like Japan demonstrate a significant disparity between Xbox and PlayStation market share. Furthermore, limited retail availability in many parts of Southeast Asia has historically hindered Xbox's growth.

Speculation regarding an exclusive deal with Sony, fueled by previous comments about Sony's support, has also been addressed. S-GAME has denied any exclusive partnership, reiterating their plans for a PC release alongside the PlayStation 5 version.

Although an Xbox release remains unconfirmed, S-GAME's statement leaves open the possibility of Phantom Blade Zero eventually launching on the platform. The controversy highlights the complexities of international game publishing and the challenges faced by platforms seeking to expand their market share in diverse regions.