In the wake of acquiring Activision Blizzard and Bethesda, alongside its existing Xbox Game Studios, Microsoft has become a powerhouse in game publishing. The company is currently nurturing several high-profile titles that have been in development for years, including Rare’s Everwild, Undead Labs’ State of Decay 3, and an upcoming project from Double Fine Productions. Despite concerns over prolonged development times, Microsoft Gaming head Phil Spencer reassures fans that the company’s expansive resources allow for meticulous refinement. With a robust lineup planned for 2025, Microsoft remains unrushed, prioritizing quality over haste.

Embracing Time for Perfection

Spencer emphasizes that Microsoft’s vast scale as a publisher provides the luxury of time for developers to perfect their games. This approach ensures that each title meets the company’s high standards before release. He specifically highlighted his excitement for State of Decay 3, Everwild, and Double Fine’s next venture, all of which have faced extended development cycles. Spencer acknowledges the long silences surrounding these projects but affirms that giving teams ample time leads to better outcomes.

Spencer’s confidence stems from the company’s ability to balance multiple projects simultaneously. By providing studios with the necessary time and resources, Microsoft can foster innovation and creativity. For instance, Rare’s Everwild has seen significant progress recently, and Spencer’s visit to the studio revealed promising developments. Similarly, Undead Labs continues to refine State of Decay 3, ensuring it lives up to fan expectations. Spencer also praised Double Fine’s collaborative approach, noting how Tim Schafer solicits feedback from the team to enhance the game’s design. This methodical process reflects Microsoft’s commitment to delivering exceptional gaming experiences.

A Look Ahead: Exciting Titles on the Horizon

While some projects are taking longer than anticipated, Microsoft’s 2025 schedule is already packed with highly anticipated releases. Titles such as Obsidian’s Avowed and The Outer Worlds 2, id Software’s Doom: The Dark Ages, Compulsion Games’ South of Midnight, Playground Games’ Fable, Team Ninja and PlatinumGames’ Ninja Gaiden 4, and a new Call of Duty entry promise to keep gamers engaged. This diverse portfolio showcases Microsoft’s strategic planning and foresight in managing its development pipeline.

Spencer also hinted at another long-awaited title, Gears of War: E-Day, developed by The Coalition. The last Gears game was released in 2019, making this upcoming installment particularly exciting for fans. Spencer expressed his enthusiasm about visiting the studio, describing it as a highlight of his job. His hands-on involvement underscores Microsoft’s dedication to supporting its development teams and ensuring that every game reaches its full potential. This balanced approach between patience and ambition sets the stage for a thrilling future in gaming.