Phil Spencer on the Importance of Smaller Games Beyond Live Service Models

Phil Spencer has addressed the trend of live service games in the gaming industry, stating:

“Allow us to also support games that have a beginning, middle, and end.”

He noted that while many developers are leaning towards the live service model, it doesn’t suit every game or story. Spencer, along with other developers, believes that there is significant value in games that deliver complete narratives instead of sprawling, service-based experiences. His comments arise against the backdrop of Xbox’s portfolio that includes both major live service titles and promising single-player engagements.

Spencer remarked:

“I didn’t want to see every game turn into some big service based game… Not every story is told in that way.”

He highlighted the importance of delivering unique story experiences and cited successful smaller projects in development. Spencer’s views echo sentiments from various creators in the field, including Hazelight’s Josef Fares, who firmly stated his intent never to engage in the live service model.

As the conversation around live services continues, Spencer reassures fans that Xbox aims to support diverse gaming experiences, not just those reliant on ongoing monetization.