Phantom Blade Zero devs set the record straight on Xbox quote

S-GAME Clarifies Remarks on Xbox Following ChinaJoy 2024 Controversy

Following reports from ChinaJoy 2024, S-GAME, the developer behind Phantom Blade Zero and Black Myth: Wukong, has addressed a controversial statement attributed to an anonymous source. Several news outlets reported on comments allegedly made by a Phantom Blade Zero developer expressing negative sentiment towards the Xbox platform.

The Misquote and its Fallout

The initial report, originating from a Chinese news outlet and subsequently translated by fans, suggested a lack of interest in Xbox. This was misinterpreted and amplified by some international outlets, with one translating the sentiment as "nobody needs Xbox," significantly escalating the situation. S-GAME's statement on Twitter(X) directly counters these interpretations.

The statement emphasizes S-GAME's commitment to broad accessibility for Phantom Blade Zero, explicitly stating that the reported comments don't reflect their company values. They affirmed their dedication to releasing the game on multiple platforms, leaving the door open for an Xbox release.

Xbox's Market Position in Asia

While S-GAME didn't confirm or deny the anonymous source, their statement acknowledges the reality of Xbox's comparatively lower market share in Asia compared to PlayStation and Nintendo. The limited availability and retail support for Xbox in certain Asian regions further contribute to this market disparity.

Exclusive Deal Rumors Debunked

Speculation regarding an exclusive deal between S-GAME and Sony intensified following the controversy. While S-GAME previously acknowledged Sony's support for development and marketing, they have explicitly denied any exclusive partnership agreement. Their Summer 2024 update confirmed plans for a PC release alongside the PlayStation 5 version.

In conclusion, while the origin of the initial statement remains unclear, S-GAME's official response clarifies their intentions. Although an Xbox release isn't confirmed, the possibility remains open, suggesting the controversy may have been fueled by misinterpretations and exaggerations.