Former Blizzard president worried about future of Xbox and says changes are needed “fast”

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Although Xbox aims to launch its upcoming portable device along with numerous new titles, some industry experts, even ex-executives from the company, are uncertain about their chosen path.

When Microsoft’s Xbox unveiled its handheld device and hinted at the console’s future developments, enthusiasts became incredibly excited. Many are already eagerly awaiting the ROG Xbox Ally and the imminent launch of The Outer Worlds 2, Gears of War: Reloaded, High on Life 2, as well as titles like Fable and Elder Scrolls 6 that will be released after 2025.

Instead, Mike Ybarra, who was previously the President of Blizzard and now serves as Vice President at Microsoft/Xbox, voiced his apprehensions about the future direction of the brand on social media platform X.

Ex-Blizzard president “confused” about Xbox’s future

In a recent post, Ybarra expressed his viewpoint, saying, “It’s challenging to watch the new Xbox handheld struggling with its identity.” This comment was in response to the ongoing debates among original Xbox creators about the direction of the upcoming device.

There are still some remarkable individuals there, they need to swiftly identify what needs adjustment… I’m a devoted fan, always rooting for them from the sidelines. Ybarra emphasized his loyalty towards the console, expressing both his admiration and apprehensions at the same time.

The user suggested that Microsoft should clarify the identity of the Xbox brand if it wants to continue thriving beyond consoles. In other words, they believe it’s necessary for Microsoft to redefine what Xbox truly represents. To this idea, Ybarra replied straightforwardly, stating that he sees Xbox aiming to become the world’s leading publisher of entertainment content.

Simplify your surroundings, concentrate fully. Don’t hesitate to express who you truly are. Be confident in the path you’ve chosen.

To make things clearer, he elaborated that Xbox’s niche lies in its dual role as an outstanding gaming console and the world’s leading provider of entertainment content. In another post, he further expounded: “If you ask someone on the street what Xbox is, 99% of the time they will say a video game console. That’s its identity. Full stop.

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2025-06-30 17:48