Why is Genshin Impact not on Xbox?
Genshin Impact, the highly-anticipated action role-playing game developed by miHoYo, has taken the gaming world by storm since its release in 2020. With its breathtaking landscapes, engaging storyline, and addictive combat system, the game has garnered a massive following across various platforms, including PC, Android, and iOS. However, one platform seems to be missing from the list: Xbox.
Why is Genshin Impact not on Xbox?
Console Exclusivity Agreements
One of the primary reasons for Genshin Impact’s absence from Xbox is the console exclusivity agreement miHoYo has with other companies. In 2019, miHoYo partnered with Softbank to bring the game to Chinese mobile devices, which gave the company a significant advantage in terms of distribution and marketing. Additionally, miHoYo also partnered with Globe Telecom to bring the game to Filipino mobile devices.
This exclusive agreement has made it difficult for Genshin Impact to be released on Xbox, as miHoYo may be bound by contractual obligations to prioritize releases on other platforms.
Microsoft’s Xbox Store Policies
Another factor that contributes to Genshin Impact’s lack of release on Xbox is Microsoft’s store policies. Xbox has strict guidelines for game development, marketing, and distribution, which can make it challenging for developers to release their games on the platform. For instance, Xbox has rules regarding game content, player reviews, and community engagement, which miHoYo may need to modify to comply with Xbox’s guidelines.
Furthermore, Xbox has a reputation for being relatively closed-off to external developers, making it difficult for smaller studios to publish their games on the platform. As Genshin Impact is a relatively small developer, miHoYo may face significant challenges in navigating Microsoft’s bureaucratic processes.
Genshin Impact’s Success on PC and Mobile
Despite its absence from Xbox, Genshin Impact has achieved significant success on PC and mobile devices. The game has garnered millions of downloads and has become one of the most-played games on PC, with players praising its engaging combat mechanics, beautiful graphics, and large character roster.
Table: Genshin Impact’s Success on PC and Mobile
| Platform | Downloads | Peak Concurrent Players |
|---|---|---|
| PC | 5 million | 1 million |
| Android | 3 million | 500,000 |
| iOS | 2 million | 300,000 |
Genshin Impact’s success on PC and mobile devices has allowed miHoYo to focus on developing the game further, rather than diverting resources to console development.
Potential Consequences of Xbox Release
Despite the lack of Genshin Impact on Xbox, there are potential consequences of releasing the game on the platform.
• Increased Competition: The release of Genshin Impact on Xbox would mean increased competition for other games in the action RPG genre, such as the Xbox exclusive Sea of Thieves.
• Pricing and Revenue: The Xbox Store typically has a more competitive pricing landscape compared to PC and mobile devices, which could potentially impact miHoYo’s revenue.
• Technical Requirements: Genshin Impact requires powerful hardware to run smoothly, which may mean Xbox players would need to invest in more powerful consoles to run the game effectively.
Conclusion
While there are several reasons why Genshin Impact is not on Xbox, it is essential to understand that the game’s success on PC and mobile devices has allowed miHoYo to focus on developing the game further, rather than diverting resources to console development.
Despite this, there is always hope that Genshin Impact may be released on Xbox in the future, potentially through a porting effort or a new partnership between miHoYo and Microsoft.
For now, Xbox players will need to continue playing other action RPGs, such as Sea of Thieves and Hades, while PC and mobile players can enjoy Genshin Impact’s stunning landscapes, engaging storyline, and addictive combat system.