In a recent series of interviews and articles, the gaming community has been abuzz with discussions surrounding the future of Xbox under the leadership of Microsoft’s new Gaming CEO, Asha Sharma. The departure of Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond, along with the appointment of Sharma, has sparked debates about the direction Xbox is heading in and the role of AI in shaping the gaming industry.
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Seamus Blackley, the co-creator of the original Xbox, shared his thoughts on Sharma’s appointment, suggesting that Xbox may be “sunsetted” as Microsoft shifts its focus towards AI. Blackley’s comments have raised concerns among gamers and industry insiders about the potential impact of this shift on the Xbox brand and its loyal fanbase.
Blackley’s belief that Sharma’s role is to gently usher Xbox into the realm of AI has sparked a mix of reactions from the gaming community. While some are skeptical about the future of Xbox under Sharma’s leadership, others are hopeful that she will bring a fresh perspective to the gaming industry.
In response to Blackley’s comments, industry analyst Rhys Elliott proposed that Xbox should be spun off from Microsoft to allow it to thrive as a standalone entity. Elliott highlighted Xbox’s valuable IP and the potential benefits of separating it from Microsoft’s other business areas.
The discussions around Xbox’s future and the role of AI in gaming have raised important questions about the cultural, ethical, and business implications of these developments. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for developers, publishers, and players to navigate these changes thoughtfully and responsibly.
Overall, the conversations sparked by Blackley, Elliott, and other industry insiders offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Xbox in the age of AI. As Sharma takes the helm at Xbox, all eyes will be on her to see how she navigates the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.
#NexSouk #AIForGood #EthicalAI #GamingIndustryInsights #XboxFuture
References:
1. Xbox Creator Reveals His Two Tips For The New Microsoft Gaming CEO – [https://www.purexbox.com/news/2026/02/xbox-creator-reveals-his-two-tips-for-the-new-microsoft-gaming-ceo]
2. Xbox Co-Founder Believes it ‘is Being Sunsetted’ as Microsoft Focuses on AI – [https://www.vgchartz.com/article/467107/xbox-co-founder-believes-it-is-being-sunsetted-as-microsoft-focuses-on-ai/]
3. Xbox Co-Creator Speaks On New CEO Asha Sharma – [https://www.thegamer.com/xbox-co-creator-new-ceo-opinion-brand-sunset/]
4. Original Xbox creator thinks console is dead after Asha Sharma becomes CEO – [https://www.escapistmagazine.com/news-asha-sharma-xbox-death-prediction/]
5. Xbox Should Be Spun Off From Microsoft, Expert Says – [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xbox-should-be-spun-off-from-microsoft-expert-says/1100-6538398/?ftag=CAD-01-10abi2f]
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