New Xbox Chief Signals Openness to Console Exclusives
The newly appointed head of Microsoft’s gaming division has acknowledged growing calls from fans for a renewed focus on Xbox console exclusives, hinting at a possible shift in strategy for the brand.
Asha Sharma, who was named chief executive of Microsoft Gaming last week, responded on social media to a fan asking for the return of console-only titles, replying simply: “Hear you.” She also engaged with another post highlighting popular Xbox-exclusive franchises, moves that quickly drew attention from the gaming community.
Sharma’s appointment follows a major leadership shake-up at Microsoft. Former Xbox president Sarah Bond has stepped down, while longtime Xbox boss Phil Spencer retired after nearly four decades at the company.
Her comments come amid ongoing debate over Microsoft’s recent strategy of releasing games from its studios on rival platforms. In recent years, the company has increasingly positioned Xbox as a service and ecosystem rather than a device, promoting the idea that “everything can be an Xbox.”
In an internal memo issued after taking the role, Sharma said her priorities include ensuring Microsoft-owned studios deliver high-quality games and restoring a strong sense of Xbox identity. She described this as “the return of Xbox,” with a renewed commitment to the console and the community built around it.
“We will celebrate our roots with a renewed commitment to Xbox, starting with the console which has shaped who we are,” Sharma wrote, adding that the hardware remains central to players and developers who invest in the platform.
Sharma previously led Microsoft’s CoreAI group, and her early signals have raised expectations among fans that Xbox may rebalance its approach between expanding to new platforms and reinforcing exclusive experiences for its core audience.
