Microsoft shifts Xbox strategy to exclusives and raises console prices amid memory chip shortage

Microsoft is planning to bring several of its major first‑party games back to Xbox exclusivity after a period of multi‑platform releases. The move follows an internal reorganisation of the Xbox division, dubbed the “Xbox reset,” which included large layoffs. New Xbox CEO Asha Sharma is said to have confirmed the strategy, naming titles such as *Gears of War: E‑Day* and *Clockwork Revolution* as the first exclusives. Other announced games like *Halo: Campaign Evolved*, *Forza Horizon 6*, *Fable* and *Minecraft Dungeons 2* will continue to launch on additional platforms, and PC remains a key outlet for Xbox titles.

At the same time, Microsoft announced price increases for the Xbox Series S and Series X consoles, citing a global memory‑chip shortage that has raised component costs. The company posted the new price lists on its website, specifying the effective date and urging consumers to purchase before the hikes take effect. The adjustments affect both the entry‑level Series S and the flagship Series X, with the amount of the increase varying by model.