As a proud owner of a PC, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch, I find myself in a unique position when it comes to new game releases. Interestingly, the PlayStation 5 has yet to make its way onto my list of consoles, despite my previous intentions to acquire one. Almost five years post-launch, I’ve managed to resist the allure of FOMO, largely due to a significant shift in the gaming landscape: the decline of console exclusivity.
My patience has paid off, especially with the recent PC launches of highly anticipated titles like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. While PlayStation enthusiasts enjoyed these games over a year ago, I was content to wait for my opportunity. Historically, most PlayStation titles I’ve desired have eventually become available on my preferred platforms, with the exception of Bloodborne. This trend of staggered PC releases creates a temporary exclusivity rather than a lifetime commitment, benefiting developers and gamers alike. It reflects a broader change in how publishers strategize their sales, moving away from exclusives as a means to drive console sales, and instead focusing on prestige and accessibility.
Levelling up the playing field
Console exclusivity, once a hallmark of brand loyalty, often felt more punitive than beneficial. It forced gamers to choose sides, creating unnecessary divisions within the community. Fortunately, the eventual availability of games on PC means I never feel pressured to conform to a specific console ecosystem. Instead, I can explore my Steam library, enjoy Xbox Game Pass, or replay beloved titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 while waiting for the next big release.
Moreover, the gaming industry is witnessing a paradigm shift. Titles that were once exclusive to Xbox, such as Forza Horizon 5, are now making their way to PlayStation, while Square Enix is broadening its horizons with games like Octopath Traveler. This evolution indicates that publishers are recognizing the diminishing returns of exclusivity and are instead opting to cater to a wider audience by releasing games across multiple platforms.
The landscape of gaming in 2025 suggests that permanent console exclusivity holds little value. With an abundance of games available, the competition for players’ attention is fierce. This environment encourages publishers to expand their reach, resulting in delayed yet welcomed PC ports. Consequently, I no longer feel deprived of the latest PS5 offerings, nor do I sense that Sony is attempting to penalize me for not investing in their console.
While I generally prefer to invest in PC games rather than purchase a console I might only use sporadically, there are notable exceptions—namely, GTA 6 and Nintendo. The anticipated GTA 6 is rumored to be a console exclusive for PS5 and Xbox Series X, which may sway some PC gamers toward console ownership, especially if it sets a new standard for pricing. On the other hand, Nintendo’s unique IPs, such as Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and the iconic Mario franchise, can only be accessed through their consoles. This exclusivity ensures that the Switch remains a beloved choice among gamers.
Ultimately, variety and player choice are at the heart of this discussion. The launch of a favorite game on another platform should not diminish the value of your experience. The gaming industry is in a constant state of evolution, and as it adapts, the gradual decline of console exclusivity may serve to benefit both the many and the few.
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Check out all the upcoming PS5 games I won’t be playing for at least one year – though I’m keen for you to.
