Former Microsoft executive declares Xbox consoles dead after praising PS5 sales figures

The future of existing Xbox hardware is bleak, as some retailers have stopped selling the systems. After another price increase and fewer exclusive games, it’s become more difficult to tempt buyers. The ex-Blizzard president, Mike Ybarra, has previously attacked Microsoft for questionable strategic decisions. However, his proclamation that Xbox consoles are dead may be his harshest statement yet.

Ybarra made his comment after complimenting Sony for reaching another PS5 sales milestone. At the $136 billion mark, Sony executive Hideaki Nishino celebrated the PS5 as the most successful PlayStation generation. Ybarra sarcastically remarked, “But hey, the console market isn’t a successful business. It is if you do it right.”

A reader who believes the former executive is biased prompted Ybarra to say, “Your console is dead”. Microsoft hasn’t announced the end of life for the Xbox Series X or Series S. Even so, some Costco stores have recently stopped stocking the console. Despite a price increase, other locations are clearing out stock at steep discounts.

Naysayers see a lack of direction for Xbox

Ybarra has suggested that Microsoft focus on multi-platform publishing rather than Xbox consoles. He also joins other analysts in thinking that its “This is an Xbox” campaign is confusing. Critics are skeptical that traditional console gamers will embrace smart TVs or Windows 11 handhelds like the ROG Xbox Ally.

The one-time Blizzard president also has strong views on the Xbox price increases. He attributes the rising costs to Microsoft's failure to profit from hardware sales. As with his post about the death of Xbox consoles, many gamers don’t agree with that position. Microsoft, like Sony, has blamed challenging economic conditions for higher MSRPs.

Only time will tell how much longer the Xbox Series X|S will remain available. Supporters are quick to point out that the consoles still enjoy a wide selection of games. Microsoft continues to release first-party titles for the system. Sony may also bring other formerly exclusive PlayStation games besides Helldivers 2 to its struggling rival.