Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella made important statements about the gaming industry in an interview with The Best Podcast Network. Nadella emphasized that Microsoft is no longer just a console manufacturer and is now a leader in game publishing. Just like with its Office products, the company is expanding its gaming experience to more diverse areas with its vision of “being on every platform.”
Microsoft CEO Surprises
Nadella unequivocally states that with the Activision acquisition, Microsoft has become the largest game publisher. According to the CEO, the Windows platform is the largest business in the gaming world, and distribution platforms like Steam are constantly driving the success of this ecosystem.
Microsoft isn’t limiting its gaming experience to consoles; it aims to provide the same accessibility across PC, cloud, mobile, and even TV platforms. Nadella reminds us that the idea behind Xbox stems from the idea of ”building a better PC,” and argues that the distinction between consoles and PCs needs to be reevaluated.
The CEO states that Microsoft wants to grow its gaming business not only with hardware but also with new forms of interaction. Nadella makes a striking observation on this point: “The real competitor to games isn’t other games, it’s short-form video.” This statement suggests that user attention is now divided between platforms like TikTok and short-form video content, and that the real battle is being waged with these platforms.
Furthermore, Nadella’s assertion that “good profit margins” are essential for sustaining innovation contrasts with the company’s recent layoffs in its gaming divisions. Furthermore, the CEO’s own salary, which increased by 22 percent compared to last year to $96.5 million, is also a focus of criticism.
