Phantom Blade Zero Devs Clarify Xbox Comment

S-GAME Clarifies Remarks on Xbox Following ChinaJoy 2024 Controversy

S-GAME, the studio behind the anticipated titles Phantom Blade Zero and Black Myth: Wukong, has addressed a recent controversy stemming from statements attributed to an anonymous source at ChinaJoy 2024. Several media outlets reported on comments allegedly made by a Phantom Blade Zero developer expressing skepticism about the Xbox platform's appeal.

The Misquote and its Fallout

The initial report, originating from a Chinese news source and subsequently translated by fans, suggested a lack of interest in Xbox. This was amplified by some international outlets, with varying degrees of accuracy in their reporting. One notable instance involved a mistranslation that significantly heightened the perceived negativity towards Xbox.

S-GAME's official response on Twitter(X) firmly refuted the notion that these comments reflect the company's stance. The statement emphasizes S-GAME's commitment to broad accessibility for Phantom Blade Zero, explicitly stating that no platforms have been excluded from consideration.

Xbox's Market Position in Asia

While S-GAME didn't confirm or deny the anonymous source's identity, the statement acknowledges the reality of Xbox's comparatively lower market share in Asia compared to PlayStation and Nintendo. The limited availability and retail support for Xbox in certain Asian regions further complicate the platform's presence.

Sony Collaboration and Exclusivity Rumors

Speculation regarding an exclusive deal with Sony intensified following the controversy. While S-GAME previously acknowledged receiving support from Sony, they have explicitly denied any exclusive partnership. Their Summer 2024 developer update confirmed plans for a PC release alongside the PlayStation 5 version.

Conclusion

Although an Xbox release remains unconfirmed, S-GAME's statement leaves the door ajar for future possibilities. The clarification aims to quell the controversy and reassure players that the studio's focus remains on delivering Phantom Blade Zero to the widest possible audience.