Phantom Blade Zero Devs Respond to \"Nobody Needs Xbox\" Misquote

S-Game Clarifies Remarks on Xbox Following ChinaJoy 2024 Controversy

A recent controversy surrounding comments allegedly made by a Phantom Blade Zero developer at ChinaJoy 2024 has prompted a response from S-Game. Multiple news outlets reported on statements attributed to an anonymous source, which were misinterpreted and amplified, leading to speculation about the game's platform exclusivity.

The initial reports, stemming from a Chinese news outlet and subsequently picked up internationally, suggested a lack of interest in Xbox in the Asian market. Some outlets, such as Gameplay Cassi, further misrepresented the comments, leading to headlines suggesting Xbox was deemed unnecessary.

S-Game's Official Statement

In a statement on Twitter (X), S-Game refuted the negative portrayal. The studio emphasized their commitment to broad accessibility, stating that the reported comments don't reflect their values or company culture. They explicitly declared that no platforms have been ruled out for Phantom Blade Zero. The developers reiterated their dedication to bringing the game to as many players as possible.

While S-Game didn't directly address the authenticity of the anonymous source, the underlying sentiment regarding Xbox's market share in Asia holds some weight. Xbox's sales figures in regions like Japan significantly trail behind PlayStation and Nintendo, and distribution challenges in Southeast Asia further complicate the platform's presence.

Addressing Exclusivity Rumors

The controversy also fueled speculation about an exclusive deal with Sony. While S-Game previously acknowledged Sony's support, they have denied any exclusive partnership. Their Summer 2024 Developer Update confirmed plans for a PC release alongside the PlayStation 5 version.

Conclusion

Although S-Game hasn't confirmed an Xbox release, their statement leaves the possibility open. The controversy highlights the challenges of accurate reporting and translation in the global gaming industry and underscores S-Game's commitment to making Phantom Blade Zero widely available.