Microsoft Expands Xbox Research to Engage Unaffiliated Game Studios for Enhanced Collaboration

Microsoft is broadening its research department and seeking input from game studios that have not developed titles for Xbox. The initiative aims to gather insights from a wider range of developers to foster collaboration across the gaming industry. In a recent announcement, the company expressed that the main goal of this expansion is to actively listen to partners within the Xbox ecosystem. This engagement is intended to gather valuable data that will aid in refining future tools and services and to tackle existing challenges experienced by developers.

The intention is clear: fostering a productive dialogue with game creators to identify issues and enhance the overall experience for those collaborating to launch games. Microsoft is also keen to receive feedback from developers who currently do not create games for Xbox consoles. Input from these studios is valuable, as noted by a principal user researcher. Understanding the reasons behind their absence on Xbox platforms is equally important, and insights from those utilizing competing products are seen as beneficial for growth and improvement.

This approach will enable Microsoft to obtain new insights while preventing the Xbox Research division from becoming insular. Having been active for two decades, the division recognizes the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping the future of gaming experiences. The company welcomes contributions from all individuals involved in game development, believing that simplifying processes for creators ultimately leads to better gaming outcomes. The new program will implement strategies that resemble those employed in player-centered studies, utilizing various methods such as interviews, usability testing, playtesting, surveys, and pilot programs.

These procedures will ensure that the approach remains user-focused, reflecting the same thoroughness as game testing activities. Currently, studios in the United States can register to engage with the Xbox Research team, with plans in place to broaden recruitment efforts to additional countries soon.