Former PlayStation Chief Claims Exclusive Games Are Still Alive

      Even with PS5 games making their way to PC, Shawn Layden emphasizes that first-party titles continue to shape the identity of gaming platforms.

      Shawn Layden, formerly a top executive at Sony Interactive Entertainment, is reminding the gaming community that exclusive games still play a significant role. This comes as consoles increasingly resemble gaming PCs, featuring numerous cross-platform releases. Layden expressed his views in a recent episode of the Pause for Thought podcast, challenging the notion that platform-exclusive titles are becoming obsolete, especially as major PlayStation titles appear on PC months after debuting on PS5.

      In recent years, Sony has intensified its focus on bringing PC ports of titles that were once exclusive to PlayStation 5, with major games like God of War Ragnarök and Helldivers 2 reaching new audiences beyond Sony’s hardware. This strategy has proven financially beneficial, allowing Sony to generate substantial revenue on Steam while broadening its presence. However, Layden contends that this does not imply that exclusives have diminished in value.

      Exclusives defining a console’s identity?

      For Layden, exclusives are more than just a sales technique; they are integral to a console's identity and purpose. He humorously suggested that if characters like Mario, traditionally linked with Nintendo, were to appear on PlayStation, it would seem like an “apocalypse,” highlighting how platform-specific experiences are deeply embedded in brand loyalty and consumer perception.

      This viewpoint resonates with a broader discussion in the industry regarding the future of console hardware in an increasingly platform-agnostic software landscape. Even as consoles share more technical similarities with PCs, players still reference exclusives when discussing the reasons to opt for one system over another. Titles like The Last of Us or the Uncharted series are frequently mentioned in conversations about what makes the PlayStation ecosystem unique, while companies like Nintendo continue to rely heavily on exclusives to boost hardware sales.

      Layden acknowledges the benefits of cross-platform methods, particularly for multiplayer or live-service games, where large communities are essential. However, he believes there remains a significant role for single-platform titles that highlight a system's capabilities and reward players for engaging with that particular console's ecosystem.

      The conclusion here is that the discussion regarding exclusives versus cross-platform gaming is far from settled. In fact, it is evolving. You may choose a console not only for its specifications or cost but also for the distinctive experiences associated with that brand, according to this industry veteran.

      Varun is a seasoned technology journalist and editor with over eight years of experience in consumer tech media.

      **GeForce NOW’s 100-hour cap, explained for your monthly playtime**

      For lighter usage, it may feel unchanged; however, for more intensive gaming sessions, understanding how the cap and add-on features function is essential.

      GeForce NOW will begin enforcing a 100-hour monthly playtime limit starting January 1, altering how some subscribers plan their gaming hours. The immediate question is whether this limit will affect you immediately or if you are on a longer timeline.

      A Reddit user has attempted to clarify the policy, posting a chart estimating the potential costs for exceeding 100 hours based on different tiers and add-on assumptions. While helpful for rough planning, it is not an official guideline.

      **Xbox is losing the console race, so Microsoft is reevaluating what Xbox means**

      The strategy adjustment focuses on an open system that follows users across different hardware and cloud platforms.

      Microsoft’s Xbox console sales are facing challenges, and the company indicates that it may not prioritize hardware sales as fans expect. CNBC reports on Microsoft’s fiscal 2026 first-quarter earnings, noting an overall decline in gaming revenue of 2% year over year and a 29% drop in Xbox hardware revenue.

      The decrease extends beyond Xbox itself. Circana data cited by CNBC shows console hardware spending decreased by 27% year over year in November, typically a key shopping period. Even within this concerning context, Xbox Series hardware experienced the steepest decline, down 70% compared to the same month the previous year.

      **These are the things you must do with your new PS5 before playing a game**

      Start your experience with Sony’s system on the right foot using our PS5 setup guide.

      Have you just acquired a PlayStation 5 or PS5 Pro, or received one as a gift? Congratulations! Sony’s white console has dominated this generation due to significant advancements over the PS4 and an impressive game library.

      However, once you unbox your new console, you may be uncertain where to begin. With five years of updates and an extensive game library to explore, we have compiled a guide to assist you in transitioning from powering it on to enjoying free games through PlayStation Plus and much more.