Ex-Sony Executive Calls Microsoft’s Gaming Subscription Strategy ‘Dangerous’

Shuhei Yoshida Weighs In on Gaming Subscriptions

During a recent interview with Game Developer, former Sony executive Shuhei Yoshida discussed the contrasting strategies of Microsoft and Sony regarding gaming subscription services, such as Game Pass and PlayStation Plus. Yoshida, who served as president of Sony’s Worldwide Studios from 2008 until his departure in January 2023, expressed concerns about the implications of a subscription-dominated gaming landscape.

The Potential Risks of Subscription-Only Models

Yoshida cautioned that a future where gaming is predominantly accessed through subscriptions poses significant risks for developers. He stated:

If the only way for people to play games is through subscriptions that’s really dangerous, because what type of games can be created will be dictated by the owner of the subscription services. That’s really, really risky because there always must always be fresh new ideas tried by small developers that create the next wave of development. But if the big companies dictate what games can be created, I don’t think that will advance the industry.

Sony’s Healthier Approach to Subscriptions

The industry veteran advocated for Sony’s more conservative approach to subscriptions, highlighting its focus on allowing gamers to purchase new titles directly. Yoshida noted that:

I believe the way Sony approached subscriptions is healthier. You know, not to overpromise and to allow people to spend money to buy the new games. After a couple of years, there won’t be many people willing to buy those games at that initial price, so they’ll be added to the subscription service, and there’ll be more people to try those products in time for the next game in the franchise to come out.

Microsoft’s Position on Game Access

While Yoshida’s perspective aligns him against Microsoft’s strategy of offering day-one first-party games via Game Pass, it’s important to recognize that Microsoft has consistently asserted its commitment to maintaining the option for customers to purchase games independently from the subscription service. Their intention was to enhance consumer engagement rather than transform the traditional purchase model into an obsolete concept.

Reflections on His Sony Tenure

In addition to his commentary on subscriptions, Yoshida reflected on his experiences post-sony departure. He mentioned that Hermen Hulst, his successor at PlayStation Studios, is not pressuring developers to produce live service games, allowing for a diverse range of projects. Furthermore, he shared enthusiasm about “Ghost of Yōtei, ”revealing that he played the game extensively prior to his exit. He hinted at its potential to outperform its predecessor, “Ghost of Tsushima, ”with a release date set for October 2.

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