While Xbox Series X sales dropped drastically in April 2023, Microsoft’s console is popular again. Indeed, the machine is torn off on Amazon. The Redmond firm can thank Starfield? It looks like it.
Microsoft is betting big with Starfield, Bethesda’s next space RPG. For a few months now, Xbox Series X sales have been dropping at breakneck speed. In April 2023, we learned that console sales were down 30% from the previous year. Worrying figures, but far from surprising for many industry observers.
Unlike Sony’s PS5, which was a hit in 2022 thanks to its quality exclusives such as God of War Ragnarok, Horizon Forbidden West or Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, the Xbox Series X did not have much something to chew on. Because, players are still waiting for the exclusives promised by Microsoftwhether Forza Motorsport, Starfield, Hellblade 2 or Fable to name a few.
The catastrophic release of Redfall, which nevertheless benefited from a postponement, did not help matters. But ultimately, the worst could well be behind for Microsoft. Indeed, just take a look at Amazon USA to see the renewed popularity of the Xbox Series X. Indeed, the machine has just climbed into the TOP 50 of the best-selling products on the platform, moving from 388th position to 40th in just a few hours. This figure speaks for itself: console sales increased by 870% on Amazon.
The hype around Starfield is reviving the Xbox Series X
How to explain this return to grace among the players? In our eyes, it’s hard not to see a Starfield effect. As you may know, the release of the game from Bethesda is imminent. The title should land on PC and Xbox Series X / S from September 6, 2023. In recent weeks, the studio has accelerated communication around its latest production. Lately, we were treated to a sublime Starfield Live Action trailer during Gamescom 2023. One of Bethesda’s executives, Pete Hines, also sparked excitement among gamers by stating that after “160 hours, he was still far from finishing the game“.
But above all, we can now find countless excerpts from the game on YouTube, Reddit and others. For players who don’t care about being spoiled, this is the perfect opportunity to get an idea of the game and who knows, make them want to get an Xbox Series X for D-Day and a Game Pass subscription. (the game will be available on the Microsoft service as soon as it is released).