The impending Indiana Jones video game being developed by Bethesda has become a focal point as Microsoft renegotiates with Disney, making the title exclusive to Xbox and PC. This strategic move has come to light amid Microsoft’s intense legal battle with the FTC regarding the controversial Activision Blizzard acquisition. Original plans for a multiplatform release were altered post-Microsoft’s purchase of ZeniMax, and now the iconic whip-cracking adventure will join the Xbox Game Pass on launch day, according to Bethesda's Pete Hines.

The decision was influenced by various factors including risk reduction, the complex licensing arrangement with Lucasfilm, and a desire to leverage the extensive Game Pass subscriber base. Discussions revealed by court documents show the considerations behind making Indiana Jones and Starfield Xbox exclusives. Disney's head of gaming explained that despite the exclusivity, they felt the game would still reach a broad audience. Microsoft, on the other hand, hopes to balance losses by boosting Game Pass and Xbox console sales.

Microsoft's pattern of converting high-profile games into exclusives has been evident since the ZeniMax acquisition, with several Bethesda titles, including the eagerly anticipated Elder Scrolls 6 and Starfield, being limited to PC and Xbox platforms. Meanwhile, the future of console exclusivity for Activision's Call of Duty remains uncertain, despite Microsoft's commitment to keep the franchise on PlayStation for the next ten years.

This exclusivity strategy, while profitable for Xbox, raises questions about the impact on PlayStation gamers and the broader gaming ecosystem. Anticipation for further details and developments on Bethesda's Indiana Jones game is mounting, with more announcements expected in 2024.

Will the Indiana Jones game by Bethesda be available on PlayStation 5?

No, the Indiana Jones game developed by Bethesda will not be available on PlayStation 5. It has been confirmed to be exclusive to Xbox and PC platforms.