S-GAME clarifies controversial ChinaJoy 2024 comments. Let's examine the recent uproar surrounding Phantom Blade Zero and the developer's official response.
S-GAME Addresses the Controversy
Misquoted Remarks Spark Outrage
S-GAME, the studio behind Phantom Blade Zero and Black Myth: Wukong, addressed recent reports stemming from ChinaJoy 2024. Several media outlets cited an anonymous source claiming a negative view of Xbox.
The studio released a statement on Twitter (X), emphasizing their commitment to broad game accessibility. The statement explicitly refutes the reported sentiment, asserting, "These alleged statements do not reflect S-GAME's values or culture. We are dedicated to making our game available to all players and haven't ruled out any platforms for Phantom Blade Zero. We're actively working on development and publishing to ensure maximum player reach."
The initial controversy stemmed from a Chinese news outlet’s report, attributed to an anonymous Phantom Blade Zero developer, stating a lack of Xbox interest. This translated to claims, in outlets like Aroged, that Xbox lacks market demand in Asia. The situation worsened when Gameplay Cassi misinterpreted the Aroged report, translating it as a dismissal of the entire platform.
While S-GAME neither confirmed nor denied the anonymous source, their statement acknowledges a degree of truth to the underlying claim. Xbox’s Asian market share pales in comparison to PlayStation and Nintendo. Sales figures in Japan, for example, illustrate this disparity.
Xbox's limited availability in Asia further complicates the situation. In 2021, Southeast Asian retail support was largely absent, with Singapore being a notable exception. This logistical challenge impacted Xbox's presence in the region.
Speculation of an exclusive deal with Sony fueled the controversy. Although S-GAME previously acknowledged Sony's development and marketing support (in a June 8th interview), they've denied exclusive partnership rumors. Their Summer 2024 update highlighted plans for PlayStation 5 and PC releases.
While an Xbox release remains unconfirmed, S-GAME's response leaves the possibility open.
