Why Final Fantasy 14 Isn't Available on Xbox One

The Xbox One isn't without MMOs, but one major game that's available on PlayStation systems but missing from Microsoft's consoles is Square Enix's Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn. Now, Microsoft's top gaming boss, Phil Spencer, has provided an explanation as to why the game isn't available on Xbox One.

"It's business," he told IGN, mentioning that he couldn't talk much more about the specifics about the matter. He did, however, say he's not terribly enthusiastic about exclusive deals for third-party games. "You see us doing less of it now--[I've found] it's not something I'm a huge fan of."

Microsoft, of course, does have a major third-party exclusive game, Rise of the Tomb Raider, lined up for Xbox One this holiday. But Spencer says this isn't a traditional third-party exclusivity arrangement, as Microsoft is actively involved in the game's development and will even serve as its publisher. Looking beyond this deal, as Spencer has said before, Xbox One owners should not expect many more third-party exclusives, as Microsoft will instead rather focus on its own franchises going forward.

"I want to have strong third-party relations, but paying for many third-party exclusives isn't our long-term strategy," Spencer said earlier this month.

By comparison, PlayStation executive Andrew House said in May that third-party content deals, such as the ones the company has in place for Destiny, Street Fighter V, and Call of Duty: Black Ops III, are integral to the company's business plan. This is an especially important area for Sony this year specifically, House said, because the PS4 first-party lineup is "a little sparse."

Instead of full exclusives for third-party games, Spencer said Microsoft can leverage its relationships with outside studios for exclusive content and features for multiplatform games. Cited examples included Fallout 4 mods launching first on Xbox One and Microsoft's partnership with Electronic Arts for EA Access.

What do you make of Spencer's comments? Share your thoughts below.