Xbox Launches New XP Division for Multimedia Adaptations
Products and live events will also be part of the new strategy.
Expanding Gaming Properties
A new division of Xbox called XP will focus on growing the fanbases of its various gaming properties through TV, film, products and events. Announced in a blog post written by Xbox's Chief Strategy Officer Matthew Ball, XP will play a significant role in the company's plan to become a massive global entertainment company with ambitious daily reach.
Microsoft hasn't paired this news with the announcement of any new movies or globetrotting concerts, but the games-adjacent division's function is clear. XP will be tasked with bringing Xbox characters to new audiences through film, television, and other linear storytelling, as well as appealing to the existing community through product launches and live attractions.
Leadership
XP will be headed up by Kayleen Walters, who worked at Lucasfilm for 13 years before joining Microsoft and eventually becoming president of Minecraft studio Mojang. Walters served as an executive producer on A Minecraft Movie and is named as a producer on the upcoming sequel, alongside upcoming theme park projects.
Transmedia Strategy
Microsoft doubling down on its transmedia strategy aligns with its vast library of intellectual property. While the live-action Halo show faced challenges, Prime Video's Fallout proved to be a major success, and future adaptations appear inevitable following major acquisitions.
Future Adaptations
Reports indicate plans to adapt franchises such as Gears of War, Diablo, Forza, and The Elder Scrolls in the future. Xbox also intends to collaborate with Kojima Productions on upcoming multimedia projects.
