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E3 2015: Microsoft and Sony Vie for Attention with Exclusive Games and Backward Compatibility

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the 2015 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) kicked off in Los Angeles, Microsoft and Sony, two bigwig videogame-console makers, attempted to capture gamers' attention by showcasing blockbuster games for their respective Xbox One and PlayStation 4 (PS4) consoles. Microsoft's announcement of backward compatibility for Xbox One with Xbox 360 games was a notable highlight, allowing Xbox One gamers to play games made for the previous-generation console. Meanwhile, Sony unveiled new titles for its PS4 consoles, including 'The Last Guardian' and 'Horizon: Zero Dawn,' and revealed that its exclusivity deal with Activision would bring 'Call of Duty: Black Ops III' to PS4 owners in summer.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft announced backward compatibility for Xbox One with Xbox 360 games, enabling Xbox One gamers to play games made for the previous-generation console.
  • The backward compatibility feature will allow gamers to play a vast library of games, including 'Halo 5: Guardians;' 'Rise of the Tomb Raider;' and 'Gears of War.'
  • Sony announced the latest titles for its PS4 consoles, including 'The Last Guardian' and 'Horizon: Zero Dawn.'
  • Sony's exclusivity deal with Activision will enable PS4 owners to play 'Call of Duty: Black Ops III' this summer, ahead of other platforms.
  • Both Microsoft and Sony focused on exclusive content, highlighting their commitment to providing unique gaming experiences for their respective console owners.

Statistics:

  • 360 games made for the Xbox 360 console will be compatible with Xbox One through the backward compatibility feature.
  • 3 upcoming games showcased by Microsoft at E3 2015, including 'Halo 5: Guardians;' 'Rise of the Tomb Raider;' and 'Gears of War.'
  • 2 new game titles announced by Sony at E3 2015, including 'The Last Guardian' and 'Horizon: Zero Dawn.'
  • Summer 2015: the scheduled release period for 'Call of Duty: Black Ops III' on PS4 consoles.

Sources:

  • http://uncovercalifornia.com/business/technology
  • http://uncovercalifornia.com/company/microsoft
  • http://uncovercalifornia.com/company/sony
  • http://uncovercalifornia.com/california/los-angeles
  • http://www.sony.com/ (Sony official website, for reference to company and its latest announcements)
  • http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/ (Microsoft official news and announcements section, for verification of backward compatibility)

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