Xbox Game Pass-Style Subscriptions 'Bad for the Business' and Turn Developers Into 'Wage Slaves,' Former PlayStation Boss Shawn Layden Says

Former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden has criticized gaming subscription services like Xbox Game Pass, stating that they are detrimental to the video game industry and developers. Layden argues that these subscription models turn developers into "wage slaves" by not providing sufficient compensation for their work. He believes that the current subscription-based approach is "bad for the business" and fails to adequately reward the efforts of game creators. Layden suggests that the industry should explore alternative monetization strategies that better support the development of high-quality, innovative games. The former PlayStation boss emphasizes the importance of finding a balanced approach that ensures fair compensation for developers while also providing value for consumers. His comments highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of subscription services on the video game ecosystem and the need to find a sustainable model that benefits all stakeholders.