Insomniac Explains in Detail Why Sunset Overdrive is Xbox One Exclusive

August 6, 2014

Insomniac Games’ history with PlayStation is rich, dating back to 1996 with Disruptor—although most know it for its 1998 hit Spyro the Dragon. It goes without saying that its move to Xbox One has been a shocking development for many. So why would such a previously loyal studio turn to Sony’s biggest competitor?

While speaking to GameRevolution, Insomniac CEO Ted Price shared why Sunset Overdrive is only coming to Xbox One. He said:

We have a long history and great relationship with Sony and we will continue to work closely with them moving forward. However when Microsoft announced the Xbox One we felt that what Microsoft was offering in terms of the platform feature set and Xbox Live presence was a great match for Sunset Overdrive.

For example, our multiplayer mode in the game called Chaos Squad supports eight players traversing a giant open world together to take on randomized missions. This is not a simple feature to create. Yet Microsoft’s muscle on the platform and Xbox Live fronts has been invaluable in helping us create a unique multiplayer experience. Furthermore the overall partnership has been seamless, and we’ve been extremely happy with the level of support and commitment we’ve received for Sunset Overdrive.

Previously, Price has shared that only Microsoft was willing to publish the game and let Insomniac retain rights to the IP. So really, Microsoft had the best offer on the table, and Insomniac was hungry at the time.

Although it might seem like Insomniac has betrayed Sony, it’s currently working on a Ratchet & Clank title for the PS4. It’s expected to arrive next year, although we probably won’t see more of it until 2014 has come and gone.

Related: Sunset Overdrive E3 Preview

Sunset Overdrive is arguably the Xbox One’s strongest weapon for 2014, alongside Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Forza Horizon 2. We had a ton of fun checking it out at E3, and expect Microsoft’s investment in partnering with Insomniac to be well worth it.

Sunset Overdrive will arrive on October 28th exclusively for Xbox One.

Although Jonathan Leack began covering the gaming industry in 2009, his earliest roots date back to 2004 when he wrote his first of many reviews to come. Equipped with a B.S. in Computer Information Systems and several information technology certifications, he provides a unique perspective that is technological and business conscious. Having acquired the role of Executive Editor in 2016, his mission is to make GameRevolution a gaming site that thoughtfully considers the consumer perspective, and has a knowledgeable presence of PC gaming, console, hardware, and eSports coverage.