Microsoft made a huge splash in the gaming industry in 2020 by announcing the purchase of Bethesda Softworks, which is well-known for its Elder Scrolls and Fallout series. The acquisition came as a shock to much of the community. Initial questions about Xbox Game Studios adding Bethesda to its ranks were surrounded by the topic of exclusivity, especially about the aforementioned titles. However, Microsoft may not be done adding to its arsenal quite yet.
Already under the Xbox Game Studios umbrella are studios such as 343 Industries, Obsidian, Rare, Undead Labs, World's Edge, and more. On its website, the gaming giant displays titles the studios are now responsible for developing, Age of Empires, Forza, and Halo being a few of the highlights on that list. Outside of Halo being a major Xbox exclusive, PlayStation's list out-shined Xbox's efforts in that area. As Microsoft continues to purchase studios, its compendium of titles could increase soon.
YouTuber and game reviewer ACG recently made an appearance on an episode of the Defining Duke Podcast, where he revealed a rumor about Microsoft purchasing another studio. Along with that studio would be an exclusive title that was described as a "B-level surprise." ACG would not go into more detail about what studio may be joining the ranks of Rare and Obsidian. The YouTuber told the Defining Duke Podcast that due to having friends at that specific studio, no name of it would be mentioned.
Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, already confirmed with the gaming community that Microsoft intends on buying more studios. That statement was made in November of 2020, and since no announcement of a purchase has taken place within the last three months, one could be on the horizon. The question now curtails into what exactly is defined as a "B-level surprise." ACG did not provide more context on his statement, leaving the industry to guess up until the news is reported.
Presumably, an A-level title can include any fresh Halo, Elder Scrolls or Fallout game. Elder Scrolls VI is not close to debuting, Halo was delayed until the Fall of 2021, and Fallout 76 is still receiving weekly updates, so that is not an option at this time. Starfield is a Bethesda property with rumors swirling around the Internet of its potential exclusivity.
It could also be a new IP that has yet to be revealed to the world. Only time will tell when, or if, ACG's rumor comes to fruition. Spencer is not shy from the media and since gaming conventions are not able to take place due to the pandemic, an online announcement is a realistic avenue where that information will be shared.
Sources: PureXbox.com, Xbox.com