Shawn Layden Defends Exclusives as a Tool for Innovation

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Shawn Layden says console exclusives allow developers to push hardware further than cross-platform titles ever could. According to the former PlayStation boss, building games for multiple platforms often forces studios to design around the “lowest common denominator.”

“With exclusives, you can push every lever to eleven,” Layden explained, pointing to PlayStation games that fully utilize features like the DualSense controller’s haptics and touchpad. Titles such as Ghost of Yotei were designed specifically to take advantage of PlayStation hardware in ways other platforms can’t match.

While Xbox leadership has recently criticized exclusivity as outdated, Layden believes carefully chosen exclusives still drive innovation, brand loyalty, and memorable gaming experiences—even as the industry experiments with wider releases.