Is Stray on Xbox?
The Short Answer
Unfortunately, the answer is no, Stray is not currently available on Xbox. The game is a highly acclaimed, third-person cat-based adventure game developed by BlueTwelve Studio and published by Annapurna Interactive. It was initially released on June 19, 2022, for PC (via Steam and GOG) and PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.
The Reason Behind the Exclusivity
Stray’s exclusivity to PlayStation and PC platforms is due to a deal between BlueTwelve Studio and Annapurna Interactive, which is a publisher-agnostic company. This means that they focus on developing and publishing games across multiple platforms, but they also maintain a strong relationship with specific platforms, such as PlayStation.
The Developer’s Statement
In an interview with IGN, the game’s director, Nicolas Guérin, explained that the decision to keep Stray exclusive to PlayStation and PC was strategic. He stated that the team wanted to focus on creating a high-quality game for these platforms and that they didn’t want to compromise on the game’s features or visuals to accommodate Xbox.
Features and Gameplay
So, what makes Stray so special? Here are some of its key features and gameplay elements:
- Third-person perspective: Players control a stray cat named Aki as she explores a futuristic, cyberpunk city.
- Immersive world: The game features a richly detailed, hand-painted world that is full of hidden secrets and collectibles.
- Stealth gameplay: Aki must use her wits and agility to evade enemies and overcome obstacles.
- Puzzle-solving: Players must solve puzzles to progress through the game and uncover the mysteries of the city.
- Upgrades and abilities: Aki can upgrade her abilities and equipment as she progresses through the game.
Reception and Critical Acclaim
Stray has received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging storyline. The game has a Metacritic score of 86% on PC and 84% on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.
Comparison to Xbox Exclusives
So, how does Stray compare to Xbox exclusives? Here’s a brief comparison:
| Game | Stray | Xbox Exclusives |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Third-person adventure | Various (e.g., Halo, Gears of War, Forza) |
| Gameplay | Stealth, puzzle-solving | Fast-paced action, multiplayer |
| Visuals | Hand-painted, cyberpunk | Realistic, detailed |
| Storyline | Engaging, mysterious | Varied (e.g., sci-fi, fantasy, historical) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stray is not currently available on Xbox, and it’s unlikely that it will be released on the platform in the near future. The game’s exclusivity to PlayStation and PC platforms is due to a strategic decision by the developers and publishers. While Xbox exclusives offer a different gaming experience, Stray’s unique blend of stealth, puzzle-solving, and exploration is sure to appeal to fans of the adventure genre.