Our ambition at XBOX is to be the world’s leading entertainment company. That means making our games enduring franchises that entertain, inspire and connect people across generations and around the world.
This opportunity is why we create XP.
As Asha shared in her email this morning, XP is a new XBOX division, led by new President Kayleen Walters, covering film and television, consumer products, strategic partnerships and live experiences. It brings together the capabilities that have existed across different XBOX teams for years and combines them with a common mission: to help our franchises reach more people, create deeper connections with players and new fans, and open up new opportunities for these fandoms to grow across the world.
Great games remain at the center of these franchises and at the heart of XBOX. XP will team up with the best creative minds across our studios, along with trusted partners, to build on this foundation and create more ways for people to experience the worlds they love.
The creation of the XP division formalizes four areas of investment:
- XBOX PICTURES: Introducing our worlds and characters to new audiences through film, television, and other forms of linear storytelling.
- XBOX PRODUCTS: Create products authentic to the fandom that allow fans to celebrate and express the franchises they love.
- XBOX LOCATIONS: Bringing communities together through live events, immersive experiences, attractions, broadcasts and destinations.
- XBOX PARTNERSHIPS: Work with creators, brands and communities to develop new experiences, sponsorships and brand partnerships.
Throughout her career, Kayleen has helped run some of the world’s most iconic entertainment properties. During 13 years at Lucasfilm, she helped develop and relaunch one of the most influential franchises in history. At Mojang, its track record speaks for itself. Under his tenure, Minecraft grew from an already record 350 million units sold to over 425 million, its merchandising business became one of the top 20 in the world. A Minecraft movie had the biggest opening weekend ever for a video game adaptation and finished #1 at the domestic box office, and Mojang secured the first of many theme park placements to come.
Kayleen understands that the strongest franchises thrive by staying true to what and who makes them special, while creating new ways for fans, creators, partners, and communities to participate. I can’t imagine a better leader for this division and we are just beginning to imagine what she will build.
Matthew Ball
Gn entert
