Big Walk Game Skips Xbox Release Due to Microsoft's Ties with Israel

Game Withheld from Xbox

The co-op multiplayer game Big Walk, developed by House House, has not been released on Xbox consoles. The game launched in August on other platforms, but Xbox players are excluded from playing it.

Reason for Boycott

House House stated that the decision to skip Xbox is in solidarity with the Palestinian-led BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement. The BDS movement has called for a boycott of Microsoft, including its gaming division, due to the company's contracts with the Israeli military and government.

BDS Movement's Stance

Microsoft was designated a priority BDS target in June of the previous year. The boycott specifically targets Xbox consoles, Game Pass subscriptions, Microsoft-owned gaming franchises, and related accessories. Microsoft employees have also protested the company's involvement with Israel, leading to some firings for participation in pro-Palestine demonstrations.

Developer's Statement

House House acknowledged that this decision prevents some players from experiencing Big Walk with friends. The developer expressed a desire for the game to be available on Xbox, but only if Microsoft or Xbox are removed from the BDS boycott list. The company believes this action can contribute to meaningful change.

Availability on Other Platforms

Despite the Xbox boycott, Big Walk is available on Microsoft's Windows operating system via Steam. The developer has not provided a reason for this distinction.