For over two decades, Microsoft’s most iconic first-party franchises have largely remained exclusive to Xbox and PC platforms. But if new reports are to be believed, that long-standing tradition may be shifting in a major way. According to emerging rumours from known leakers and corroborated industry whispers, both State of Decay 3 and Gears of War: E-Day two highly anticipated exclusives could eventually make their way to PlayStation 5.

While nothing has been officially confirmed by Microsoft or the studios behind these titles, recent developments have fans and analysts raising eyebrows. The speculation gained steam after several insiders pointed to strategic changes in Microsoft’s publishing approach. With Xbox leadership showing increased interest in releasing major games across multiple platforms including former exclusives like Hi-Fi Rush and Sea of Thieves the possibility of a PS5 release for State of Decay 3 and Gears: E-Day no longer feels out of the question.

The Case of State of Decay 3

Originally announced in July 2020, State of Decay 3 is being developed by Undead Labs, a studio owned by Xbox Game Studios. The third installment in the open-world zombie survival series is expected to be a major step forward, both visually and mechanically. While early marketing framed the game as a console exclusive for Xbox Series X/S, some industry figures now suggest a multiplatform release could be in the cards down the line.

Part of the speculation stems from the fact that development on State of Decay 3 has reportedly seen multiple internal delays, with some sources saying the project is now targeting a 2026 or later launch. That extended timeline, combined with Microsoft’s growing openness to platform-agnostic publishing, is fueling talk of a broader release strategy.

Gears of War: E-Day and the Changing Face of Xbox

The bigger shock, however, lies with Gears of War: E-Day. Unveiled at the Xbox Games Showcase in June 2024, E-Day is a prequel that tells the story of the early days of the Locust War through the eyes of a younger Marcus Fenix. The reveal trailer made a huge splash with fans and marked a gritty return to the franchise’s horror roots.

Traditionally, Gears of War has been one of Xbox’s most loyal exclusives, rivalling Halo and Forza in branding power. But behind the scenes, hints suggest that may no longer be the case. A job listing spotted by fans listed experience with “PlayStation Network” APIs among its desired skills, raising questions about potential cross-platform support. Other leaks have followed, including claims from reliable Xbox insider ExTas1s that E-Day could launch simultaneously on Xbox, PC, and PS5 in 2026.

While such a move might have been unthinkable five years ago, Microsoft’s recent publishing strategies paint a different picture. With the company having already shipped games like Grounded and Pentiment to Switch and PlayStation earlier this year, expanding Gears of War could be seen as the next logical step in reaching new audiences and generating more revenue from its biggest IPs.

Cautious Optimism or Just Smoke?

It’s important to remember that, at this stage, all talk of State of Decay 3 and Gears: E-Day coming to PlayStation is speculative. Neither Microsoft nor the respective development studios have confirmed these plans, and the official word still positions these games as Xbox console and PC titles.

However, the foundation for a multiplatform future is already being laid. With Xbox CEO Phil Spencer repeatedly stating that exclusivity is no longer the centerpiece of Microsoft’s strategy, and with studio acquisitions driving pressure to recoup investments, fans may be witnessing a slow but steady shift.

If these reports turn out to be accurate, it would mark a historic moment in gaming one where some of Xbox’s most iconic franchises break free from their traditional console boundaries. Whether you’re a lifelong Xbox player or a diehard PlayStation fan, the implications are big: more games, fewer walls, and a new era of platform fluidity.

Until official word comes down, all eyes remain on Microsoft. If even one of these flagship titles launches on PlayStation, it will signal that the industry’s old lines in the sand may be fading for good.