Microsoft has opted out of its annual Xbox Wrapped recap for 2025, unlike competitors such as PlayStation and Steam. The decision appears tied to redirecting marketing efforts toward major anniversaries next year. Xbox's 25th, Blizzard's 35th, and Bethesda's 40th milestones are among the celebrations planned.
As 2025 draws to a close, gaming platforms are reflecting on the year's highlights through personalized summaries. Sony launched the PlayStation Wrap-Up, Steam provided its annual roundup, and Nintendo announced a Switch Year in Review for early 2026. However, Microsoft has chosen to forgo an Xbox equivalent this year, despite a busy period that included high-profile game releases and the debut of an Xbox-branded handheld PC developed with Asus.
According to reports from Windows Central, the absence stems from Microsoft's focus on 2026 marketing. That year marks the Xbox brand's 25th anniversary, Blizzard's 35th, and Bethesda's 40th. These milestones cluster closely, prompting a strategic shift in resources. Blizzard has also hinted at its "biggest year yet" in 2026, coinciding with the return of BlizzCon in September.
The broader gaming industry shares in the anniversary fervor. Next year brings the 30th for Pokémon, 35th for Sonic the Hedgehog, and 40th for both The Legend of Zelda and Castlevania.
Xbox does not produce a wrap-up annually, making the 2025 skip notable but not unprecedented. GameSpot has reached out to Microsoft for confirmation on any year-in-review plans and will update accordingly.
