Mike Ybarra launches a direct criticism of Xbox: “Hard to see Xbox confused about who it is

The former Microsoft executive believes the brand needs to define its course and do it quickly.

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Mike Ybarra, former corporate vice president of Xbox for over a decade, has publicly expressed his concern about the brand’s current situation. Through his personal account on X (formerly Twitter), Ybarra shared a sincere message suggesting that Xbox is going through a period of uncertainty, both in identity and direction.

Although he doesn’t mention specific decisions, the comment comes after weeks of debate on social media about internal changes in Microsoft Gaming, the multi-platform focus, and the future of consoles. Ybarra, who was also president of Blizzard until 2023, claims to still be a fan of the brand but urges the team to make clear decisions.

“Choose your lane and stick to it,” says Ybarra about Xbox

It’s hard to see Xbox confused about who it is and what it should be,” he wrote. “There are still great people there. They need to figure out what needs to change… and fast. I’m a big fan and will always bleed green, cheering the team on from the sidelines.

The last sentence reinforces his emotional closeness to the current team, but also reflects an implicit criticism of the lack of clear direction in the division’s recent strategy. The community has interpreted his words as a wake-up call to decisions that don’t quite convince either traditional users or new players.

As Xbox moves forward with its multi-platform strategy and the restructuring of internal studios, veteran figures like Ybarra remain influential voices within the ecosystem. His message has been widely shared and has generated debate among the brand’s followers.

Tough to see @Xbox confused about who it is and what it should be. Some great people there still. They have to figure out what needs to change…. and fast. I’m a big fan and will always bleed green. Cheering the team on from the sidelines. Pick your lane and stick to it.

— Mike Ybarra (@Qwik) June 29, 2025