Xbox Games Top PS5 Charts in Surprising Q2 2025 Upset

The Q2 2025 sales charts for PlayStation games in the United States are now available, and the results may surprise some fans. According to fresh data released by Circana (formerly NPD Group), six out of the ten best-selling games on the PlayStation platform last quarter were developed or published by Xbox owned studios. This unexpected turn is further proof that Microsoft’s multiplatform strategy is gaining serious momentum.

Leading the Xbox wave on PlayStation is Forza Horizon 5, which claimed the second spot on the list. It is followed closely by Oblivion Remastered, which reintroduced players to Bethesda’s fantasy epic in upgraded form. Other Microsoft-published games on the chart include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, DOOM: The Dark Ages, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and the ever-popular Minecraft. Only one PlayStation-published exclusive, Death Stranding 2, managed to break into the top 10 this quarter.

These numbers come from Circana’s US based tracking of both physical and digital software sales across platforms. While the data only covers the American market, it offers a striking picture of how Microsoft’s approach to cross-platform gaming is reshaping the industry.

Microsoft’s Games Are Thriving on PlayStation

When Microsoft first announced it would be bringing select Xbox titles to PlayStation and other platforms, it caused waves across the gaming community. Many wondered whether this shift would weaken the Xbox brand or dilute Game Pass value. But if the latest numbers are any indication, it seems the decision is paying off handsomely for Microsoft.

Forza Horizon 5 is a notable standout. Despite originally launching in 2021, the racing game has seen renewed popularity, likely driven by its recent expansion packs and updated PS5 port. It is a reminder that strong games with long tails can thrive far beyond their launch windows, especially when introduced to new platforms.

The success of Oblivion Remastered is also telling. Bethesda’s deep RPG roots have always had fans on both sides of the console divide. Bringing a polished version of a beloved classic to PS5 was a strategic win for Xbox and Bethesda alike.

Meanwhile, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 continues the franchise’s tradition of massive commercial success. Although Activision is now under the Microsoft umbrella, Call of Duty remains a staple on PlayStation due to long-standing agreements and overwhelming fan demand. Even with Game Pass availability on Xbox and PC, the series is still finding traction in full-price sales on Sony’s console.

The Case of Death Stranding 2 and Sony’s Shifting Strategy

Interestingly, Death Stranding 2 is the only first-party PlayStation exclusive featured in the top 10. This suggests a few key trends. First, Sony’s first-party pipeline has been slower in 2025 compared to prior years. Second, the appeal of multiplatform games has widened considerably among PlayStation users.

While Sony still holds franchises like Spider Man, The Last of Us, and God of War, there have been fewer high-profile releases so far this year. Some insiders suggest this could change in the latter half of 2025 with the expected launch of Wolverine, but for now, third-party and Xbox-developed titles are leading the pack.

Sony itself may be preparing for a more multiplatform future. The company recently posted a job listing for a head of multiplatform strategy, explicitly mentioning platforms such as Steam, Xbox, and Nintendo. Games like Helldivers 2 and MLB The Show already reflect this shift, and additional releases could follow suit.

Why Are Xbox Games Selling So Well on PlayStation?

The strong performance of Xbox owned titles on PlayStation raises important questions. One key factor is simple access. Not every player owns multiple consoles or a gaming PC, so expanding access allows Microsoft to increase sales without relying solely on Xbox hardware. For players who prefer the PS5 but are interested in games like Doom or Indiana Jones, this model works well.

Another contributing factor is brand history. Series like DOOM and Minecraft have been available on PlayStation long before their developers were acquired by Microsoft. These franchises already have large player bases on Sony consoles. Bringing new entries to PS5 builds on that legacy rather than asking players to switch ecosystems.

It also helps that these games are good. Whether it is the open-world exploration of Forza, the cinematic action of Indiana Jones, or the creative sandbox of Minecraft, these titles are polished, well reviewed, and packed with content. Players are more likely to spend money on games that deliver value, regardless of who publishes them.

What This Means for the Industry

Microsoft’s multiplatform push appears to be more than a short-term experiment. According to Pure Xbox, reports have emerged that two more Xbox first-party titles are already in development for PS5. Rumors also suggest that more announcements could be coming soon, potentially at the next Gamescom or Xbox Showcase.

For Sony, the sales success of Microsoft games presents a new challenge. On one hand, PlayStation benefits from game sales and user engagement. On the other, it risks being outpaced by multiplatform third-party titles at the expense of its own exclusives. The next few years may see both companies adjusting strategies as player behavior continues to evolve.

Final Thoughts

PlayStation’s Q2 2025 sales data has delivered a surprising but clear message. Xbox titles are not just doing well on PS5 they are leading the charts. Whether it is a remastered RPG, a new racing expansion, or a blockbuster shooter, Microsoft’s game library is capturing the attention and wallets of PlayStation players.

This trend signals a new era of competition, one where exclusivity is no longer the only path to success. And as more players choose content over consoles, the future of gaming may look more shared than ever before. For the full chart data and further analysis, you can view the original report at Circana and additional insights from Pure Xbox.