The console war seems to be winding down, or at least cooling off for now, as Xbox and PlayStation exchange games on August 26, 2025. The rivalry between Xbox and PlayStation goes way back to the days when they started releasing consoles. The competition to always be one-up on the other has always been cutthroat between these two. Although this isn’t the first time a game swap is happening between the two, what makes this one special is that it’s happening on the same day and within the same genre. Let’s explore more about this Xbox and PlayStation game exchange below.
Xbox and PlayStation Swap Games
The rivalry between Xbox and PlayStation began in the early 2000s, but as the gaming industry evolves, their competition seems to be cooling down gradually. This started in 2018 when both companies introduced cross-play, allowing players on both consoles to play together.
In 2024, Xbox released some of its first-party titles on PlayStation, but the reverse hasn’t happened yet. These aren’t exactly swaps but represent a trend of each platform publishing titles on the other’s hardware, breaking the norm of exclusivity. These exchanges give gamers more options and help grow communities.
Having a game available on multiple platforms helps it reach more players worldwide and generate more revenue. Over time, consoles have shifted their focus towards providing gaming services and sharing content across ecosystems rather than just competing.
Helldivers 2 on Xbox
Helldivers 2 will launch on Xbox Series X|S on August 26, marking the game’s debut on a new platform. The chosen date, a Tuesday, aligns with Arrowhead Game Studios’ usual schedule for releasing updates. This has led to speculation that the Xbox launch might be tied to a significant event or update in the game.
Leaks hint at future content, including new Illuminate enemy units and the planet New Cyberstan, though the latter might not come soon. Fans expect a major response from the Illuminate faction after defending Super Earth, which could coincide with the Xbox launch or a subsequent update.
This third-person shooter will be available in two editions, Standard and Super Citizen. To learn more about the editions, pre-order bonuses, and whether it will be on Xbox Game Pass, check out this blog.
Gears of War Reloaded on PlayStation
The Xbox exclusive that’s arriving on PlayStation for the first time is Gears of War Reloaded. Originally released in late 2006 for Xbox 360, Reloaded is a remaster with major visual and technical upgrades, while keeping the core gameplay intact. It will also feature full multiplayer with cross-play support and all previous DLC content.
This action-shooter will be available on PlayStation starting August 26, 2025. It has recently been one of the top pre-order titles on the PS5 charts in the US and UK, ahead of major releases like Death Stranding 2 and College Football 26.
Other Xbox Exclusives on PlayStation
Xbox exclusives on PlayStation 5 include:
- Hi-Fi Rush
- Indiana Jones and The Great Circle
- Pentiment
- Grounded
- Sea of Thieves
- Forza Horizon 5
- Elder Scrolls: Oblivion Remastered
Xbox is also gearing up to release several high-profile shooters, including The Outer Worlds 2, Clockwork Revolution, High on Life 2, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, most of which are confirmed for PlayStation 5 too.
Summary
On August 26, 2025, Xbox and PlayStation will exchange games, marking a major shift in the console rivalry. The Xbox release of Helldivers 2 on Xbox Series X|S, together with Gears of War Reloaded on PlayStation, signifies the expansion of popular third-person shooters to new platforms. These exchanges tend to influence the gaming industry gradually and give gamers more choices.
What are your thoughts on this Xbox and PlayStation game exchange? Let us know in the comments below. And for more gaming news, guides, tips, and more, check out Driffle Blog.
