Phil Spencer insists Japan has always been an important market for Microsoft

The Xbox brand has never been particularly strong in Japan, but that doesn't mean Microsoft Studios doesn't view the country as an important market, corporate vice president Phil Spencer argues.

The platform holder initially made a strong effort to curry favor with Japanese audiences, publishing role-playing games Lost Odyssey and Blue Dragon. Though that level of support has waned in recent years, it may see an upsurge with the impending release of Xbox One.

“Some time ago, [Xbox Japan general manager Takashi] Sensui and I met with a few Japanese developers to discuss Xbox One development," Spencer told Famitsu. "As a matter of fact, we are thinking of developing a few exclusive titles in cooperation with Japanese developers. I believe those titles will be announced closer to (the Japanese) launch.

“Locally developed content really is important. Especially considering Japan is the place where video games originated.” Spencer asserts the new console received a "wonderful reaction" from Japanese developers and his company is “looking forward to partnerships with new developers on Xbox One.”

The Xbox One will release in Japan sometime during 2014.

Xbox Oneを“完全な形”で提供するために、日本市場2014年発売は必須だった――マイクロソフトのキーパーソン、フィル・スペンサー氏に聞 [Famitsu via Gematsu]