Xbox’s Phil Spencer Shares Lengthy Video Message After Winning ‘Industry Icon’ Award

An event called the Grand Game Awards took place on Friday, celebrating “the best achievements in the gaming industry across the [Middle East and North Africa] region and beyond”, and Xbox boss Phil Spencer was recognised as being an “Industry Icon” as part of it.

Phil appeared in a video message to accept the award, insisting that although he was “honoured” to receive it, he feels it’s “really on behalf of all the Xbox team over many years”.

Here’s what Phil had to say, along with the video:

“Thank you to the Grand Game Awards for this honour. It’s truly special to join you as you broadcast from Algeria to the world. I’m grateful to be part of your celebration of games and the people who make and play them. I’m honoured to accept this Industry Icon Award. It has my name on it, but it’s really on behalf of the whole Xbox team over many years. The thousands of creators, developers, and all the teams and partners that show up every day, to serve players and empower developers.”

“At Xbox, our mission is simple; to bring the joy and community of gaming to more players, however and wherever they want to play. We’ve made real progress towards that goal, and we know there’s more opportunity ahead. We’ll keep listening to players, supporting creators and investing in choice. What drives us is the same thing that brings all of you together today; that moment when a great game invites you in, and makes you feel part of something bigger. Thank you again for this recognition and for everything you do to lift this industry. I’m honoured to share this with the team, and with the community that inspires us every day.”

For those who aren’t aware of Xbox’s history, Phil Spencer initially took over as Head of Xbox back in 2014 following the departure of Don Mattrick, and he’s remained in a similar position since — although these days he’s known as the Microsoft Gaming CEO.

Spencer has won numerous awards during his time as Xbox boss, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022 and an Andrew Yoon Legend Award in 2023, and we suspect there will be more to come over the next few years!