Microsoft's online games service Xbox Live has seen increased demand due to the coronavirus.
As confirmed in a tweet (below) from Xbox chief Phil Spencer (pictured), Xbox Live "usage is up on almost everything." The Big M's games chief boss thanked the online service teams that are meeting the demand in usage.
"It's heartening to hear from so many people using gaming as a way to stay connected during these times," said Spencer.
"Play is a fundamental human need. Proud to be part of an industry that can offer escape and fun right now. Stay safe.
"Thanks go out to all the Ops/IT teams at all the companies that are working hard to keep everything running smoothly with all going on around them."
Many people are self-isolating and staying at home due to lockdowns over the Covid-19 outbreak. With so many people being at home, an increase in the use of online services was bound to happen.
The pandemic has caused a variety of events to be cancelled, last month GDC 2020 was postponed. As a result, Microsoft will stream the content it had prepared for the event. Earlier this month, E3 was also cancelled due to Covid-19. A range of companies, including Microsoft and Ubisoft, are looking into Digital events as a replacement for the ESA's event.
Microsoft Bungie, Facebook, Google and others have asked their employees to work from home. Two Microsoft employees have contracted the coronavirus.
It's heartening to hear from so many people using gaming as a way to stay connected during these times. Play is a fundamental human need. Proud to be part of an industry that can offer escape and fun right now. Stay safe. https://t.co/1TOjzYLHeD
— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) March 15, 2020