Xbox CEO Phil Spencer has publicly expressed his support for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, even before its official launch in 2025. This signals a significant step in the evolving relationship between Microsoft and Nintendo.
Xbox CEO's Support for the Switch 2
Xbox to Continue Porting Games to Nintendo Switch 2
In a January 25, 2025 interview with Gamertag Radio, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer announced plans to bring multiple Xbox games to the Nintendo Switch 2. This commitment predates the Switch 2's release, reflecting Spencer's confidence in Nintendo's success with the new hybrid console. He revealed an exchange of congratulatory emails with Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, commenting on the larger screen size of the upcoming console. Spencer praised Nintendo's innovation and influence within the gaming industry, expressing his enthusiasm to support Nintendo with Xbox game ports.
While specific titles weren't disclosed, this commitment builds upon an existing 10-year agreement between Microsoft and Nintendo, announced February 25, 2023, ensuring that Call of Duty will launch on Nintendo platforms simultaneously with Xbox releases, featuring identical content and functionality. Microsoft's strategy of bringing titles like Grounded and Pertinent to competing platforms, including the Switch and PlayStation, demonstrates a broader effort to expand its market reach. The enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2 are likely to further encourage the porting of additional Xbox games.
Xbox's Focus on Cross-Platform Development
Spencer reiterated Xbox's continued investment in new hardware development alongside its cross-platform initiatives. He highlighted the success of games available across multiple platforms and emphasized Xbox's goal of creating a platform that supports developers aiming for broad accessibility. The company is focused on building innovative hardware appealing to players across various devices and platforms, from handheld consoles to televisions and beyond. This commitment to accessibility contrasts with a strategy of exclusivity, prioritizing wider audience reach.
Expanding Xbox's Reach Across Multiple Devices
Xbox's new slogan, "This is an Xbox," launched November 14, 2024, reflects this strategy of expanding the Xbox experience beyond traditional consoles. Xbox Marketing senior director Craig McNary described the campaign as an invitation to play across multiple devices and screens. A humorous marketing campaign showcased diverse objects, highlighting the broad range of devices connected to the Xbox ecosystem. Partnerships with companies like Samsung, Crocs™, and Porsche further emphasize this commitment to expanding reach. This approach directly contrasts with competitors who focus on console-exclusive titles, instead emphasizing accessibility and broad platform support.
