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 Port Games to the Nintendo Switch 2
In a January 25, 2025 interview on Gamertag Radio, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer confirmed Xbox's commitment to bringing multiple games to the Nintendo Switch 2. He revealed proactive engagement with Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, even congratulating him and expressing excitement about the Switch 2's larger screen. Spencer highlighted Nintendo's innovation and importance within the gaming industry, emphasizing Xbox's eagerness to support the platform with its game portfolio.
While specific titles weren't named, this commitment builds upon the existing 10-year agreement between Microsoft and Nintendo, announced February 25, 2023, which guarantees the release of Call of Duty on Nintendo platforms simultaneously with Xbox releases, featuring full feature and content parity. This strategy aligns with Xbox's current practice of porting games like Grounded and Pertinent to competing platforms (Switch and PlayStation), demonstrating a focus on expanding market reach. Given the Switch 2's enhanced capabilities, a broader range of Xbox games may become available on Nintendo's new hybrid console.
Xbox's Focus on Cross-Platform Development
Spencer reiterated Xbox's ongoing development of new hardware, emphasizing the success of games available across multiple platforms. He underscored the importance of creating a platform that supports developers aiming for broad accessibility. The goal is to build innovative hardware appealing to players across various devices – handhelds, televisions, and beyond. This strategy prioritizes reaching a wider audience rather than restricting game availability.
Expanding Xbox's Reach Across Devices
Xbox's November 14, 2024 marketing campaign, spearheaded by senior director Craig McNary, introduced the slogan "This is an Xbox," emphasizing the platform's expansion across diverse devices. This campaign playfully illustrates the breadth of Xbox's reach, highlighting partnerships with companies like Samsung, Crocs™, and Porsche. This contrasts with competitors' strategies, showcasing Xbox's commitment to making its games accessible to a wider player base regardless of platform.
