Microsoft's evolving multiplatform strategy is evident in its recent Xbox showcases, where games are now explicitly shown as launching on competing consoles like the PlayStation 5. This marks a significant shift from previous showcases, such as the June 2024 event, where PlayStation 5 releases were often announced separately or omitted entirely from initial reveals. The January 2025 showcase, however, included PS5 logos alongside Xbox, PC, and Game Pass announcements for titles like Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
This contrasts sharply with Sony and Nintendo's approach. Their showcases, like the recent State of Play, typically focus solely on their own platforms, even for multiplatform titles. Games like Monster Hunter Wilds and Shinobi: Art of Vengeance were showcased without mention of Xbox or other platforms.
Xbox head Phil Spencer clarified this change in strategy, stating that the goal is transparency about game availability. He acknowledged the logistical challenges of including all platform logos in previous showcases but emphasized the importance of letting players know where they can access Xbox games. While acknowledging platform differences, he prioritized showcasing games themselves, believing broader accessibility benefits game growth.
This newfound transparency suggests future Xbox showcases will likely feature PS5 and potentially Nintendo Switch 2 logos alongside Xbox for titles like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and the upcoming Call of Duty. However, it's unlikely Sony and Nintendo will reciprocate this approach.
