'I Know It's Not What Everybody Else Is Doing' — Xbox Boss Phil Spencer Will Keep on Putting PlayStation and Nintendo Logos in Microsoft Showcases

Microsoft's recent Xbox showcases have notably included logos for rival platforms, signaling a significant shift in their multiplatform gaming strategy. This change, evident in recent months, marks a departure from previous practices. For instance, the January 2025 Xbox Developer Direct showcased Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, prominently featuring PlayStation 5 alongside Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass.

This contrasts sharply with Microsoft's June 2024 showcase, where PlayStation 5 announcements were handled separately, even for titles like Doom: The Dark Ages. Games such as Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Diablo 4's Vessel of Hatred expansion, and Assassin's Creed Shadows were initially presented as Xbox Series X|S and PC exclusives.

Conversely, Sony and Nintendo maintain a different approach. Their recent showcases, such as the State of Play, omitted mention of Xbox, even for multiplatform titles. Games like Monster Hunter Wilds, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Onimusha: Way of the Sword were exclusively showcased as PlayStation releases, despite availability on other platforms. Sony's strategy underscores their continued focus on PlayStation consoles.

In an interview with XboxEra, Phil Spencer explained this shift. He emphasized the goal of transparency regarding game availability, stating that the June 2024 omission was due to logistical constraints. Spencer clarified that Microsoft aims to showcase their games on all available platforms, acknowledging differences between "open" and "closed" platforms. He reiterated a focus on games themselves, emphasizing that their strategy enables broader reach, allowing more players to experience their titles.

Consequently, future Xbox showcases are expected to feature PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2 logos. The anticipated June 2025 showcase might include titles like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and the latest Call of Duty, all showcasing PS5 alongside Xbox. However, it's unlikely that Sony and Nintendo will reciprocate this approach.