Microsoft has recently adopted a new approach in its Xbox showcases, openly displaying that its games are coming to rival platforms like PlayStation 5. This shift is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its video game presence across multiple platforms. For instance, during the Xbox Developer Direct, games such as Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 were shown with logos for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, PC, and Game Pass. This marks a significant departure from Microsoft's previous showcase in June 2024, where Doom: The Dark Ages was announced for PlayStation 5 only after the Xbox event, and other titles like Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Diablo 4's Vessel of Hatred expansion, and Assassin's Creed Shadows were listed for Xbox Series X and S and PC, omitting the PS5.
In contrast, Sony and Nintendo maintain a different strategy. Sony's recent State of Play showcase, for example, did not mention Xbox, even for multiplatform games like Monster Hunter Wilds, which was shown with only the PS5 logo. Similarly, Sega's Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Onimusha: Way of the Sword were presented as coming to PS4 and PS5, despite also being available on other platforms like PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
In an interview with XboxEra, Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer addressed the inclusion of PlayStation logos in Xbox showcases. He emphasized the importance of transparency and honesty about where games are available. Spencer noted that discussions about including rival platform logos began last year but were not fully implemented due to timing and asset availability. He stressed that Microsoft wants to ensure gamers know where they can play their games, whether on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Steam, or other platforms, while still fostering the Xbox community across all screens.
Spencer acknowledged that not all platforms are equal, particularly in terms of capabilities like cloud services, but he believes that the focus should be on the games themselves. He sees this multiplatform strategy as a way to grow the gaming industry and allow more people to enjoy Microsoft's titles. As such, future Xbox showcases, such as the anticipated June 2025 event, are likely to feature logos for PS5 and possibly Nintendo Switch 2 alongside Xbox for games like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and the next Call of Duty.
However, don't expect Sony and Nintendo to adopt a similar approach anytime soon, as they continue to prioritize their own platforms in their marketing strategies.
