'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 evolving multiplatform strategy is evident in its recent Xbox showcases, which now prominently feature PlayStation 5 logos alongside Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass. This marks a significant shift from Microsoft's June 2024 showcase, where PS5 announcements were often delayed or absent from initial reveals. This change is highlighted by examples such as Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, all showcased with PS5 inclusion in the January 2025 Xbox Developer Direct.

Contrast this with Sony and Nintendo, who maintain a more console-centric approach in their showcases. Recent State of Play events, for instance, omitted any mention of Xbox, even for multiplatform titles like Monster Hunter Wilds, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Onimusha: Way of the Sword. This underscores Sony's commitment to its established console-focused marketing strategy.

Xbox head Phil Spencer, in an interview with XboxEra, explained the rationale behind this change. He emphasized the importance of transparency and ensuring gamers know where to find Microsoft's games. While acknowledging platform differences, Spencer prioritized game accessibility above all else, stating that the strategy allows for broader reach and benefits game growth.

This shift suggests future Xbox showcases will likely feature PS5 and potentially Nintendo Switch 2 logos alongside Xbox titles. The upcoming June 2025 showcase could see games like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and Call of Duty displaying the PS5 logo alongside Xbox branding. However, it's unlikely Sony and Nintendo will reciprocate this approach.