Microsoft's recent Xbox showcases have notably included logos for rival platforms, marking a significant shift in their multiplatform gaming strategy. This change, evident in recent months, showcases games on PlayStation 5 alongside Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass. For example, the Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 segments of the Xbox Developer Direct all featured the PS5 logo.
This contrasts sharply with Microsoft's June 2024 showcase, where the PS5 was omitted from initial announcements, even for titles like Doom: The Dark Ages, though later trailers rectified this. Similarly, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Diablo 4's Vessel of Hatred expansion, and Assassin's Creed Shadows initially excluded PS5.
In contrast, Sony and Nintendo's showcases maintain a platform-centric approach. Recent State of Play presentations, for instance, featured multiplatform titles like Monster Hunter Wilds and Shinobi: Art of Vengeance without mentioning Xbox, PC, or other platforms. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and Onimusha: Way of the Sword followed the same pattern. Sony's strategy reinforces its consoles as the focal point of the PlayStation ecosystem.
In an interview with XboxEra, Phil Spencer explained this shift. He emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that the previous omission of PS5 logos in the June 2024 showcase was due to logistical challenges in acquiring all necessary assets. Spencer clarified that Microsoft aims to clearly communicate where their games will be available, including PlayStation, Steam, and Nintendo Switch, while simultaneously promoting the Xbox community and its offerings across all platforms. He acknowledged that platform capabilities vary, but reiterated the focus on making games accessible to a broader audience.
This newfound transparency suggests future Xbox showcases will likely include PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2 logos. Therefore, Microsoft's June 2025 showcase might feature titles like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and the upcoming Call of Duty with PS5 branding alongside Xbox. However, it's unlikely that Sony and Nintendo will reciprocate this approach.
