'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 appearances were limited or absent, even for titles announced as multiplatform. This change is exemplified by games like Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, all showcasing PS5 compatibility during the January 2025 Xbox Developer Direct.

This contrasts sharply with Sony and Nintendo's continued focus on their respective platforms. Recent showcases from both companies omitted mention of competing consoles, even for games released on multiple platforms. Monster Hunter Wilds, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Onimusha: Way of the Sword all highlighted PlayStation releases without mentioning Xbox or other platforms. This reinforces Sony's long-standing strategy of prioritizing its own consoles.

Xbox head Phil Spencer clarified this shift in an interview with XboxEra, emphasizing transparency and the goal of making games accessible across various platforms. He acknowledged the logistical challenges of including all platform logos in previous showcases but stressed the importance of clear communication about game availability. Spencer's vision prioritizes game accessibility over platform exclusivity, although he recognizes the inherent differences between open and closed platforms.

Consequently, future Xbox showcases are expected to include more PS5 and potentially Nintendo Switch 2 logos. This suggests that titles like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and Call of Duty could feature PS5 branding alongside Xbox in the upcoming June 2025 showcase. However, it's unlikely that Sony and Nintendo will reciprocate this approach.