Microsoft has recently adopted a new approach in its Xbox showcases, openly displaying that its games are coming to rival platforms. This shift reflects the company's broader strategy to expand its video game presence across multiple platforms. For instance, during the Xbox Developer Direct, titles such as Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 showcased PlayStation 5 alongside Xbox Series X and S, PC, and Game Pass.
Contrastingly, at Microsoft's June 2024 showcase, the strategy was less consistent. Doom: The Dark Ages was announced for PlayStation 5 right after the Xbox event, with subsequent trailers featuring the PS5 logo. Meanwhile, BioWare's Dragon Age: The Veilguard was slated for Xbox Series X and S and PC, omitting the PS5 version. This was also the case for the Diablo 4 expansion Vessel of Hatred and Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows.
Sony and Nintendo maintain a different stance. The recent State of Play showcase, for example, did not mention Xbox at all, despite featuring multiplatform games. Monster Hunter Wilds concluded with only the PS5 logo and release date, omitting any mention of PC, Steam, or Xbox. Similarly, Sega's Shinobi: Art of Vengeance was shown for PS4 and PS5, despite also being available on PC via Steam, Xbox Series X and S, and Nintendo Switch. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and Onimusha: Way of the Sword followed the same pattern.
Sony continues to emphasize its console-centric approach, reinforcing the PlayStation as the focal point of its gaming ecosystem. Meanwhile, Microsoft's evolving strategy is mirrored in its marketing efforts, as evidenced by the inclusion of PS5 logos in its January 2025 showcase.
In an interview with XboxEra, Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer addressed the inclusion of PlayStation logos in Xbox showcases. He emphasized transparency about where games are available, stating, "I think it's just being honest and transparent about where the games are showing." Spencer highlighted the decision-making process for the June showcase, noting that logistical challenges prevented full implementation of the strategy at that time.
Spencer further explained Microsoft's approach, "People should know the storefronts where they can get our games, but I want people to be able to experience our Xbox community in our games and everything we have to offer, on every screen we can." He acknowledged the differences between platforms, particularly the limitations of closed systems compared to open platforms and cloud services. However, Spencer underscored that the focus should remain on the games themselves, stating, "I just believe games should be the thing that's at the forefront."
With this strategy in place, it's likely that future Xbox showcases, such as the anticipated June 2025 event, will feature logos for PS5 and potentially the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 alongside Xbox. Titles like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and the next Call of Duty might all bear the PS5 logo. However, don't expect Sony and Nintendo to adopt a similar approach in their marketing strategies.
