Xbox Boss Backs Switch 2 Game Releases

Xbox CEO Phil Spencer has publicly expressed his support for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, even before its official launch in 2025. This signals a significant move in the relationship between Microsoft and Nintendo.

Xbox CEO's Support for the Switch 2

Xbox to Port Games to the Nintendo Switch 2

In a January 25, 2025 interview with Gamertag Radio, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer announced plans to bring multiple Xbox games to the Nintendo Switch 2. He'd already pledged this support before the console's release, anticipating Nintendo's success. Spencer revealed email exchanges with Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, expressing congratulations and noting his appreciation for the Switch 2's larger screen. He praised Nintendo's innovation and stated his excitement to support them with Xbox game ports, highlighting Nintendo's importance in the gaming industry.

While specific titles weren't mentioned, this commitment builds upon Microsoft's existing 10-year agreement with Nintendo (announced February 25, 2023), ensuring "Call of Duty will come to Nintendo players—the same day as Xbox, with full feature and content parity," as stated by Microsoft President Brad Smith. Xbox's current strategy of bringing games like Grounded and Pertinent to competing platforms, including the Switch and PlayStation, demonstrates a broader aim to expand its market reach. The increased power of the Switch 2 likely makes it an even more attractive platform for future Xbox ports.

Xbox's Focus on Cross-Platform Development

Spencer also reiterated Xbox's ongoing development of new hardware, emphasizing that games performing well across multiple platforms are the most successful. He highlighted Xbox's goal of creating a platform that serves creators aiming for broad audience reach. Spencer's vision includes innovative hardware appealing to players across various devices, from handhelds to televisions and beyond. This strategy prioritizes accessibility over exclusivity, making Xbox games available to a wider audience.

Expanding Xbox's Reach Across Devices

Xbox's November 14, 2024 marketing campaign, with the slogan "This is an Xbox," emphasizes its expansion across various devices. Xbox Marketing senior director Craig McNary described the campaign as inviting players to experience Xbox on multiple screens and devices. The campaign's humorous approach, showcasing diverse objects (remote controls, laptops, even a cat box!), underscores Xbox's broad reach. Partnerships with companies like Samsung, Crocs™, and Porsche further solidify this strategy.

In contrast to competitors focusing on exclusive titles, Xbox's approach prioritizes porting games to rival consoles, maximizing player accessibility and demonstrating a commitment to a more open and inclusive gaming ecosystem.