Microsoft's evolving multiplatform strategy is evident in its recent Xbox showcases, where games are now prominently displayed as launching on rival consoles. This shift, unlike the June 2024 showcase which omitted PS5 logos for several titles (e.g., Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred, Assassin's Creed Shadows), is a marked change. The January 2025 showcase, however, included PS5 alongside Xbox, PC, and Game Pass for titles like Ninja Gaiden 4, Doom: The Dark Ages, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
This contrasts sharply with Sony and Nintendo's approach. Recent showcases from these companies, such as the State of Play, focused solely on their respective platforms, even for multiplatform titles like Monster Hunter Wilds, Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Onimusha: Way of the Sword. Sony's strategy remains consistent, emphasizing its own consoles.
Xbox head Phil Spencer clarified this change in an interview with XboxEra. He emphasized honesty and transparency, stating that the previous omission of logos in June 2024 was due to logistical constraints in asset preparation. Spencer's vision prioritizes game accessibility across all platforms, acknowledging differences in capabilities between open and closed ecosystems. He believes games should be the central focus, aiming for broader player reach.
This new transparency suggests future Xbox showcases will likely include PS5 and potentially Nintendo Switch 2 logos alongside Xbox for titles like Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Perfect Dark, State of Decay 3, and Call of Duty. However, Sony and Nintendo are unlikely to reciprocate this approach.
![Love and Ashes – New Version v24Oct2023 [EngelKuchKuch]](https://img.hpncn.com/uploads/62/1719586547667ecef3ca549.png)
