Xbox CEO Phil Spencer's Support for Nintendo Switch 2: A New Era of Gaming Collaboration?
Phil Spencer, CEO of Xbox, has publicly endorsed the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, even before its official 2025 launch. This unprecedented show of support signals a potential shift in the gaming landscape, emphasizing collaboration over exclusivity.
Xbox's Commitment to Switch 2 Ports
In a January 25, 2025 interview with Gamertag Radio, Spencer confirmed Xbox's intention to port multiple games to the Switch 2. He revealed positive communication with Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, expressing excitement for the new console and its potential. Spencer highlighted Nintendo's innovation and influence within the industry, emphasizing Xbox's commitment to supporting the platform with its game portfolio.
While specific titles weren't disclosed, the existing 10-year agreement between Microsoft and Nintendo (announced February 25, 2023), which guarantees simultaneous release of Call of Duty on Xbox and Switch with identical features, provides a strong foundation for this collaboration. This strategy, exemplified by existing ports of games like Grounded and Pertinent to competing platforms, aims to maximize Xbox's market reach.
Xbox's Multi-Platform Strategy and New Hardware
Spencer reiterated Xbox's ongoing development of new hardware, emphasizing the success of cross-platform games and the company's focus on creating a platform that caters to developers and players across various devices. The goal is to build a platform that empowers creators to reach audiences on any screen.
Expanding the Xbox Ecosystem
Further solidifying this multi-platform approach, Xbox launched a new marketing slogan, "This is an Xbox," on November 14, 2024. This campaign highlights Xbox's presence across diverse devices, from traditional consoles to unexpected items, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity. Partnerships with companies like Samsung, Crocs, and Porsche underscore this broad reach.
This strategy contrasts with competitors' focus on exclusivity. Xbox's commitment to porting games to rival consoles, including the Switch 2, demonstrates a clear intention to prioritize player accessibility and broaden its market presence.