Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella: Gaming's True Rival Is Short-Form Video, Not Competing Consoles

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has provided new insights into the company’s evolving approach to the gaming industry, emphasizing that the sector’s main source of competition is no longer other gaming platforms, but the surge in short-form video content.

This perspective sheds light on Microsoft's cross-platform publishing ambitions and its focus on reaching broader audiences, including those on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation systems. Building on previous statements by Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer—who recently reaffirmed Xbox's commitment to supporting Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5 players—Nadella spoke with TBPN about Microsoft’s shifting business model.

He articulated the goal for Microsoft to establish itself as a premier publisher on every major platform, a strategy that gained momentum following the company’s monumental acquisition of Activision Blizzard. "In becoming the largest publisher as a result of the Activision acquisition, our focus is on delivering top-quality titles across all platforms," Nadella explained in the interview.

He drew a comparison to Microsoft’s historic Office strategy, stating: "We want to mirror our approach with Office—being present everywhere, regardless of whether it's consoles, PC, mobile devices, cloud gaming, or even smart TVs.

Our ambition is for players to enjoy our games no matter where they are." As Microsoft expands its reach, it remains committed to its own hardware ecosystem.

Reports indicate that Microsoft is advancing development of its next-generation gaming platforms, which aim to further blur the lines between PC and traditional consoles.

Nadella reinforced this direction, providing context for the company’s vision: "The real competition for gaming isn’t other gaming platforms—it’s short-form video.

For the industry to stay ahead, we must continue to innovate in production and distribution, and ensure sustainable business models to fund that innovation." These statements come on the heels of Xbox’s significant announcement that the Halo franchise will debut on PlayStation for the first time—an unprecedented move for the iconic series.

Nintendo fans will also see expanded support through Microsoft-owned franchises, with Bethesda’s Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Fallout 4 both slated for release on the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. With the close of the Activision Blizzard acquisition and a renewed focus on multi-platform growth, Microsoft is positioning itself to thrive in an entertainment landscape increasingly shaped by new forms of content consumption.

The company’s willingness to extend its flagship titles to platforms like Nintendo Switch and PlayStation signals a significant shift in strategy, marking a new era for Microsoft as both a platform-holder and a leading third-party publisher.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo PlayStation Microsoft Switch Satya Nadella Phil Spencer Xbox Activision Halo Bethesda Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Fallout 4 Switch 2 TBPN