Microsoft Expands Multiplatform Strategy: Halo and Flight Simulator Reportedly Coming to Nintendo Switch 2

Microsoft Expands Multiplatform Strategy: Halo and Flight Simulator Reportedly Coming to Nintendo Switch 2 In a significant development in the gaming industry, Microsoft is reportedly poised to further its multiplatform publishing strategy by bringing iconic franchises to rival platforms—most notably, Nintendo’s next-generation console, tentatively known as the Nintendo Switch 2.

According to reports corroborated by multiple industry insiders and verified sources, both Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 are in line for release on both PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch 2, broadening the reach of some of Xbox’s most celebrated titles. This strategic shift has been substantiated by Windows Central’s Jez Corden, who stated that the claims regarding these releases are "most likely true." Corden added that Microsoft intends to continue this multiplatform approach, suggesting further Xbox first-party titles could launch across additional platforms in the future.

Notably, Corden mentioned, "It appears Microsoft’s multiplatform ambitions extend beyond Halo and Flight Simulator, as titles such as Hellblade 2, Age of Mythology, and Gears of War 1 Ultimate Edition are also being prepared for release on PlayStation 5 in the coming year." The initial details surfaced during a podcast from well-known industry insider Nate the Hate, who has a history of accurate predictions—such as the announcement that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle would arrive on PlayStation following its Xbox debut.

Nate outlined that with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Halo: The Master Chief Collection, "any [Xbox] game that launches this year will eventually make its way to PlayStation 5 and/or Switch 2—it’s only a matter of when." He emphasized Microsoft’s intention to be a "big supporter of the upcoming Switch 2," including potential upgrades for existing Switch releases like Pentiment and Grounded. For Nintendo fans, the prospect of playing Halo: The Master Chief Collection is especially noteworthy.

Originally launched in 2014, The Master Chief Collection bundles Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Halo 2, Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, Halo 4, and Halo: Reach, consolidating over a decade of critically acclaimed first-person shooter history.

Bringing this collection to Switch 2 would mark a groundbreaking moment for both Microsoft and Nintendo, given Halo’s longstanding status as an Xbox-exclusive franchise.

Similarly, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is poised to push technical boundaries on new hardware, offering both accessibility and depth to a broader audience. Microsoft’s push towards multiplatform publishing comes amid challenges in growing the Xbox user base and reflects a larger industry trend toward platform-agnostic experiences.

While Nintendo has yet to officially unveil the Switch 2 or comment in detail on third-party partnerships, the momentum behind verified reports signals a new era of collaboration between console manufacturers. As the gaming community awaits an official Nintendo Direct with the anticipated reveal of the Switch 2, the implications of Microsoft’s strategy could redefine console exclusivity and market competition.

With leading franchises such as Halo and Microsoft Flight Simulator set to arrive on previously untapped hardware, both longtime Nintendo and Xbox fans have reason to celebrate a more connected future for gaming.

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