Xbox Brings First-Party Games to Nintendo Switch 2: Xbox Game Studios Emphasizes Multiplatform Strategy

Xbox Game Studios Expands Multiplatform Presence, Bringing First-Party Games to Nintendo Switch 2 As the gaming industry grows increasingly interconnected, Xbox Game Studios has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the reach of its acclaimed first-party titles beyond the Xbox ecosystem.

The announcement comes in the wake of Microsoft’s broader multiplatform strategy, which now includes support for Nintendo’s upcoming hardware, the Nintendo Switch 2.

This move marks a significant shift in how Microsoft’s gaming division approaches platform exclusivity and collaboration across the industry. Background: Expanding the Xbox Ecosystem The initiative to bring more Xbox games to additional platforms, such as Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, reflects Microsoft’s renewed focus on breaking down barriers for players worldwide.

This shift began in earnest during 2023 when four high-profile titles—Hi-Fi RUSH, Sea of Thieves, Pentiment, and Grounded—made their way to platforms outside of Xbox for the first time.

More recently, Microsoft has confirmed further multiplatform releases, including Age of Mythology: Retold, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Forza Horizon 5, solidifying this bold new direction. Xbox Game Studios' Leadership on Multiplatform Games Speaking during a recent 'Xbox Game Studios update,' head of Xbox Game Studios Craig Duncan praised Nintendo’s continued innovation, noting the excitement within his team following the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Duncan highlighted that expanding to other platforms isn’t just about company growth; it’s about fostering a more inclusive gaming community.

"We think it's beneficial for both gamers and our studios.

Our development teams produce outstanding games, and giving those creations the opportunity to reach more players worldwide is always a priority.

Looking back at when I oversaw Sea of Thieves, one of the most rewarding aspects was seeing the game connect with broader audiences after launching on multiple platforms—and removing barriers, so more players could experience it together.

It's a positive move for everyone involved, especially as we bring our games to even more places," Duncan explained. Recent Milestones and Future Collaboration Microsoft’s multiplatform journey gained additional momentum following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard—a deal which paved the way for the return of the Call of Duty franchise to Nintendo platforms.

This collaboration ensures that upcoming Call of Duty titles will be accessible to Nintendo Switch and, in the near future, Switch 2 users.

With over 100 million Nintendo Switch consoles sold worldwide, Microsoft’s move dramatically increases the potential audience for its flagship franchises. The Road Ahead for Nintendo and Xbox Fans As both companies look to the horizon, fans have much to anticipate with the arrival of Nintendo Switch 2 and a growing library of Xbox games available on Nintendo hardware.

With strong leadership from Xbox Game Studios and enthusiastic support from Microsoft, the era of platform exclusivity is evolving, aiming for a gaming landscape centered around accessibility and player choice.

Stay tuned for further updates on new releases, eShop launches, and collaborative announcements from future Nintendo Direct events.

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