How Microsoft’s Absence from the Switch 2 Direct Could Influence the Xbox Event in June

Last year, Microsoft set the gaming world abuzz with its announcement to expand its business model across multiple platforms. This strategic shift led to a flurry of speculation regarding the possibility of Xbox games making their way to the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. Reliable sources had even hinted at potential releases of games like “Halo: The Master Chief Collection” and “Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024” for the new Nintendo console. In the mix were also “Sea of Thieves” and “Forza Horizon 5.” With so much chatter, it seemed certain Microsoft would make a splash at the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event.

However, the event came and went without much presence from Microsoft, much to the surprise of many. The only Xbox title that popped up was “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4,” which wasn’t entirely unexpected since its release on all major platforms had already been announced. While some may have felt let down by this absence, there’s still hope on the horizon. Microsoft could be planning to unveil exciting news of cross-platform releases at their forthcoming June Xbox showcase.

Excitement continues to build as Microsoft gears up for its annual Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025. Although details are sparse, the company will provide in-depth coverage of Obsidian Entertainment’s anticipated game, “The Outer Worlds 2.” Significantly, Microsoft hinted at showcasing both upcoming first- and third-party games without specifying any Xbox exclusive titles, suggesting a focus on multi-platform releases. This aligns with their strategy of transparency, ensuring players know where they can access these games.

In a recent Xbox Developer Direct, Microsoft showcased several games heading to Xbox Game Pass. Notably, most of these titles were set for multiple platforms, including the PS5, a revelation they usually withhold. According to Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, moving forward, players can expect to see PlayStation and Nintendo logos alongside Xbox at future showcases. He emphasized the company’s commitment to transparency about game availability.

Outside of the Developer Direct, commitments have been made to release some titles on the Nintendo Switch 2. Spencer expressed enthusiasm about backing Nintendo’s upcoming console, highlighting a strong belief in its potential success. The partnership’s first fruit could potentially be the latest installment of “Call of Duty,” following a 10-year agreement to bring the series to both the current Switch and its successor.

With Phil Spencer’s comments in mind, it’s reasonable to anticipate the appearance of many Switch 2 and PS5 logos in the Xbox showcase, even for major releases like “Halo” and “Gears.” The original Switch faced limitations with Xbox titles due to its hardware constraints, but the upgraded Switch 2 should have the capacity to handle the majority, if not all, of Microsoft’s expansive game library.