How Skipping the Switch 2 Direct Could Affect Microsoft’s Xbox Event in June

Last year, Microsoft unveiled a new strategy targeting multiple platforms, sparking widespread speculation about whether former Xbox-exclusive titles might appear on the Nintendo Switch 2. A few insiders with credible reputations suggested that Microsoft intended to introduce Switch 2 versions of “Halo: The Master Chief Collection” and “Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024” by the end of the year. Others even hinted that “Sea of Thieves” and “Forza Horizon 5” might also make an appearance. This led many experts to predict a strong Microsoft presence at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event.

Despite the buzz, when the Switch 2 Direct unfolded last week, Microsoft-related announcements were conspicuously scarce. The only Xbox first-party game showcased was “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4.” While technically a Microsoft-owned game, its inclusion wasn’t entirely unexpected since it was already slated for release across all modern gaming platforms, including the original Nintendo Switch. Those eager to see more of Microsoft’s offerings at the Direct might have felt let down, however, there’s still a chance that unexpected multiplatform announcements could surface at Microsoft’s own event in June, the Xbox showcase.

Looking ahead, Microsoft revealed its annual Xbox Games Showcase is scheduled for June 8, 2025. While details about the event remain sparse, the company did promise an in-depth look at Obsidian Entertainment’s upcoming sci-fi RPG, “The Outer Worlds 2.” Although they didn’t explicitly mention Xbox exclusives, insiders believe the event will highlight various games across different platforms, which wouldn’t be a departure from recent trends.

Earlier this year, during the Xbox Developer Direct, Microsoft introduced five games coming to Xbox Game Pass. They took an unusual step by acknowledging that many would also be available on the PS5, breaking from their usual practice of excluding such information. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, stated that moving forward, players should anticipate seeing PlayStation and Nintendo logos at Xbox events as the company strives to be more transparent about game availability.

Microsoft has vowed to support the Nintendo Switch 2, with Phil expressing enthusiasm about the console’s potential. He also looks forward to introducing annual titles like “Call of Duty” to Nintendo’s new system once it launches, thanks to a fresh 10-year deal with Nintendo.

Considering these developments, players might expect to see both Switch 2 and PS5 logos at the upcoming Xbox Showcase, even on major first-party titles like “Halo” and “Gears.” Microsoft’s earlier limited support for the original Switch was primarily due to hardware constraints. However, with the more powerful Switch 2 set to hit the market, it’s likely that most Xbox games will run smoothly on Nintendo’s upcoming console, opening a new chapter in gaming collaborations.