Reggie “Surprised” More Xbox Games Aren’t on Switch 2
▼ Summary
– Microsoft has publicly expressed support for Switch and Switch 2 but has released limited major titles like Tony Hawk’s and Indiana Jones so far.
– Reggie Fils-Aimé expressed surprise that Xbox hasn’t fully embraced Switch 2 with more software ports, expecting more announcements leading into the holiday season.
– He noted that some Xbox games, such as Gears of War and Halo, could easily be ported to Switch 2, especially as they are appearing on other platforms like PS5.
– Reggie found Nintendo’s initial Switch 2 software lineup confusing but later acknowledged the appeal of enhanced Switch 1 content and free offerings via Nintendo Switch Online.
– He highlighted that Bananza and the enhanced content helped drive momentum for the Switch 2, despite his initial underestimation of their impact.
Over the past couple of years, Microsoft has repeatedly expressed enthusiasm for bringing its games to Nintendo platforms, including the Switch 2. While titles like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 and the upcoming Indiana Jones and the Great Circle are confirmed, many fans and industry watchers are questioning the absence of blockbuster Xbox franchises. Reggie Fils-Aimé, the former president of Nintendo of America, recently shared his own surprise at the limited Xbox presence on the new console.
During a conversation with The Game Business, Reggie noted that he anticipated a stronger software commitment from Microsoft by now. He remarked, “I’m surprised that Xbox has not yet fully embraced Switch 2 from a software perspective,” adding that several games could be smoothly adapted to the platform. Reggie specifically expected more announcements during the holiday season, stating, “All through the fall, I was fully expecting some dedicated announcement. And I’m surprised it hasn’t happened.”
This sentiment comes as other major Xbox-owned series find homes on competing hardware. Gears of War: Reloaded recently launched on PlayStation 5, and Halo: Campaign Evolved is scheduled to arrive there next year. Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, has frequently emphasized his interest in supporting Nintendo systems, making the current situation even more puzzling to observers like Reggie.
Despite his surprise at Microsoft’s approach, Reggie clarified that he isn’t disappointed with the Switch 2’s overall software offerings. He did admit, however, that Nintendo’s own lineup initially confused him from a business standpoint. “When I first saw that lineup, I scratched my head a little bit,” he said, referencing unexpected releases like Kirby Air Riders.
He went on to acknowledge that he had underestimated the appeal of enhanced Nintendo Switch 1 content available through the online subscription service. “What I underestimated was the enhanced Nintendo Switch 1 content, which I think has been compelling,” Reggie explained. He highlighted that these updates, offered at no extra cost to subscribers, have helped maintain momentum for the platform. He also pointed to Bananza as a significant driver for the system’s early success.
In the wider interview, Reggie also delved into topics like the ongoing console competition, the impressive sales performance of the Switch 2, and his outlook on the future direction of the video game industry.
(Source: Nintendo Life)
