Microsoft is a no-show at Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, despite rumors of Xbox Switch 2 games

The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase demonstrated improved third-party support for the Switch 2 console. While publishers like Ubisoft and EA had a presence, Xbox Gaming didn't join them. Recently, The Game Business revealed that announcements about Xbox ports could come "within weeks". That has left some gamers confused as to why the two companies didn't make their partnership public at the Nintendo Direct.

Microsoft's lineup of cross-platform games is expanding, with Xbox titles enjoying strong sales on the PS5. Instead of developing exclusives for its Series X|S consoles, Xbox is targeting competing platforms. With the Nintendo Switch 2 setting retail records of its own, the handheld seems too alluring for Microsoft to ignore.

Phil Spencer has repeatedly confirmed Microsoft's interest in releasing Switch 2 games. As recent as April 2025, the Xbox Gaming CEO restated his position in a Variety interview. Halo, Call of Duty, and Starfield are among the Xbox games rumored to come to Nintendo's console. That only left the question of when gamers would learn about any potential ports.

Some fans expect another Nintendo Direct by September, which focuses on first-party Switch 2 games. It seems improbable, but Nintendo could make an exception with Xbox, considering the news would draw headlines.

Perhaps more likely is the August 20th Gamescom, where Xbox games will take center stage. On the other hand, a major attraction will be the Asus ROG Xbox Ally series. Even with different target markets, Microsoft may not want to bring attention to a competing handheld.

Another factor is how Nintendo prefers to control marketing involving its games and hardware. The company was one of the first major participants to abandon the E3 Expo. Then, despite being a partner at the latest Summer Game Fest, the show featured almost no Switch 2 games. Supporters worry that Gamescom 2025 may be equally disappointing, even with Nintendo attending.