Microsoft and Nintendo have just announced a historic new agreement that could potentially revolutionize the gaming industry. The two companies have entered into a partnership, where Microsoft will publish the blockbuster Call of Duty franchise for Nintendo Switch, alongside PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
This deal marks the first time that a major Call of Duty game, which has been exclusive to PlayStation and Xbox since its inception, will be available on a Nintendo platform. The implications of this could see major console rivalries become less important as gaming becomes more platform-agnostic.
Call of Duty is one of the biggest gaming franchises, and its availability on the Nintendo Switch will create a larger player base with more access to the title. This could mean that Nintendo, who historically has struggled to secure third-party titles, will benefit from increased attention and sales as a result.
Microsoft and Nintendo have been rivals in the console market for over two decades. However, this agreement reflects a change in the industry towards collaboration rather than competition. Gamers won’t have to worry about missing out on the latest releases from their favorite franchises just because they own a different console.
Microsoft is also looking to increase their presence in the mobile and handheld console market. The Switch, which has outsold both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X since launch, provides them with the perfect opportunity to reach more players.
The news comes at a time when both companies are looking to expand their user bases. Microsoft’s recent capture of Bethesda, the publisher of popular franchises like Elder Scrolls, Fallout and more, further reflects the company’s shift towards content diversification.
For both companies, it’s a win-win situation. Nintendo will benefit from an influx of larger, more popular titles, while Microsoft will get access to a larger and more diverse group of consumers. Microsoft’s goal to become ‘platform-agnostic’ looks set to be achieved with the introduction of the latest Call of Duty on the Switch.
