Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has expressed his desire to bring major Nintendo franchises, such as Pokémon and Mario, to the Xbox platform. In an email from August 2020, Spencer referred to Nintendo as the “prime asset” in gaming and believed that a partnership would benefit both companies.
However, Spencer acknowledged that the likelihood of such a collaboration is low, as Nintendo is financially strong and not open to hostile takeovers. He emphasized that Microsoft is playing the long game and would only pursue a partnership if the opportunity arises.
Despite the challenges, Spencer revealed that the Microsoft board of directors is fully supportive of a potential Nintendo alliance. While fans may be excited about the prospect, it is important to note that no concrete plans have been announced.
A partnership between Microsoft and Nintendo would be groundbreaking, as it would allow Microsoft to enter the handheld gaming market and provide Nintendo with access to more powerful consoles. The possibilities for crossovers and collaborations between their iconic franchises are endless, including the integration of Master Chief from Halo into Super Smash Bros and a crossover between Halo and Splatoon.
Furthermore, a true open-world Pokémon game utilizing the capabilities of the Xbox Series X would be a dream come true for many gamers. Microsoft’s interest in Nintendo is understandable, given the latter’s long-standing presence in the industry and its valuable intellectual properties.
Nintendo has been expanding its reach beyond traditional gaming, with ventures such as a Super Mario movie and a theme park in Asia. This diversification has strengthened Nintendo’s position against competitors like Microsoft and Sony.
In conclusion, while a partnership between Microsoft and Nintendo would be a significant development in the gaming industry, it remains uncertain whether it will come to fruition. Both companies have much to gain from such a collaboration, but the current circumstances make it unlikely. Nonetheless, fans can still hope for exciting possibilities in the future.
Source: DOTESPORTS
