Rumors involving a purported “blocking deal” between Microsoft and Atlus have surfaced, suggesting the agreement may have restricted the release of the Persona franchise on Nintendo platforms. While podcast hosts @Attackdabacklog and @NWeedle claimed Atlus intends to move away from such arrangements, journalist Jez Corden has dismissed the reports as “absolutely false.”
What is the rumored Microsoft-Atlus blocking deal?
According to details shared during a recent podcast by @Attackdabacklog and @NWeedle, Microsoft and Atlus reportedly entered into a specific agreement to bolster Microsoft’s presence in the Japanese market. The participants claimed this deal included a “blocking” component designed to ensure Atlus titles arrived on Xbox Game Pass as Day One releases.
The rumor suggests this arrangement specifically targeted the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The participants alleged that the agreement prevented the announcement or release of major Atlus titles, such as those in the Persona series, on Nintendo hardware. This theory attempts to explain why titles like Persona 4 Revival and the newly announced Persona 6 lack confirmed Nintendo Switch 2 versions.
While Persona 6 is confirmed for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC, it currently has no announced release date or confirmed availability for Nintendo platforms.
Why are industry insiders disputing these claims?
The reports have met immediate skepticism from established industry voices. Journalist Jez Corden addressed the speculation directly, stating that the claims regarding Microsoft blocking Atlus from the Nintendo Switch 2 are “absolutely false.”
This creates a direct contradiction between the reports from the @Attackdabacklog and @NWeedle podcast and the findings of Corden. Currently, there is no official documentation or statement from Microsoft or Atlus to verify the existence of a blocking agreement or the subsequent decision by Atlus to decline a renewal.
How could shifting publisher-platform relations affect future releases?
The podcast participants suggested that Atlus has already indicated to new Xbox leadership that they do not wish to renew such an agreement.
| Source | Claim/Stance |
|---|---|
| @Attackdabacklog & @NWeedle | Alleged a Microsoft deal blocked Atlus from Switch 2; claims Atlus wants to end it. |
| Jez Corden | Categorically stated the rumors are “absolutely false.” |
When tracking platform exclusivity rumors, always distinguish between “leaks” from podcasts and verified reporting from journalists with direct access to corporate communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Persona 6 coming to Nintendo Switch 2?
There is currently no official confirmation regarding a Nintendo Switch 2 version of Persona 6. The game is currently announced for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC.
Did Microsoft block Atlus games from Nintendo?
While rumors from @Attackdabacklog and @NWeedle suggest such a deal existed, journalist Jez Corden has stated these claims are false.
What platforms is Persona 6 available on?
Atlus has announced Persona 6 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC.
What do you think about these rumors? Do you believe Atlus titles will eventually land on Nintendo’s next console? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest industry updates.
