Xbox’s head of game studios, Matt Booty, appeared on the latest episode of the Official Xbox Podcast to discuss the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase, Forza, Call of Duty, and more. The conversation, which went live on May 29, 2026, offers a rare direct look at how one of Microsoft’s top gaming executives is thinking about the platform’s biggest brands and its summer showcase event.
Who Is Matt Booty?
Booty serves as president of game content and studios at Xbox, overseeing all first-party development across more than two dozen studios, including Bethesda, 343 Industries, Turn 10, and Activision teams. His public appearances are typically short on specifics but heavy on strategic direction, making the podcast a valuable signal for what Xbox is prioritizing heading into the back half of 2026.
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What Was Discussed?
The podcast episode title suggests Booty covered the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase, which historically has taken place in June. While the full episode is available for listeners to dive into, the official description highlights three key topics: the showcase lineup, the future of the Forza franchise, and how Call of Duty fits into the Xbox roadmap.
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Forza remains one of Xbox’s most reliable pillars, with Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon acting as technical showcases for the platform. Any comment from Booty on the series could hint at DLC, a new entry, or expanded cross-platform plans. As for Call of Duty, Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard turned the franchise into a first-party tentpole overnight. Booty’s remarks likely touched on integration with Game Pass, future content plans, and how the studio structure has evolved under Xbox leadership.
GamerHeadlines Takeaway
When the person running all of Xbox’s studios uses a public platform to name specific games, it’s worth paying attention. The podcast won’t contain detailed announcements, but it provides a lens into the thinking that shapes upcoming showcases and release strategies. For anyone tracking Xbox’s summer plans, this episode is essential listening.
