Katarzyna Petru
It appears that Microsoft wants to go all in with the next generation of consoles. Unofficial information suggests that the release of the new Xbox is planned for the end of 2027, potentially even a year or two ahead of PlayStation 6. If reports of the PS6 being delayed to 2028–2029 are confirmed, Microsoft may be the first to open a new chapter in the console war. The information comes from journalist Jez Corden of Windows Central, who revealed what the current direction of Xbox hardware and services will be.
Classic console, but with full Windows
The new Xbox is to remain a traditional console for the television, rather than a handheld. At the same time, the company is not abandoning plans to create its own portable device in the future. The biggest change is meant to be the operating system. The hardware is set to run on full version of Windows, which would mean access not only to games from the Xbox ecosystem but also to platforms such as Steam. This also opens the door to games published on PC by Sony Interactive Entertainment. In practice, the console would be close to a PC enclosed in an Xbox casing.
Advantage over PS6?
If Sony indeed moves the PS6 release to 2028 or 2029, Microsoft could have exclusivity on the new generation for up to two years. In the console industry, the first months of sales often determine market advantage, so an earlier debut could be immensely significant. Microsoft is reportedly looking to promote the new hardware aggressively, although it is expected that the device will still be expensive.
Changes may also affect Xbox Game Pass. Internal analyses are said to involve expanding the Ultimate package with additional subscriptions related to brands like World of Warcraft or Fallout. The aim would be to increase the value of the service, the highest price point of which raises doubts among some gamers today.
If the plans are confirmed, Xbox 2027 may outpace PS6 and at the same time become the most PC-like console in the brand's history. Full Windows, access to external platforms, and a possible time advantage over Sony could completely change the balance of power in the next generation.
Source: TwistedVoxel
