The gaming world never stands still, and Microsoft doesn't seem to be letting current challenges slow it down. Despite declining hardware sales and an increased focus on multiplatform releases, the company continues to work on a next-gen Xbox. This has apparently passed an important milestone and brings the launch of the next Xbox a lot closer.
Microsoft remains true to the future of consoles
The past few months have shown that Microsoft's strategy has changed. Exclusive first-party games such as Forza Horizon 5, Age of Mythology: Retold and Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition appear cross-platform on the PlayStation 5 and the Nintendo Switch. Nevertheless, there are no signs that Microsoft will give up the console business completely.
Jez Corden from Windows Central reportedthat the next-generation Xbox hardware has successfully passed the early pitch stages and is now considered "fully approved and costed". This confirms statements from Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer, who has repeatedly emphasized that the company will continue to invest in consoles, while Xbox as a brand will be more present and appear on other platforms.
So while a classic new Xbox console is still to be expected, there are increasing indications that Microsoft will also a portable version of the Xbox could develop. According to earlier reports, the company is planning a second device that is more similar to a Steam Deck than the previous Xbox Series S.
Phil Spencer has already confirmed that prototypes of such a handheld exist. However, it is likely to be several years before a marketable product emerges - if it appears at all.
Competition with Sony and Nintendo
Looking to the future, Microsoft faces the challenge of holding its own against Sony and Nintendo. While the PlayStation 5 continues on its record-breaking course and Nintendo may soon launch a successor to the Switch, Microsoft must prove that a new Xbox still makes sense despite the current market changes. The goal is clear: they want to no longer necessarily convinced by the Xboxbut to bring them to where the players already are.
It remains to be seen whether the next-gen Xbox will be a game changer or whether the market will move in a completely different direction. Microsoft has not yet given up on the hardware battle, but is pursuing a fresh approachwhich will decide the future of the Xbox.
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