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Xbox is dropping hints for their next generation of console and it’s leaving gamers asking for more.
It looks like Xbox is starting the rumor mill this early as they’ve just announced Project Helix, the code name for their next generation console. Newly appointed Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma dropped the news on X while also confirming it’ll play PC games.
Microsoft has been hinting for a while about turning their console to something more akin to a pre-built PC. This announcement somewhat confirms that and with it being able to play both Xbox and PC games, it means that the Xbox Game Pass will likely be a highlight of the console.
Xbox really needs a home run here, considering all the bad news they’ve been putting out recently. But there’s two burning questions that need to be answered before we can make that judgment and they’re likely going to make or break their new console in the eyes of gamers everywhere.
Price
This question is more important than ever given recent global events. Every aspect of consumer electronics is being hit hard with parts shortages and Xbox will not be an exception.
There are avenues for them to sidestep this problem, such as using cloud streaming in conjunction with Xbox Game Pass. With the actual running of the game not being done by their new console, that could allow them to get away with some lower and cheaper specs. But not everyone can avail of cloud streaming, and having a ‘cheap’ console isn’t exactly on brand for Microsoft.
It’s a tough question, and the most critical one to answer if Project Helix wants to succeed.
Exclusives
This has been the biggest hole in Xbox’s portfolio ever since they went hard into their Game Pass service. While ideally it’s very nice to be able to play any game on the machine of your choice, that makes it very difficult to justify buying your console. I mean, if I can play the same games on a PC and Xbox, why would I ever bother getting an Xbox if I already have a good PC?
The fact of the matter is that exclusives sell consoles, and Xbox has fallen behind in that department. It’ll be interesting to see how Microsoft answers this question given the current thrust of Project Helix.
Banner images from Xbox.com and Asha Sharma via X.