The next generation Xbox is releasing in two different SKUs, and the cheaper one will be a Nintendo Switch-like handheld that will be able to play Xbox games natively while also supporting cloud gaming.
Speaking during the latest episode of the XNC - Xbox News Cast Podcast, Middleagegameguy commented on the next Microsoft console, saying that it is still on track for a 2026 release and that it will launch in two different SKUs. The most expensive SKU will be a traditional game console like the Xbox One and the Xbox Series X, while the cheapest SKU will be a dockable handheld in the vein of the Nintendo Switch created by the Surface team with built-in controls and a touch screen supporting cloud gaming that is capable of running Xbox games natively.
As Microsoft's strategy seems to be changing drastically over the past few console generations, it wouldn't be exactly surprising to see the company attempt to expand into the handheld market. Despite this, we must take everything with a grain of salt until the next generation Xbox console is officially revealed.
If Microsoft is indeed going third party, releasing some of its best exclusives like Starfield, the Gears of War series, Hi-Fi Rush, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and others on Sony's consoles, one really has to wonder about what sort of appeal another console by Microsoft could have. With other rumors saying that Microsoft could be lagging behind Sony in the next console generation, there's a lot of uncertainty around that is unlikely to be completely addressed next week when the company provides an update on its future strategy.
About the author: Francesco De Meo has been covering video games and technology since 2012, starting his career at small outlets like Gamersyndrome and GeekSnack. After joining Wccftech gaming section in 2015, he quickly expanded his video gaming coverage with in-depth reporting, interviews with iconic industry figures such as Grasshopper Manufacture founder and No More Heroes creator Goichi "Suda51" Suda, Resident Evil series creator Shinji Mikami, Team NINJA's president and Nioh series director Fumihiko Yasuda, and Silent Hill creator Keiichiro Toyama, reviews and on-the-ground coverage of major industry events such as Gamescom and E3. When he's not reporting or reviewing, Francesco can be found playing the genres he loves most, spending time with his six cats, reading, writing music, playing guitar and drumming for his progressive rock band.
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