The biggest unanswered questions about Xbox’s next-gen consoles

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The 9th generation consoles from Microsoft, specifically the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, have experienced an unusual phase in their lifespan.

Initially, the consoles were selling exceptionally well, surpassing the PS5 in certain periods due to stock shortages. However, since then, there appears to be a significant drop in demand for Xbox hardware. Over the past year, the trend has been downward for Xbox’s hardware sales, despite Microsoft’s gaming presence growing rapidly on Windows, mobile platforms, and even on PlayStation.

It appears that Microsoft is shifting its focus away from mass production of Xbox consoles, positioning them as more budget-friendly options in their broader plan. From now on, Xbox consoles won’t feature exclusive games; instead, they’ll lean heavily on Xbox Game Pass and other services to attract customers. However, so far, this approach doesn’t seem to be yielding the desired results.

Microsoft is making significant progress, as the 10th generation consoles are currently priced and being worked on at this moment. From my past coverage, I anticipate the release of an advanced successor for the Xbox Series X, as well as a device resembling the Nintendo Switch, with a portable design that allows you to play some of your Xbox games off-site.

As we move towards the projected launch period of 2027, there remain numerous other speculations and unresolved queries.

As we approach our anticipated launch timeframe in 2027, a plethora of rumors and unanswered questions still exist.

Steam and Epic Games store on Xbox? How will that work?

In the past, Xbox head Phil Spencer hinted at a desire for platforms such as the Epic Games Store and other PC marketplaces to be accessible on Xbox gaming consoles. Over time, various theories have emerged regarding the potential ways this could be implemented.

As an avid gamer, I can share some intriguing insights. It seems Xbox has been engaging in discussions with PC storefront owners, such as Valve from Steam, about potential collaborations. There have been whispers that they might be testing full integration, but for the moment, I’d advise taking this news with a grain of salt.

Recently, Microsoft accidentally shared a sneak peek of a potential Steam-like filter within the Xbox app for PC. This artwork was later removed, but not before many people got a glimpse of it. Since then, there has been much buzz and speculation among the community regarding the possible implications of this revelation.

To put it simply, there are numerous questions surrounding the details of the upcoming Xbox. It appears that it will offer a smoother experience when playing games that have PC versions, potentially through emulation or native compatibility. However, one might wonder about the benefits for Microsoft in this decision.

If more individuals choose to purchase games on Steam rather than the Xbox Store, Microsoft might find itself relinquishing the 30% fee it currently charges developers within its Xbox console environment. Given this scenario, if I’m a developer and can target Xbox through Steam without dealing with Microsoft’s stringent authentication procedures, what incentive would there be for me to create an Xbox Store listing? How could Microsoft keep developers committed to supporting Xbox in such a situation?

If people prefer buying games on Steam over the Xbox Store, Microsoft may lose the 30% fee it takes from developers in its Xbox ecosystem. If I’m a developer and can reach Xbox via Steam without dealing with Microsoft’s tough authentication, why would I create an Xbox Store listing? How can Microsoft keep developers making games for Xbox under these circumstances?

If you’re an Xbox user with numerous digital games tied to Microsoft’s console environment and prefer not to diversify your game acquisitions among various online platforms, what are your concerns if Microsoft starts offering more compatibility with Steam? Additionally, some might question whether Microsoft’s decision to support Steam indicates a slow withdrawal from the console market.

Switching Steam to Xbox might yield numerous unexpected advantages. For instance, it could make PlayStation games accessible on Xbox by playing the Steam variants of those games. Additionally, gaining entry to the Steamworks modding platform would be a significant bonus, assuming there are no technical hurdles in the way.

Will the next Xbox have true full backward compatibility?

As a researcher delving into the realm of gaming, I find myself pondering about Steam games on the upcoming Xbox. The prospect of these games bypassing Microsoft’s certification processes, with access to mods and similar features, raises an intriguing question: How structurally akin might the next Xbox be to a PC?

Microsoft is collaborating with ASUS on a joint project named “Project Kennan,” which will eventually transform into a fully-fledged Windows 11 device. It shares the same advantages and disadvantages as the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, such as compatibility issues that come with running a full Windows OS on a handheld device.

In simpler terms, using a console instead of a PC offers a distinctly unique gaming experience. Console users typically prefer an uncomplicated interface, free from navigating through Windows menus, managing drivers, or tweaking config files – aspects often associated with PC gaming. For instance, in World of Warcraft, I use CurseForge and WeakAuras for addon updates, as well as Raidbots sims to help decide on the best gear. Console games usually don’t require a mouse and keyboard or advanced Windows functionality to offer their features.

If the next Xbox adopts full-fledged Windows, could this prioritize Steam game compatibility over Xbox games compatibility? Previously, a document hinted at Microsoft considering compromising Xbox backward compatibility to focus more on Windows 11 compatibility; however, it’s important to note that this information might be outdated or no longer applicable.

Example: Microsoft has been recruiting to strengthen its forward-compatibility technology for Xbox consoles more recently. At first glance, this might seem beneficial, but upon closer examination, it may indicate that they have not yet fully addressed the compatibility issue with older Xbox games on the newer systems initially.

Considering Microsoft’s leadership in cross-generational compatibility, it’s not enjoyable to ponder the possibility that they might forgo complete compatibility with libraries used by millions of current Xbox users, all for the sake of a hypothetical, casual PC audience who might reside in living rooms.

Will anyone even want a console with no guaranteed exclusive content?

Despite the Xbox Series X|S boasting superior hardware, extensive Xbox Game Pass benefits, and the convenience of Xbox Play Anywhere, it seems to have been met with indifference by the general public.

In simpler terms, Microsoft appears to be giving PlayStation the upper hand and simultaneously promoting that an Xbox isn’t necessary or beneficial. This marketing strategy has caused many people to question Microsoft’s commitment to its own console users, as they perceive Microsoft as abandoning its Xbox platform in favor of expanding on other platforms. As a result, potential new customers might hesitate to invest their money in a company that seems to have a history of backing down when faced with competition.

Currently, I’m focusing on the mindset of the dedicated, enthusiastic audience who are deeply invested. Meanwhile, it seems that Microsoft is constructing a platform with an aim to attract a broader demographic. Microsoft expressed its desire for their Xbox hardware to stand out, voicing concerns about the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S being architecturally similar. It’s unclear if Microsoft is satisfied with the niche nature of Xbox hardware, but what developers will think about this remains uncertain. Time will tell how much innovation Microsoft can achieve without compromising its existing strengths.

Would making a PC setup more conducive for a living room environment, with potential cost advantages over the PS6, an impressive new feature, or advanced AI capabilities, appeal broadly to consumers? Could there be an unexpected twist like the return of Scalebound as an exclusive Xbox game?

What burning questions do you still have about Xbox’s next gen? Hit the comments.

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2025-05-20 19:09