Next-generation gaming consoles have become a major topic recently, as Sony and Microsoft begin to reveal their upcoming plans for the future of gaming. Sony appears to be committed to a hardware-centric strategy, while Microsoft is focusing on expanding its Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, transforming the Xbox into a versatile platform for gaming as a whole. Recent comments from Xbox President Sarah Bond during an interview have shed more light on this evolving narrative.
In her conversation with Mashable, Bond discussed the future of Xbox, touching on the next-gen console and the newly launched Rog Xbox Ally, which she described as Xbox’s first handheld device. Bond emphasized that the development of the Ally was a collaborative effort—not merely a brand extension from Asus, but a true Microsoft initiative. The Rog Xbox Ally is seen as a glimpse into the future, continuing Bond’s earlier remarks about the direction of Xbox.
One striking point from the interview was Bond’s statement that “Windows is the number one platform for gaming,” reinforcing the idea that the next-gen Xbox may operate on a Windows framework. This shift suggests that the console could provide access to multiple gaming stores, enhancing the overall experience for users. Bond indicated that the upcoming Xbox will deliver a “very premium, very high-end curated experience,” signaling a potential pivot towards a more PC-like console.
This approach aligns with recent remarks about how consoles provide a highly integrated and curated experience compared to PCs. However, the characterization of the next-gen Xbox as “high-end” raises concerns about its affordability, especially for budget-conscious gamers. While the Xbox Series S has been hailed for its value, Bond’s comments hint at a move towards a more hybrid device that may carry a price tag closer to that of mid-range PCs, which typically hover around $1,000.
This change could open the Xbox ecosystem to new users while alienating some long-time fans who may feel neglected if the new console lacks a budget-friendly option. The anticipated new operating system may attract PC players seeking a more refined gaming experience, yet the shift could also leave core Xbox fans feeling abandoned if a cost-effective model is not introduced.
Furthermore, Xbox has faced criticism lately, particularly regarding price increases for services like Game Pass and development kits. The Rog Ally’s premium pricing has also raised eyebrows, signaling a troubling trend for future Xbox offerings. There is hope that Sarah Bond’s vision of a “curated” experience will lead to enhancements that refine the current Xbox interface on new devices.
As the gaming community awaits further developments, there remains a sense of anticipation for how these changes will ultimately shape the gaming landscape in the years to come.