According to leaked documents from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) v. Microsoft case, the tech giant is planning to release a new Xbox console in 2028 that will rely heavily on cloud gaming. This console will require an internet connection to play games, marking a significant shift in Microsoft’s gaming strategy.
The leaked documents reveal Microsoft’s vision for the next generation of console hardware, describing a hybrid game platform that combines the power of the client hardware with the capabilities of the cloud to deliver immersive gaming experiences. This approach builds on existing services like GeForce Now, which streams games to lower performance hardware using high-end GPUs. Microsoft aims to take this concept further by leveraging high-performance hardware with additional performance from the cloud.
The leaked slides reference “Cloud Hybrid Games,” which suggests that Microsoft will market the need for an always-connected console as essential for accessing these new gaming experiences. The documents also provide hints about the hardware specifications of the new console, including an ARM64 CPU and GPU, next-gen DirectX ray tracing, dynamic global illumination, micropolygon rendering optimizations, and machine learning-based super-resolution.
Additionally, the documents mention the development of sub $99 handheld devices running a “Thin OS” for gaming. This move aligns with Sony’s PlayStation Portal, an 8-inch handheld capable of streaming games from the PS5. Microsoft aims to offer a similar handheld device at a lower price point, hoping to appeal to gamers who prioritize portability and affordability.
It’s worth noting that the leaked documents did not mention the Xbox streaming stick that has been the subject of speculation in the gaming community.
Overall, Microsoft’s plans for a cloud-dependent Xbox console in 2028 represent a significant shift in the company’s gaming strategy. By leveraging the power of the cloud, Microsoft aims to deliver more immersive gaming experiences and expand its presence in the gaming industry.
Sources:
– IGN: “Leaked Documents Reveal Microsoft’s Cloud-Dependent Xbox Console Coming in 2028”
