The Future of Gaming: Microsoft's Bold Prediction for PlayStation 6 and Next Xbox Release Dates

Recently disclosed documents from the ongoing Microsoft-FTC trial regarding the Activision Blizzard acquisition have shed light on the anticipated release timeframe for next-generation consoles. Microsoft's high-profile acquisition of the renowned Call of Duty developer, for a reported sum of nearly $70 billion, has been a major topic of discussion within the gaming industry in recent years. Despite its initial impact, the deal has faced various obstacles, including opposition from several governments worldwide. Now, an unexpected revelation has emerged from the Microsoft vs. FTC trial.

Although there has been no official confirmation about a potential PlayStation 6 or a new Xbox console, rumors have already begun circulating about these upcoming devices. Earlier leaks from this year have hinted at Sony potentially working on a successor to the immensely popular PlayStation 5. Additionally, both fans and industry insiders have speculated that Nintendo might be developing a sequel to the Switch, considering it is currently the oldest console among its contemporaries. Recent statements from Microsoft further indicate that the company is actively considering its future in the gaming industry.

Microsoft's legal team, during the early stages of the Microsoft-FTC proceedings, has disclosed a significant revelation regarding the commencement of the next generation of consoles. According to their announcement, Microsoft anticipates that the next console generation will commence within the "2028" timeframe. This projection indicates that the current generation of consoles will continue to dominate the gaming industry for another five years. If the speculated launch window holds true, it means that the PS6 and the next Xbox console will be introduced approximately eight years after the release of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, which made their debuts in late 2020. This revelation comes amidst a series of legal conflicts related to the Activision Blizzard deal, adding another chapter to the ongoing saga.

Sony, Microsoft's main competitor, has expressed significant concerns about the impending deal as court proceedings begin. Currently, Sony's agreement to bring the highly popular Call of Duty franchise to PlayStation consoles is scheduled to end in 2024, as confirmed by Microsoft president Brad Smith. While Microsoft has made a new offer to Sony to continue having Call of Duty games on the PS5, Sony has strongly criticized the offer, expressing the belief that it will negatively impact competition between the two consoles.

While Microsoft and Sony anticipate launching new consoles by 2028, the third major hardware developer in the gaming industry may have more ambitious plans for its next console release. The Nintendo Switch, which debuted in 2017, was the earliest console of its generation, preceding the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S by three years. With Nintendo already introducing a hardware revision in the form of the OLED Switch, other developers like Ubisoft have also revealed their plans for the successor to the Switch. Although the next generation of consoles is still a few years away, Microsoft and Sony are undoubtedly already strategizing and preparing for these future launches.

Source: IGN