Xbox Next-Gen Console May Cost Double the PlayStation 6 Price

Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox could carry a significantly higher price tag than its main rival. New leaks suggest the console may cost nearly twice as much as the future PlayStation 6. This potential price shock is linked to advanced hardware and a new open-store strategy.

The ambitious plan could fundamentally change the console market. It would also impact how gamers access their digital libraries.

Magnus APU and Third-Party Stores Drive Cost Up

The primary reason for the high cost is a powerful new processor. According to leaks from known AMD source Kepler L2, the console will use a cutting-edge “Magnus” APU. This chip is reportedly very large and expensive to produce.

Microsoft also plans to allow third-party storefronts on the device. This means platforms like Steam and GOG could be accessible directly on the console. However, this move would cost Microsoft its standard 30% cut from every game sale.

Backward Compatibility and a New Market Approach

The new hardware will focus heavily on backward compatibility. The console is designed to play games from previous Xbox generations. This feature will reportedly be exclusive to the console and not available on PC.

This strategy positions the next Xbox differently. It appears aimed at competing with pre-built gaming PCs. Sony’s PlayStation 6, meanwhile, is expected to follow a more traditional console path.

This approach focuses on high performance at a controlled cost. The industry is heading toward a fascinating divergence in strategy.

The next console generation is shaping up to be a battle of philosophies. Consumers will ultimately decide if a premium, open-platform Xbox is worth a potentially much higher price tag than the PlayStation 6.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Why would the next Xbox be more expensive?

Two main factors are driving the cost. The advanced “Magnus” APU is expensive to make. Also, supporting third-party stores means Microsoft loses its 30% game sales revenue.

Q2: Will the new Xbox play my old games?

Yes, reports indicate strong backward compatibility. The console should play games from earlier Xbox generations without issue.

Q3: Can I use Steam on the next Xbox?

Microsoft’s plan is to support third-party stores. This would technically allow platforms like Steam to run on the console through a virtual machine.

Q4: How is Sony’s approach different?

Sony is reportedly focusing on a traditional console model. The PlayStation 6 aims for high performance with ray tracing but will prioritize keeping costs down for consumers.

Q5: When are these consoles expected?

Neither company has announced a release date. Industry analysts predict a launch window no earlier than late 2026.

Trusted Sources: Reuters