Next-Generation Xbox Potentially Priced Significantly Higher Than PlayStation 6
Microsoft’s strategy shift to embrace third-party digital storefronts on its next Xbox console could result in a substantially higher price tag for consumers, potentially doubling the cost of sony’s forthcoming PlayStation 6. This move, reported by Mezha.Media, stems from Microsoft’s commitment to allow these stores without applying its standard 30% commission on sales – a revenue stream the company will need to offset.
The decision to forgo revenue from game sales, coupled with the anticipated cost of a new AMD chip, is projected to drive up the Xbox’s price. This contrasts sharply with Sony’s approach, which focuses on hardware advancements and a potentially more affordable price point. The diverging strategies of the two console giants could reshape the next generation of gaming, impacting consumer choice and market share.
A key factor influencing the Xbox’s potential cost is Microsoft’s willingness to support third-party stores. Unlike its current model, the next Xbox will not restrict game purchases to the Microsoft Store, meaning the company will lose its typical 30% cut of revenue. To compensate for this loss, Microsoft is expected to increase the console’s price.
Further complicating matters are licensing restrictions; publishers have not agreed to automatically extend Xbox game licenses to PC versions. This limitation adds to the financial pressures influencing the console’s pricing.
Sony, meanwhile, is concentrating on enhancing hardware capabilities. The company plans a system supporting 4K resolution, 120 frames per second, and improved ray tracing technology. Additionally, Sony is developing a portable gaming device that preliminary specifications suggest will outperform both the Xbox ROG Ally X and the standard PlayStation 5 model.
