Rumors about Microsoft's upcoming next-gen console could mark the end of the console wars as we know them. The next Xbox flagship won’t just be a powerhouse gaming device—it’s set to become a PC/console hybrid, letting gamers play PlayStation PC titles purchased via Steam directly on their Xbox.

This could be the biggest hint yet about the future of gaming: it’s no longer about the device—it's all about content and access!

PC Power in Your Living Room: The Hybrid Concept Explained

According to leaks, Microsoft’s new Xbox—described as “ultra-premium and high-end”—is breaking free from the classic closed-box model and merging a full Windows experience with the console interface:

• Core System: Full Windows: The console will run a complete Windows operating system, just like a traditional PC.

• TV-Optimized Interface: When you power it on, you’re greeted with a special “Xbox Fullscreen Experience” that feels like a console and is easy to navigate with a controller.

• Two Worlds, One Device: At any time, users can exit the Xbox interface and switch to the underlying Windows environment.

How Will PlayStation Games Arrive?

This PC-based approach opens the door to PlayStation games without Sony’s direct approval. Here’s how it works:

1. Steam and Other Stores: With Windows access, users can install and use all major PC game stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, and Battle.net.

2. Sony's PC Ports: Sony has brought major exclusives like God of War, Spider-Man, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Ghost of Tsushima to PC, selling them via Steam.

3. Playing PS Games on Xbox: With the new Xbox’s powerful hardware, users can launch Steam within Windows and purchase and play PlayStation PC ports directly on their Xbox console hardware.

This means incredible convenience for gamers: Your entire library (Xbox, Steam, Epic) on a single device, all from the comfort of your couch!

The Price Tag: What Does Freedom Cost?

This revolutionary feature set comes at a price. Given the console’s high-end hardware—designed to compete with PCs—expectations are set for a premium cost:

• Estimated Price Range: Industry sources predict the next-gen Xbox could launch at a price point between $800 and $1200.

   

• Hardware Power: Leaks suggest the console will feature a high-performance APU based on AMD’s next-gen Zen 5 and RDNA 4/5 architecture, targeting 4K/120 FPS and even 8K. This aims to justify the high price with “PC-level performance.”

A Vision for the Future

Microsoft’s move isn’t just about selling a console—it’s about shifting the industry paradigm. The focus is moving from “Which console is better?” to “Which platform gives you the best and broadest access to games?”

If these rumors are true, the next-gen Xbox will position itself above the traditional console market, redefining itself as the “Universal Gaming Hub” and offering gamers an almost unlimited library.

Are you excited about this hybrid console concept? What technical features do you think are essential for seamless Steam and PlayStation gaming on this device?