Analysts Predict Next-Gen Xbox Will Launch in 2013 With Physical Media

Via a research note, Cowan & Company analyst Doug Creutz addressed reports that Microsoft's upcoming Xbox 360 successor would forego a disc-drive in favor of an all-digital distribution platform, stating the move would be too risky. "We believe a digital-only next-gen Xbox is unlikely given risks to both Microsoft's market share and the gaming ecosystem as a whole from any attempt to kill used games," Creutz said.

There have been a lot of rumors swirling around the internet regarding the next Xbox console – including speculation that it would not allow users to play used games and might feature a controller similar to the Wii U. Today one analyst is weighing in on when he thinks the next Xbox will launch and if it will only allow for digital distribution.

One of the more consistent rumors about the next iteration of the Xbox is when it will launch – with many people believing that it will hit stores in 2013. Microsoft has already confirmed that their new console will not make an appearance at E3 2012; however, this doesn’t mean it won’t be unveiled this year – even if the console will most likely launch sometime in 2013.

When speaking with CVG, analyst Doug Creutz from Cowan & Company stated that he also thinks that the next Xbox will hit stores in the fall of 2013. Furthermore, he believes that the next-gen Xbox will have some form of physical media, contrary to earlier rumors that it would be digital only. That said, the storage media will be designed in a way to reduce the cost of the new Xbox. Creutz states:

“We believe a digital-only next-gen Xbox is unlikely given risks to both Microsoft’s market share and the gaming ecosystem as a whole from any attempt to kill used games.”

When rumors hit the internet that the new Xbox wouldn’t support used games, people believed that GameStop would take a serious hit – given that used games represent a large chunk of their business. However, Microsoft would also take a serious hit and backlash from the gaming public. Imagine not being able to borrow, or let a friend borrow, a game – or rent a new title just to try it out. Microsoft would be shooting itself — and perhaps the rest of the industry — in the foot if they made such a move as to eliminate used games.

Paul Raines, CEO of GameStop, also believes that digital-only game consoles won’t make their debut in the next generation. During an earnings call with investors he stated:

“We think it’s unlikely that there would be that next-gen console [that blocks used games] because the model simply hasn’t been proven that works.”

It seems that GameStop isn’t worried about losing money in the next generation. Gamers should also rest easy as they will be able to trade and play games with their friends.

SOURCE: IGN, Game Rant

Please donate to keep the site going. The domain will expire soon, any amount are gladly accepted. To donate, just click the donate button on the right panel. Thanks