Overview
- New assessments from Eurogamer, Polygon and Inverse describe sagging sentiment after layoffs, project cancellations, higher hardware and Game Pass prices, and a shift to publishing on rival platforms.
- The hardware remains well regarded, with Series X judged powerful enough for most players and Series S still a strong low-cost entry point despite recent price increases.
- Early advantages like Game Pass value and Smart Delivery set Xbox apart at launch, but subscription hikes and strategy changes have narrowed that lead.
- Microsoft has reduced emphasis on console exclusivity, with reporting that more first-party titles are headed to PlayStation, including plans for Halo next year.
- Coverage notes Microsoft’s intention to release a next‑gen Xbox that could be a premium offering, with specifics such as timing and pricing yet to be announced.