Xbox Project Helix Plays PC Games
Microsoft's next-gen console Project Helix will play both Xbox and PC games, CEO Asha Sharma confirmed. This represents a major shift toward a hybrid platform for core and PC gamers alike. The announcement reaffirms Microsoft's commitment to console hardware despite rumors of going all-digital.
The move to a hybrid console capable of playing PC games is a significant step in Microsoft's long-term strategy of breaking down the barriers between console and PC gaming. This approach has been building for years through initiatives like Xbox Play Anywhere, which allows users to buy a game once and play it on both Xbox and Windows devices. The success of PC Game Pass, which has seen significant revenue growth, further underscores the company's commitment to the PC gaming space. Leading this new chapter is the recently appointed CEO of Microsoft Gaming, Asha Sharma, who took over after the departure of long-time Xbox head Phil Spencer. Sharma, who previously served as President of Microsoft's CoreAI product, has emphasized her commitment to Xbox hardware and a "return to Xbox," even as the company broadens its platform strategy. Her background in scaling services that reach billions of users is seen as critical for the future growth of Microsoft's gaming division. The "Project Helix" name was officially confirmed by Sharma, who stated the new console "will lead in performance and play your Xbox and PC games." This confirmation follows earlier hints from former Xbox President Sarah Bond about a future console that would be more akin to a high-end gaming PC. More details about the project are expected to be shared with partners and studios at the upcoming Game Developers Conference (GDC). Rumors suggest that Project Helix will be a premium device, with some analysts predicting a price point that rivals high-end gaming PCs. Leaked specifications point towards a powerful system targeting native 4K resolution and 120 frames per second, and it is expected to ship with storefronts like Steam and the Epic Games Store pre-installed. The console is reportedly targeting a 2027 release date.
