The winds of change are blowing in the gaming world, and Microsoft seems to be right in the thick of it. Rumors are swirling about a potential next-gen Xbox console *and* a dedicated handheld device. Are these just whispers in the digital void, or is there some serious fire behind all this smoke? Let’s dive in and break down what’s being said, what it could mean for gamers, and why this is all so exciting.
The Buzz Around Project Kennan: An Xbox Handheld?
First up, let’s talk about “Project Kennan.” According to reports, this isn’t a figment of our imaginations – it’s supposedly a handheld device being manufactured by Asus, aiming to bridge the gap between Windows and Xbox. Think of it as an Xbox-branded ROG Ally, and suddenly things get a whole lot more interesting.
But hold on, what exactly does “bridge the gap” mean? The idea is that Kennan will run Windows under the hood but sport an interface that’s undeniably Xbox. Could this be the Steam Deck competitor Microsoft’s been needing? Potentially. This could also mean a single store of games and an easier path for developers to build titles that work seamlessly across handhelds, consoles, and PCs.
Asus: Leading the Handheld Charge?
Speaking of Asus, they’re reportedly one of the launch partners for this effort. This isn’t entirely surprising. Phil Spencer himself has praised the ROG Ally. “It only makes sense for the two companies to partner up,” – Artem Golub ,Gizmodo, which aligns with Microsoft’s vision of integrating Windows and Xbox more closely, perhaps we will see a handheld launch this year.
Rumor has it that Project Kennan will blend ASUS styling with updated design conventions more typical of an Xbox style device, with more prominent grips and a dedicated Xbox guidestyle button.
The ASUS ROG Ally X is arguably the best PC gaming handheld on the market as of writing, with the best balance of specs, design, weight, and price. It sounds pretty promising, doesn’t it?
What About the Games? Will My Xbox Library Come With Me?
Ah, the million-dollar question. While Kennan will essentially be a Windows PC, don’t expect your entire Xbox library to magically appear. Games that fall under Xbox Play Anywhere will work across Xbox One, Series X/S, and Kennan. What does it mean? A broader availability of games on the handheld ecosystem?
But here’s where things get interesting. Microsoft has a history of running emulators to get older Xbox games working on newer consoles. Could they bring that expertise to the PC world? It’s a tantalizing possibility, especially with Sarah Bond creating a team focused on game preservation and forward compatibility. Imagine playing Geometry Wars 2 on the go – the dream!
The Next-Gen Xbox Console: A TV-Friendly PC?
Now, let’s shift gears to the next-gen Xbox console. Windows Central reports that Microsoft is working on a premium successor to the Series X, tentatively slated for 2027. And here’s the kicker: it might be more like a PC than ever before.
What does that mean? Well, think about it: easier game development, support for third-party storefronts like Steam and GOG, and continued backwards compatibility. It’s a bold vision, and it could shake up the console landscape in a big way.
Key Takeaways: What to Expect
- Xbox Handheld (Project Kennan): Possibly launching later this year.
- Manufacturer: Likely Asus.
- Operating System: Windows-based with an Xbox UI overlay (Project Bayside).
- Game Compatibility: Xbox Play Anywhere titles plus potential for emulation of older games.
- Next-Gen Xbox Console: Tentatively slated for 2027.
- Design Philosophy: More like a PC with a TV-friendly shell.
- Storefronts: Support for third-party storefronts like Steam and GOG.
The Spectre of SteamOS: Competition Heats Up
Valve’s Steam Deck has proven that there’s a massive market for handheld gaming PCs. Furthermore, Valve opening up SteamOS is tempting Windows OEMs to make the switch. Suddenly, Microsoft seems to be on a mission to fortify its position by merging Windows and Xbox.
This convergence would enable Microsoft to effectively contest the SteamOS threat. How? By providing a smooth, unified experience across gaming PCs and handhelds, and by creating an ecosystem where games are available anywhere and everywhere.
Pricing and Specs: What’s Under the Hood?
While exact specs and pricing are still under wraps, reports suggest that the base model could land somewhere between $499 and $599. Expect different SKUs with varying chips or SSD sizes, too. As for what’s inside, it’s speculated that it might run a Z2 Go chipset.
The good news is that Microsoft is hard at work on optimizing Windows for handhelds, refining the Xbox app, and making the entire experience as smooth as possible. As the Executive Editor at Windows Central, Jez Corden, argues, Microsoft is working on bringing more of Xbox to Windows. The goal? To make Kennan feel as close to an Xbox as possible.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Xbox is Looking Interesting
There are a lot of “ifs” and “maybes” here. But one thing’s for sure: Microsoft is making some bold moves, potentially transforming the Xbox ecosystem as we know it. Whether it’s a handheld device, a PC-like console, or a combination of both, the future is looking very interesting.
The question is, will Microsoft succeed in merging the best bits of Windows and Xbox? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain, gamers have many things to look forward to. Let’s wait and see what Microsoft has under the hood!
Top 5 Must-Play Games on Xbox Game Pass Right Now
Xbox Game Pass is a treasure trove of gaming goodness, offering a wide variety of titles for a low monthly subscription. With so many games to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Fear not, fellow gamers! We’ve compiled a list of five must-play games currently available on Xbox Game Pass that you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
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Starfield
Bethesda’s epic space RPG lets you explore a vast galaxy, customize your ship, and embark on countless adventures. With a compelling story and nearly limitless possibilities, Starfield is a must-play for any RPG fan. Explore distant worlds, engage in thrilling space battles, and forge your own destiny among the stars.
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Forza Motorsport
Experience the thrill of high-speed racing with stunning visuals and realistic physics. Forza Motorsport pushes the boundaries of racing simulation, delivering an immersive experience for both casual and hardcore racing fans. Fine-tune your car, compete in challenging races, and climb the ranks to become a racing legend.
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Sea of Thieves
Embark on swashbuckling adventures with your friends in this shared-world pirate game. Sail the open seas, plunder treasure, and battle fearsome creatures in this unique and unforgettable experience. Grab your crew, raise the Jolly Roger, and set sail for adventure in Sea of Thieves!
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Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Dive into a dark and psychological action-adventure game that explores mental illness in a truly unique and powerful way. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing.
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Gears 5
Experience the latest installment in the iconic Gears of War franchise, featuring intense third-person shooter action and a gripping story. Gears 5 delivers everything you love about the series and more, with stunning graphics and a compelling narrative. Team up with your friends, grab your Lancer, and prepare for an epic battle against the Swarm.
Xbox Handheld vs. Steam Deck: Which is Right for You?
With the potential release of an Xbox handheld device looming, the inevitable comparison with the Steam Deck is on everyone’s minds. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences and which device might be a better fit based on your gaming preferences:
| Feature | Xbox Handheld (Rumored) | Steam Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows-based with Xbox UI | SteamOS (Linux-based) |
| Game Library | Xbox Play Anywhere titles, potential for emulation, PC Game Pass | Steam Library, compatibility with other PC game stores |
| Hardware | Potentially ASUS-made, Z2 Go chipset speculated | Custom AMD APU |
| Price | Rumored $499 – $599 (base model) | Starting at $399 (LCD model), $549 (OLED 256GB), $649 (OLED 512GB), $679 (OLED 1TB Limited Edition) |
| Ecosystem | Xbox ecosystem integration, potential for cross-platform play | Steam ecosystem, community-driven support |
Verdict: If you’re deeply invested in the Xbox ecosystem, enjoy Xbox Game Pass, and want seamless integration with your console and PC games, the Xbox handheld is likely the better choice. If you have a large Steam library, appreciate open-source software, and want a more versatile handheld PC gaming experience, the Steam Deck remains a formidable option. The choice ultimately depends on your individual gaming needs and preferences.
Xbox Handheld and Next-Gen Console FAQs
What is Project Kennan?
Project Kennan is rumored to be a handheld device being developed by Asus, designed to bridge the gap between Windows and Xbox by running Windows with an Xbox-style interface.
When can we expect the next-gen Xbox console?
The next-gen Xbox console is tentatively slated for 2027.
Will my existing Xbox games work on the handheld?
Games that fall under Xbox Play Anywhere will work. There’s also potential for Microsoft to use emulation to allow older Xbox games to be played.
The Future of Xbox Gaming: A Glimpse
Microsoft’s exploration of a dedicated handheld and a PC-like next-gen console signal a significant shift in their gaming strategy. The convergence of Windows and Xbox could revolutionize how gamers access and experience their favorite titles, blurring the lines between console, PC, and mobile gaming. This bold vision promises exciting possibilities, but only time will tell if Microsoft can successfully execute it and reshape the gaming landscape.
