Xbox confirms its Project Helix console will be released in 2027 – but there’s a Godzilla-like catch
Quick Summary
Xbox has revealed more details on Project Helix, its next-generation console.
Sadly, that includes release information – which doesn’t look good if you’ve been holding your breath for a release this year or next.
After the codename revelation last week, Xbox has revealed more details about Project Helix – its next-generation console – including release details.
That puts the cat among the pigeons when it comes to a full consumer release, as some expected the final console to hit the market late next year. Indeed, it looks like we’ll be waiting at least two years for the new Xbox console to hit stores.
The article continues below
However, there is a sweetener for now – Ronald also revealed during the presentation that, technically, Windows 11 PCs will be Xbox consoles as well. Or at least, they will be getting the Xbox mode UI that is currently available on handhelds, such as Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X.
That means you’ll be able to turn your gaming rig or small PC into a Project helix, of sorts.
This may be further improved due to an additional announcement – Xbox is renewing its backwards compatibility system, and some believe that this may extend to Xbox games running on Windows.
Old Xbox titles will be re-released as part of the brand’s Game Preservation program and to celebrate Xbox’s 25th anniversary: ”As the biggest publishers in the industry, we feel a deep responsibility to preserve the games of the past,” said Donald (via The Verge).
“Some of our most prominent first-team franchises are returning this year.”
He also went on to say that Xbox will “release new ways to play some of the most iconic games of the past”. Would that include a PC? We’ll have to wait to find out, but it could be a great way to prepare gamers for the concept of a PC-led gaming console era.
Of course, Project Helix will be the first PC machine. During his GDC speech, Donald also asked developers to start making the next Xbox games on their PCs. And the painted hardware image feels more PC than console.
“Project Helix is powered by a custom AMD SoC and designed for the next generation of DirectX and FSR to unlock the future,” he wrote in the official blog post.
“It delivers an order of magnitude leap in performance and ray tracing capability, integrates intelligence directly into the imaging and computing pipeline, and delivers tangible gains in efficiency, scale, and ambition.
“The result is a world that is realistic, immersive, and powerful for players.”
It could also result in gamers getting a second loan to pay off one, but that’s something we’ll get to later.
Personally, I’m looking forward to installing Xbox mode against Bazzite (SteamOS) on one of my smaller PCs to see what can happen in the meantime. And finding out if the extended wait for Project Helix will be worth it.
