Massive Microsoft Leak Reveals Xbox Refreshes and Cloud Gaming Focus

Politics, News Sept. 20, 2023, 6:06 a.m.

Microsofts extensive leak unveils mid-cycle console refreshes, innovative controllers, and a focus on cloud-based gaming. Phil Spencers interest in collaborating with Nintendo and Valve also surfaced. Elder Scrolls VIs release is delayed until 2026, with exclusivity to PC and Xbox platforms.

In what is being hailed as a monumental leak in Microsoft's history, the company inadvertently disclosed an extensive trove of information regarding upcoming Xbox developments, next-generation gaming systems, and more. This breach occurred when unredacted documents were inadvertently uploaded to a court website as part of the ongoing legal battle between the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Microsoft. The fallout from this leak has sent shockwaves across the internet, not only offering a comprehensive roadmap for Microsoft's future endeavors but also shedding unprecedented light on the company's inner workings.

The revelation of these confidential files took place early on a Tuesday morning when eagle-eyed users on the gaming forum ResetEra stumbled upon them. Douglass Farrar, a spokesperson for FLuzala, promptly clarified that their organization was not responsible for this inadvertent disclosure, a statement later confirmed by the court. It is worth noting that leaks are relatively common in the gaming industry, with even industry giants like Sony falling victim to leaks, as seen in the FLuzala v. Microsoft trial where poorly executed redactions revealed sensitive information. However, the scale and breadth of this particular leak set it apart, sparking a deluge of speculation about Microsoft's future plans.

Addressing the situation on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Xbox head Phil Spencer acknowledged that the leak had sparked conversations about old emails and documents. He emphasized that not all the information contained in the leak was up-to-date, and he expressed the company's discomfort at seeing their work shared in this manner. Spencer assured the gaming community that Microsoft would share their authentic plans when they were ready to do so.

Despite the outdated nature of some of the leaked information, certain key details emerged, fueling excitement and curiosity about Microsoft's future gaming endeavors. According to the internal documents, Microsoft has mid-cycle console refreshes in the pipeline. The Series X console refresh, internally referred to as Brooklin, is expected to launch in November. It features a more cylindrical design compared to its boxy predecessor, lacks a disc drive, and boasts 2 terabytes of storage along with a front-facing USB-C port. Enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities and a new controller are also promised, all priced at $499.

Details about Ellewood, the codename for the Series S refresh, are less specific. The documents suggest improved internal storage and Wi-Fi, with a planned price point of $299. Notably, Microsoft intends to stagger the release of these two refreshed consoles, with a 60-day gap between them, in a strategic move to maximize sales.

The two-toned controller, codenamed Sebile, made s for its innovative features. It includes a "direct-to-cloud" connection, a rechargeable and swappable battery, "precision haptic feedback," quiet buttons and thumbsticks, and lift-to-wake capabilities.

Perhaps the most significant revelation from the documents is Microsoft's vision of its next console as a "hybrid game platform" that will fully leverage the power of the cloud. In an internal slide, the company states, "We will enable new levels of performance beyond the capabilities of the client hardware alone."

Interestingly, an email from 2020 revealed Xbox's Phil Spencer discussing the significance of Nintendo in the gaming industry. Spencer referred to Nintendo as "THE prime asset for us in Gaming" and expressed a desire for tighter collaboration. However, he tempered expectations of a merger, deeming it unlikely, and ruled out hostile actions, stating that Microsoft was playing the long game. Spencer also mentioned Valve alongside Nintendo, expressing full support for merging with or acquiring either company "if [the] opportunity arises." This isn't the first time Microsoft has expressed interest in Nintendo and Valve, and these statements have raised eyebrows in the gaming community.

In news that might disappoint many fans, the leaked documents revealed that Elder Scrolls VI is not slated for release until at least 2026. Moreover, it appears that the game will be exclusive to PC and Xbox platforms, leaving PlayStation 5 owners without access to this highly anticipated title.

In conclusion, this massive leak has inadvertently provided gamers and industry enthusiasts with a sneak peek into Microsoft's ambitious gaming plans, offering a tantalizing glimpse of what lies ahead in the world of Xbox and beyond.