Xbox ‘Magnus’ Launches with Free Multiplayer and Epic Games Support

Key Takeaways

1. The next Xbox console will be first-party hardware, moving away from collaborations.
2. It will function like a PC with a complete Windows installation, offering a console-like experience.
3. The user experience will be simplified, allowing direct access to Xbox games without exiting the main interface.
4. It will support backward compatibility and online multiplayer without a paid subscription.
5. Users will have access to the full version of Windows, enabling third-party game launchers and applications.

Windows Central has shared fresh details about Microsoft’s Xbox division and their upcoming plans. Recently, the company confirmed that the next Xbox console will be first-party hardware. This comes despite their collaboration with Asus to produce the ROG Xbox Ally X and the more affordable ROG Xbox Ally, which is currently priced at $599 on Amazon.

Future of Xbox Consoles

These two handheld devices are not just standalone products; they provide a glimpse into what the next Xbox console will offer. According to the report, the successors to the Xbox Series S|X will function like a PC disguised as an Xbox. The new console is expected to come with a complete Windows installation, specifically tailored to deliver a console-like experience.

User Experience Changes

For comparison, users still have to go through the typical Windows setup when using the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X to access Microsoft’s new Xbox Full Screen Experience. This is different from the Steam Deck or Legion Go S, which operate on SteamOS. Microsoft aims to simplify this for the next-gen Xbox console, ensuring it starts with the familiar Xbox experience right from the first boot.

Additionally, players won’t have to exit the main console interface to enjoy Xbox games, download updates, or buy new titles. The upcoming Xbox will also support backward compatibility and will finally allow online multiplayer without requiring a paid subscription. However, Windows will still run in the background to enable the use of third-party game launchers like GOG Galaxy, Epic Games Store, or Steam.

Full Windows Accessibility

Users will also be able to access the full version of Windows whenever needed. Currently, the next Xbox console is predicted to come equipped with an AMD 3 nm chipset known by the codename ‘Magnus’. Pricing could potentially be higher than expected based on recent information leaks.

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