Next-Gen Xbox Dev Kits Won’t Be Released Until 2027

At GDC 2026, Microsoft’s Jason Ronald shared exciting details about the upcoming console, codenamed Project Helix. This next-gen machine will harness path tracing and machine learning to enhance frame rates through frame generation. However, don’t expect to get your hands on one just yet, as developer kits won’t be available until 2027.

Project Helix will feature a custom AMD SOC that promises a significant boost in ray tracing performance, enabling advanced path tracing in select games. Additionally, it will incorporate a next-gen version of AMD’s FSR upscaling technology, allowing for smoother and visually stunning frame generation. This console is being developed alongside the next generation of DirectX and will support Neural Texture Compression and advanced neural rendering techniques.

During the talk, Ronald also highlighted the increasing integration between Xbox and Windows. Project Helix will be compatible with both PC and Xbox games, and it seems more Xbox features are making their way to Windows. Ronald emphasized the importance of PC in the Xbox ecosystem, stating, “We’re bringing the best of Xbox to Windows itself to make Windows a great OS for games.”

In a notable update, “Xbox Mode” is set to launch on Windows 11 PCs next month, previously known as the “Xbox Full Screen Experience.” This feature, which first appeared on the Xbox ROG Ally handheld, aims to deliver a distinctly Xbox feel as users switch between various Xbox devices and the cloud.

Microsoft is encouraging developers to create a single version of their games that can run on both Xbox and PC, reducing the need for separate ports. The goal is for most games to function this way, integrating with the existing Play Anywhere program, so gamers won’t have to purchase two versions for different platforms.

In celebration of Xbox’s 25th anniversary, Ronald announced plans to re-release a selection of classic Xbox titles as part of the Game Preservation program. He expressed a commitment to preserving gaming history, stating, “Not only is this something that’s deeply personal to us, but we feel a deep responsibility to preserve games of the past.” He also hinted at the return of iconic first-party franchises this year, likely referencing the upcoming remaster of Halo, the new Forza Horizon, and a prequel to Gears of War, all set to launch in 2026.

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