Xbox Scarlett SHOCK release date news: Microsoft just made fans extremely happy

Microsoft has dropped a huge Xbox Scarlett hint ahead of next year’s release date.

The common belief has always been that Microsoft was planning to release two new consoles under the Project Scarlett umbrella.

This would include a powerful premium model, as well as a budget equivalent known as Lockhart.

However, in a move that is likely to please fans, it looks like Microsoft is ditching the budget model altogether.

Microsoft boss Phil Spencer suggested as much in an interview with Business Insider.

Asked is Microsoft was planning to release multiple consoles, Spencer said: “Last year we said consoles, and we’ve shipped a console and we’ve now detailed another console. I think that’s plural.

“Right now we’re focused on Project Scarlett and what we put on stage.”

Claims that Microsoft has ditched the budget console in an attempt not to divide the install base have since been backed up by Digital Foundry and The Verge.

Elsewhere, Microsoft said that the console will “set a new bar for console power, speed and performance”.

Launching alongside Halo Infinite, it will be powered by a custom-designed processor, which is said to leverage the latest Zen 2 and Radeon RDNA architecture.

“Paired with high bandwidth GDDR6 memory, and a next generation solid state drive (SSD), Project Scarlett will provide developers the power they require to bring their creative visions to life,” the post continues.

“Featuring hardware accelerated raytracing, variable refresh rate, 8K capability and ultra-low latency input, Project Scarlett will deliver a new level of fidelity, precision and accuracy never before seen in console gaming.”

The next-gen console will also play games from every generation of Xbox.

Microsoft explains more: “With Project Scarlett, we continue our commitment to compatibility by ensuring your gaming accessories and Xbox career will also move forward with you, along with thousands of games across four console generations which will look and play best on Project Scarlett.”

In a move that could save gamers a fortune, backwards compatibility will extend to accessories as well as games.

This means that the expensive Elite Controller will work on Scarlett, not to mention any of your old headphones.

source: express.co.uk