A prominent insider and journalist on X has shared views about how the gaming industry could evolve with the arrival of next generation consoles. The central idea is a shift away from physical discs toward digital formats delivered through online stores and subscription services. In this scenario, the price of games could rise toward the century-mark, with $100 becoming a new standard while current AAA titles often land at seventy dollars. That price trajectory would reshape how players buy and access games, pushing more gamers toward digital libraries and on-demand access rather than physical collections.
Another trend cited is the increase in long term exclusivity arrangements for games and content on specific platforms. Publishers might lean into these exclusive deals to attract a broader audience to particular ecosystems. In tandem, costs could be cut and development may concentrate on proven, popular series. New and experimental projects could become rarer as studios bet on reliable, well-loved franchises to sustain revenue and brand loyalty.
Additionally, the forecast suggests that major console makers could roll out their own portable devices. The aim would be to claim a share of mobile gaming while competing with established portable options like Nintendo Switch and other handhelds, as well as cloud and streaming solutions. This would broaden reach beyond traditional home consoles and broaden the scope of where games can be played.
It should be noted that these are personal opinions and not confirmations from insiders. The release timeline for the next generation of consoles remains unknown, and current platforms retain strong relevance for many players.
Earlier discussions from Insider touched on questions around the price and release timelines for high end hardware such as PlayStation models. All sources cited here are part of a broader conversation about where the industry might head in the coming years.