Readers may have started smelling something peculiar in the air these past few months. Don’t be alarmed, that’s just the aura of next generation gaming. With both Sony and Microsoft’s consoles having official names, the PS5 and Xbox Series X respectively, the new era of gaming feels closer than ever.
While concrete details are scarce, rumors are swirling around like a storm. To put some order to it all, the following list will detail ten rumors about the next generation that could potentially be true. Some are more far-reaching than others, but even the most outlandish ones may have an ounce of truth to them.
10 The Extent Of Backward Compatibility
Microsoft really pulled through this generation with backward compatibility. The only way to experience older PlayStation games on the PS4 was through PS Now, a service which many considered lackluster. Both companies already mentioned the feature as a part of their next-gen plans, but we don’t know how far they are willing to take it. Some reports indicate that both systems will allow discs from any prior console to work on Xbox Series X and PS5. This would be a huge step for them and get around pesky licensing issues preventing certain games from re-releasing.
9 The Next PSVR With Finger Tracking
Sony’s current PSVR efforts are nice for console owners, but don’t hold a candle to the higher-powered competitors. If this rumor is to be believed, however, it seems like the company is upping its game for the future. A recent patent indicates finger tracking for the next edition of PSVR, which would open the door to a number of new and interesting gameplay opportunities. Maybe Half-Life: Alyx could make its way to the platform one day.
8 PS5 Launch Titles Having PS4 Versions
Microsoft has already confirmed Xbox Series X’s lack of exclusives for up to a year, a good sign for those unwilling or unable to immediately jump into the next generation. Sony has not made the same promise, but a rumor hints at similar plans for their system. On one hand, it helps people not feel left out. On the other, early adopters may feel cheated. At the same time, a new console is more than just games. The convenience, load times, and new UI features make experiencing a similar game on a new console worth the investment.
7 A Switch Pro (But Not In 2020)
The Nintendo Switch is still riding high from its 2017 launch and its sales have been helped by the new Switch Lite. Rumors heavily circulated recently about a new model coming this year, but Nintendo denied such talk. However, the DS had the DSi and the 3DS had the New 3DS, so it is not crazy to assume a souped-up Switch will hit shelves within the next couple of years.
6 All The Rumored Games
Xbox Series X is already getting Halo: Infinite and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2. Sony has not confirmed any launch titles or upcoming games for the console, but speculation is running rampant about the system’s early lineup.
Along with a sequel to Horizon: Zero Dawn and God of War, one can also place their bets on a Naughty Dog project, which could potentially be a new IP. The company also recently bought Insomniac, who are no doubt hard at work on a new Spider-Man game.
5 A Camera On The PS5 (But Not Anymore)
This is a weird one. Early reports about the PS5 controller had a camera on the device. More recent ramblings about it say Sony ditched the feature due to a lack of components to get the controllers manufactured efficiently and on time. Whichever one is true is hard to say. The consoles may end up releasing with a hefty price tag, so removing any excess features to keep costs down is not the worst idea in the world. Having a camera on the controller does sound pretty cool, though.
4 Epic Games Store And Steam On Xbox Series X
This is the least likely of all the rumors, but seeing Microsoft’s recent openness with Nintendo makes us think there is a thread of hope for seeing Epic Games Store and Steam on Xbox Series X. It would be the other two marketplaces that would prevent it from happening. Then again, Microsoft may not want something competing with its own store and Game Pass.
3 Sony Will Buy Kojima Productions
Death Stranding is one of the most bizarre and unique AAA titles to release in recent years. Its gameplay and story polarized both fans and critics. It was a commercial success by all accounts as well. Given the game’s current exclusivity - though a PC release is coming in the summer - and Hideo Kojima’s longtime relationship with Sony, the rumor about the company buying Kojima Productions is not too far fetched. This gossip also says the developer’s next title will be a horror game, an exciting concept for many fans who were disappointed at Silent Hills’ cancelation.
2 Xbox Series X Full Reveal Coming In Spring
The next generation is set to begin in the Fall of 2020. Two decades ago, years of hype would have led up to the event. The last generation activated the hype train later than usual, but rolled into the station hard once it did come.
Some say Microsoft will reveal the new console in Spring, with FromSoftware’s hotly-anticipated Elden Ring at the forefront of the presentation. One can also expect Halo: Infinite to show up as well.
1 PS5 Controller To Detect Heart-Rate, Sweat
A recent Sony patent reveals a potential novel feature for the DualShock 5. It doesn’t say what it could do with the information, but its grips may be able to detect heart-rate and sweat. Perhaps it could be used to change the game based on the readings, or it is simply technology they just started to fool around with and they have no intention to use it on the next system. Companies often file patents for things that ultimately go unused.
