Rumours surrounding Project Lockhart, the supposed codename for a cheaper variation of the Xbox Series X, have been thrown a new nugget of information.
It’s has been widely assumed that a more affordable Xbox Series X console, akin to the current generation Xbox One S All-Digital, would have a less powerful CPU. However, The Verge’s Tom Warren has tweeted that he no longer believes this to be the case:
In a later tweet, Warren suggested that the system would run with 7.5GB GDDR6 RAM. Warren is considered a reliable source of information for unannounced and pending Microsoft and Xbox products and services. However, Microsoft has not confirmed these tweets, and Warren has been wrong in the past.
As speculation in the tweet’s replies reflected, this information suggests that the Lockhart Xbox variation will target those looking for a 1440p experience with 60fps, rather than the Series X’s 4K resolution (8K ready) and 120fps potential. The 4K market is still relatively small, and the 8K even more so – a choice by Microsoft to offer a lower resolution would be a smart move.
The Xbox Series name, minus the 'X', was also recently submitted for trade marking, again suggesting a range of next-gen Series consoles. Code in Window's System 32 was also discovered, which directly references the Lockhart name.
This rumour comes hot on the heels of Xbox boss Phil Spencer's strong indication that the Xbox All Access subscription service will be surviving the next-gen console leap. This credit financing option, ran in the UK though GAME and Smyths Toys, would in theory open up the Xbox Series console (or range of consoles) to those looking for budget access to cutting-edge gaming.
Sony has already confirmed that two PS5 consoles will be launching this holiday season, with a diskless all-digital model being available at a lower price point. However, we have not yet had confirmation of what this price difference will be.