While the company haven’t openly confirmed their plans, it has been reported that Microsoft have contacted the Gamescom organisers to book their place among the developing crowd at Cologne, Germany. Sources have suggested that the Xbox One will be central to the conference, and the company plans to reaffirm the core message and ideology behind Microsoft’s third home console as well as addressing the Xbox 360’s European status. An official, unnamed Microsoft spokesperson had this to say:
“We’re excited to be back at Gamescom this year but we’re not announcing any further details on our plans at this time. Please stay tuned for more details.”
Though the German trade show is better known for its software-centric focus, it seems the American developer will take the opportunity – for the third time, no less – to host a full-scale press conference in order to address the mixed messaging behind the Xbox One. What’s more, this is the first time that Microsoft have felt the need to take the stage for an hour-long presentation at Gamescom – in comparison to Sony and EA’s annual conferences – and it will be interesting to see how the company recovers audience perception.
A lot has happened since E3 last month. Despite the persistent statements, online requirements and controversial digital rights management were dropped by Microsoft in order to quell the backlash. This unprecedented u-turn was a sure response to Sony’s press conference in LA, and now, with the company confirmed to take the stage at Cologne, Gamescom will offer a third, and surely final, opportunity for the industry giant to gain some lost ground on its chief competitor before the holiday release.
In saying that, while the microscopic focus on Xbox One will take up the majority of Microsoft’s public address, the company are also poised to touch on the Xbox 360 – including exploring methods to secure the console’s footing in certain EU territories. Territories that have been dominated by Sony hitherto. Needless to say, Gamescom will act as another mile marker on the quickly diminishing road to next-gen. And a crucial one at that.
A firm release date? Another chance to woo the gaming community, perhaps? What do you think, will Microsoft be able to steer the Xbox One back on course at Gamescom? Let us know below.