Epic Games Confirms Next-Gen Xbox Console Plans

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A top executive at Epic Games has indicated that the next Xbox will have the Epic Games Store available as soon as it launches. Although specifics are still being worked out, Epic is expected to play a significant role in Microsoft’s efforts to make the new Xbox more open and welcoming to different game publishers.

Throughout 2025, numerous online reports have suggested the next Xbox could combine the power of a PC with the convenience of a console. This would mean developers could create games for it using a standard PC toolkit, possibly an improved version of Microsoft’s Game Development Kit. Like the new ROG Xbox Ally handheld – which offers both the Xbox Store and Steam – the new Xbox might also support multiple digital game stores. These rumors seem more likely given recent comments from Microsoft, which indicate they’re planning a more open and versatile Xbox experience that lets players easily continue games across different devices.

Epic Games Store Is Coming to Next-Gen Xbox Console

Epic Games Store General Manager Steve Allison recently told Game File that Epic Games is aware of Microsoft’s more open approach with its next generation of Xbox consoles and intends to launch the Epic Games Store on them. Allison stated that Microsoft has indicated it will welcome the Epic Games Store, and Epic plans to be available “on day one” when the new consoles launch.

Epic Games Store Xbox Version Hasn’t Actually Started Development Yet

Dominik Bošnjak / Game Rant | Source image: Epic Games

It’s still unclear if the next Xbox will allow other game stores, like Epic’s, to operate on it. Even Epic doesn’t have definitive answers right now. According to one official, plans to bring Epic’s game marketplace to the new Xbox are very early stage, and Microsoft will likely require Epic to create specific software to make it work. This suggests that actual development hasn’t begun yet, as of early 2026.

We fully intend to support the new Xbox hardware. As long as Microsoft doesn’t change their position, they’ve indicated they’ll welcome it, and we plan to be ready from the very beginning.

Epic Also Asked PlayStation and Nintendo About Bringing Its Store to Their Consoles

In the same interview, Allison revealed Epic Games is actively trying to bring its store to PlayStation and Nintendo consoles, stating they discuss it with both companies frequently. However, Sony and Nintendo aren’t currently interested. Allison explained that while they don’t outright reject the idea, they usually respond by saying it’s not something they’re planning at the moment. This means the next generation of Xbox consoles is currently positioned to be the first to support the Epic Games Store.

Epic Could Help Define Some Next-Gen Xbox Policies

If Microsoft does allow other companies to offer game stores on the new Xbox, Epic Games could be one of the first to try it out. This initial test would help determine exactly how open Microsoft will be, influencing rules about things like security, refunds, game approvals, and any fees charged. This also fits with Epic’s existing plans to expand its store to more devices, including a recently launched mobile version in some areas.

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In early February 2026, AMD CEO Lisa Su stated that development of the special chip for Microsoft’s next Xbox was going smoothly and on schedule for a 2027 release. This led some experts to believe the new Xbox could arrive in late 2027. However, fluctuating prices for essential memory components might cause Microsoft to postpone the launch until those costs become more stable, even if the chip itself is ready to manufacture by then.

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2026-02-07 03:34