- GTA 6 is coming soon, and analysts believe it could be the perfect moment for Microsoft to push the Xbox Series S|X.
- The Xbox Series S’ budget-friendly nature could encourage millions to buy the console to play the latest Grand Theft Auto title.
- If Microsoft can play its cards right, it may finish the generation on a strong note following this momentum.
GTA 6 is quickly approaching its Fall 2025 release window, leaving just 6-7 more months before the game arrives. Rockstar Games’ latest epic is set to skip PC and launch exclusively on PS5 and Xbox Series S|X later this year.
This means that, for the first time in many years, a blockbuster of Grand Theft Auto’s scale won’t be available to the millions of PC gamers. In a way, this creates an exciting opportunity for the console industry, and analysts believe this may be Microsoft’s last chance to redeem the Xbox Series S|X.
Why it matters: Xbox Series S|X sales have been nothing but abysmal in recent years, forcing Microsoft to shift to a third-party approach. However, GTA 6 could end up being this Xbox generation’s saving grace.
Speaking to Windows Central, Midia Research analyst Rhys Elliot explained that PlayStation has already won the console generation.
However, in the case of GTA 6, the Xbox Series S has a unique strength. Because Microsoft’s budget console is by far the cheapest option on the market, it could see a major sales surge as new customers rush to buy current-gen hardware for Rockstar Games’ latest title.
The analyst states that Microsoft must do its best to advertise this strength, adding discounts for the perfect lightning-in-a-bottle moment. Rhys Elliot also explained that PlayStation is expected to secure marketing rights for GTA 6.
This would make the situation even more tricky for Microsoft, giving it no room for error.
Xbox could use the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 as a last hurrah for its Series S|X generation.
The analyst also acknowledged that Take-Two would want to sell most copies on PS5 due to the higher install base. As such, the odds seem to be against Microsoft, but there is still hope for a major Xbox Series S|X comeback.
Do you think the Xbox consoles can use GTA 6 to finish the generation on a strong note? Let’s discuss this in the comments and on the Tech4Gamers Forums.
Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋
How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔
[Senior News Reporter]
Avinash is currently pursuing a Business degree in Australia. For more than 5 years, he has been working as a gaming journalist, utilizing his writing skills and love for gaming to report on the latest updates in the industry. Avinash loves to play action games like Devil May Cry and has also been mentioned on highly regarded websites, such as IGN, GamesRadar, GameRant, Dualshockers, CBR, and Gamespot.
Join Our Community
