Following Sony's announcement that it will phase out physical disc copies of PlayStation games by 2028, speculation is mounting that Microsoft's next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, could adopt a similar all-digital approach. According to a report by The Verge, Xbox has not yet finalized whether Project Helix will include a disc drive, leaving the possibility that the console may be digital-only, akin to the Xbox Series S and the PS5 Digital Edition.
Windows Central Corroborates Uncertainty
The Verge's report was supported by Windows Central, with journalist Jez Corden stating on his podcast that Xbox is reportedly reconsidering the inclusion of a disc drive in Project Helix. "I went and tried to update my information, and it does seem like indeed - they are trying to figure out what they can do here before they fully commit to the death of physical discs," Corden said. This suggests that the company is still weighing its options amid growing backlash against Sony's decision.
Potential Backtrack in Response to Fan Outcry
Xbox's hesitation may be a direct response to the negative reaction Sony faced after its announcement. Last week, Xbox's Halo team appeared to mock Sony by promising that the physical edition of Halo Campaign Evolved would include a disc, describing it as a "tangible item to add to your collection." Additionally, Xbox could consider offering an optional external disc drive for Project Helix, similar to Sony's current solution for the PS5 Pro, which lacks a built-in drive.
Digital Sales Driving Industry Shift
Sony's data for the last quarter of its financial year revealed that approximately 85% of its game sales were digital, a key factor behind its move toward an all-digital future. While comparable data for Xbox is not publicly available, the Xbox Series S—a digital-only console—is believed to account for a significant portion of Xbox Series family sales due to its lower price point.
Project Helix as a PC/Console Hybrid
Unlike PlayStation's closed ecosystem, Project Helix is rumored to be a PC/console hybrid that could access multiple storefronts, including Steam and the Epic Games Store. If the console is all-digital, gamers would still have the option to purchase games from various platforms, reducing concerns about vendor lock-in. On PlayStation, users are restricted to the PlayStation Store unless regulatory bodies like the EU intervene, as happened with the Epic Games Store on Apple devices.
The final decision on Project Helix's disc drive remains uncertain, but the industry is watching closely as both console giants navigate the shift toward digital distribution.
