MORE X-BOX SPECULATION
September 12, 1999

Word has been spreading like wild that Microsoft will be entering the video game console world (despite being a "partner" of Sega). Although nothing is official on the console yet, it would not surprise most peple if Microsoft were to enter the console race.

Although Microsoft denies the development of X-Box, the Sunday Times reported today that a number of developers were briefed with details on the console at the ECTS in London this past weekend. Companies were reportedly taken to a nearby hotel and asked to sign non-disclosure agreements (so they could help contribute to the official status that this is just a "rumor").

Microsoft is a technology partner in the recently released Sega Dreamcast, but some say they are unsatisfied with the system's progress (if this is true, apparently, the most successful day in the history of interactive entertainment just isn't enough).

According to the Sunday Times, Chris Deering, president of Sony computers in Europe, said, "If there is any truth in these rumors, the move seems to be a signal of disappointment, and one of loss of confidence in Sega's new Dreamcast in which Microsoft is a partner."

Of course, this comment coming from Sony is of no surprise, as the company has been attempting to downplay its obvious fear of the Dreamcast since earlier this year in any way possible by trying to minimize the accomplishments of Sega with the new system.

Additionally, Sony was previously a Nintendo technology partner, so if/when X-Box materializes, Microsoft will possibly follow a similar path that Sony followed: 1) have almost no involvement at all in video games, 2) partner with a major player in the gaming world, 3) leave that partner with what you've learned from them during the course of the partnership, 4) take what you've learned with you to make your own system, 5) begin selling video games and systems, 6) use your money, power, and company establishment to push your way to the forefront of the gaming world, 7) take most of the former "partner"'s market share as you make your way to the top.

Despite Microsoft's claims, it seems to be getting more and more evident that X-Box will be released, with a most likely launch date somewhere in the neighborhood of Nintendo's Project Dolphin. A lot of people wouldn't be surprised if Microsoft "stabbed Sega in the back", as it wouldn't be something new.

If Matsushita (whose M2 failed) does to Nintendo what Sony did to them and what Microsoft appears to be doing to Sega, it won't be surprising if yet another electronics giant without video game experience were to enter the gaming world and try to push Sega and Nintendo out. Let's just hope for the sakes of Nintendo and Sega and all their great video game development skills that this does not become a common trend.

Source: AnchorDesk