Xbox Scarlett: 9 CONFIRMED Console Details You Need To Know

1. Holiday 2020 Release Date

Finally, after months of speculation, we know that the next-generation is officially kicking off in late 2020. Microsoft announced that Scarlett will be dropping next holiday, which is in line with leaks and rumours doing the rounds over the past few months. Consequently, unless Sony jump the gun and get out ahead of the competition (which is unlikely), it seems all but locked in that both companies will launch their next machines before 2020 is out.

While that may be too soon for some people, seven years for a generation is about right. Likewise, both companies have made it clear that they want the transition into the next generation to be smoother than ever, with the current consoles remaining relevant for longer than old hardware usually does.

It also puts this year's E3 into perspective. The showing has been criticised for lacking major surprise reveals and extensive gameplay highlight reels, and that's probably because these companies are now focused on next-gen. Both the Xbox One and the PS4 have major games set to release between now and next fall, but in hindsight, fans will probably come to see 2019 as a transitional period, as publishers and developers geared up for the next-gen's arrival in 2020.