Analyst claims new Xbox console is ‘already dead’ as Microsoft backs Game Pass
Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter has claimed the next Xbox console is “already dead”, arguing that Microsoft’s aggressive pivot to Game Pass has fatally undermined its hardware business.
The outspoken analyst took aim at the company’s recent strategy, specifically the push toward high-cost subscription tiers over traditional sales to drive the brand forward.
“I think the console is dead,” said Pachter, speaking to Wccftech regarding the platform’s future. “I think they’ve already blown it with the console by embracing Game Pass.”
Pachter criticized the rumored $30 monthly price point for the Ultimate tier, suggesting the “all or nothing” model is effectively telling consumers “f*** you” if they don’t want to subscribe. He argued a lower-cost “cafeteria” approach would have been sustainable, whereas the current “buffet” model provides too much value at too high a cost to the hardware ecosystem.
While recent reports suggest the next Xbox is still targeting a 2027 window, Microsoft’s immediate focus remains padding the Game Pass library with titles like Sumerian Six rather than driving unit sales.Capcom has released the latest trailer for the “Alex Arrives!” Fighting Pass in Street Fighter 6, offering the first proper look at the returning Street Fighter III protagonist in action. The New York grappler brings a heavy visual overhaul and a reworked kit to the modern era just ahead of his launch next month.
Making his first mainline appearance since the controversial roster of SFV, Alex returns with a bulkier physique that leans heavily into his wrestling roots. This isn’t a simple legacy port, either – the footage suggests a shift towards a stance-heavy gameplan via his new “Prowler Stance,” which opens up modular command grabs and mobility options that should play nicely with SF6‘s aggressive Drive system. Longtime fans will spot the classic Power Bomb and Flash Axe, though they land with significantly more crunch here.
Beyond the character himself, the Fighting Pass pads out the experience with the usual cosmetics. We’re looking at new EX colors for fellow heavy hitters Zangief and Akuma, plus challenger screens for Marisa and E. Honda. You can also fire up the 1987 arcade classic Black Tiger in the Battle Hub, if you need a breather from eating dirt in ranked.
Alex officially joins the roster on March 17, 2026, available via the Year 3 Character Pass or individually with Fighter Coins. We’re keeping our eyes peeled for Ingrid next – but that’s a headache for another day.
