Ed Fries, co-creator of Xbox and former Vice President of Game Publishing at Microsoft, has shared his perspective on the future of consoles and the broader gaming industry in a recent interview on The Expansion Pass YouTube channel.
Discussing the role of consoles, Fries emphasized their accessibility and comfort compared to PC gaming. “I just want to sit down in my comfy chair, kick up my feet in front of a big TV and have my controller in my hand and just play a game,” he said, noting that many players prefer a relaxed, straightforward experience over managing complex hardware setups. He added that building gaming PCs has become increasingly intricate, describing it as “more like a hobby,” while consoles remain an easier option for a wider audience.
Fries pushed back on recurring claims that consoles may be nearing their end. “That is why I do not think consoles are going away. I keep hearing oh consoles are going to die or this will be the last Xbox or something,” he said. He also referenced Microsoft’s Project Helix, describing it as “a really interesting project” and highlighting its potential to run both console and PC games. “It sounds like something I would buy,” he added, pointing to the growing overlap between platforms.
Reflecting on industry shifts, Fries also spoke about the evolving landscape of major studios, including Bungie. “To me it was so weird to launch Marathon and see a PlayStation logo come up on it even though I am playing on my Xbox right,” he said.
Looking at the broader market, Fries highlighted the continued expansion of the gaming business. “We are 25 years later. We are still making games and having fun and the business is bigger than ever,” he said, noting that the industry has grown to nearly $200 billion with a 7% year-over-year increase. He added that gaming has become “an important part of culture” and everyday entertainment.
Fries’ comments reflect a view that, despite ongoing technological shifts and platform convergence, consoles continue to play a central role in how players engage with games.
