The impact of coronavirus on the video game industry is becoming palpable as Microsoft and Sony just announced they will not attend GDC 2020. This may make you wonder what other disruptions we can expect. Could Xbox Series X production slow down as a result of the virus? Is it possible that the release window might end up shifting to a later date?
Could Coronavirus Slow Xbox Series X Production?
There is already concern among reporters and others that coronavirus could lead to delays in production for next-gen consoles. As quoted in that article, the financial services company Jeffries Group said, “The video game sector is currently manufacturing, or beginning to, a once-in-several-years’ product generation change for the 2020 holiday season. If [company] shutdowns exceed a month or so, game schedules will be delayed. New consoles may likewise suffer supply issues from a prolonged disruption, ahead of their Fall 2020 planned launches.”
As of the time of this writing, there is really no new information on coronavirus and console production. We know that Microsoft is having some difficulties when it comes to PCs, but not Xbox One consoles. But things could be very different when demand for next gen technology is factored in.
There is a tendency toward panic whenever there is an epidemic like this, so we don’t want to ring any alarmist bells. At the same time, it is important to be realistic and understand that it would not be far-fetched at all for Xbox Series X production (and PS5 production) to hit some snags.
We hope that Microsoft and Sony will be able to manufacture at full capacity to meet the holiday 2020 release window. But as a consumer, you should accept in advance that you may or may not get your next gen console when you expect it. Either way, start saving up money now. Hopefully by the time the consoles do release, whether this year or next, you’ll be able to buy one right away.