Xbox 360 Is Halfway Through Its Lifecycle, Microsoft Says

Microsoft is confident in its Xbox 360 console and, in the midst of rumors hinting at the arrival of its replacement next year, has revealed that the current device is just halfway through its lifecycle.

Lots of people are talking about the next generation of consoles, from developers and publishers, like Electronic Arts or Ubisoft, to actual hardware companies, like Sony.

Now, as rumors and speculation are deeming the announcement of a brand new Xbox console next year, Microsoft has decided to share its thoughts on the subject, through the voice of Xbox Europe, Middle East and Africa division vice president Chris Lewis.

He talked with UK magazine MCV, via CVG, and revealed that the current Xbox 360, which is currently six years old, still has lots of life ahead of it, and that the recent increase in sales is great proof.

"We see it as about halfway through. But yes you are right, Xbox is defying the normal curve you might expect. There's no doubt that Kinect put a huge shot of adrenaline into the business. What we are now seeing is massive swathes of families and younger audiences flocking to it. As you saw at the press conference, we are now in line with what we projected at E3 2010."

A major role in this extended lifecycle is given to the Kinect, as the sensor is now being geared towards hardcore gamers that want to see it used on more mature experiences, not just sport, dance or other such games.

"What you won't see is us contriving that," he said. "What you will see is us using Kinect to enhance the experience and not detract from it. I don't think our core gamers will tolerate anything else from us."

Plenty of interesting games were showcased by Microsoft at E3 2011, some built specifically for the Kinect while others had support for it with certain features.

Microsoft’s current statements echo the ones from Sony, which also believes its PlayStation 3 is at the halfway point in its lifecycle.