Xbox unveils “Project Helix” and it can play “Xbox and PC games”

Expect to hear more about Microsoft’s “next generation” Xbox at GDC 2026

Microsoft’s Asha Sharma, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming (Xbox), has unveiled Project Helix. Helix is the codename for Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox console, and Microsoft plans to discuss the system in depth at GDC 2026.

Project Helix will be able to play “Xbox and PC games”. This means that Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox is effectively a PC/console hybrid. This should mean that the console will be able to access 3rd party PC gaming storefronts. That could mean that Steam, the Epic Games Store, and GOG could be available on Microsoft’s next-generation console. Alternatively, Microsoft could force developers to their their Windows/Microsoft store.

Note that Microsoft has stated that Helix will “lead in performance”, implying a strong generational leap in hardware capabilities. Leaked specifications for Microsoft’s next-generation console suggest that the system will use an AMD Zen 6 CPU and an AMD RDNA 5 GPU. Furthermore, the system will reportedly include an NPU, giving it enhanced AI capabilities.

Great start to the morning with Team Xbox, where we talked about our commitment to the return of Xbox including Project Helix, the code name for our next generation console.

Project Helix will lead in performance and play your Xbox and PC games. Looking forward to chatting about… pic.twitter.com/Xx5rpVnAZI

— Asha (@asha_shar) March 5, 2026

Microsoft’s next-generation console is expected to launch next year. At GDC, Microsoft will be trying to build interest in the system and get developers to create games for the console.

One thing to ponder is whether future PCs will be able to play Xbox games. After all, if an Xbox can play PC games, why can’t a PC play Xbox games? There are rumours that Microsoft are working on an Xbox emulator for PC.

You can join the discussion on Xbox’s “Project Helix” on the OC3D Forums.