Console specifications and technical achievements have been boasted since the early days of video-game system competition. The battle between SEGA and Nintendo in the 90s led to advertisements with a focus on specs and little has changed over twenty years later. David Prien, Senior Director of Hardware at Xbox, has taken to Twitter to ask gamers why they are interested in specs before a console is released.
There has been a long history of specifications being an essential part of a consoles marketing campaign. The last Xbox console, Project Scorpio, boasted louder than most about its technical aspects. It, therefore, seems odd that a member of the gaming industry who uses the twitter handle David "8K" Prien doesn't see how the gaming market has cultivated an interest in specs. Yet in an industry full of rumors and leaks, it is understandable that insiders may want to release information officially to consumers.
In light of recent Xbox Series X leaks, Prien asked: " Why do people want to know specs of anything so far in advance?". While some users agreed with the tweet and felt that it was unnecessary, others wanted to know which console to begin saving for in advance. Both sides have valid opinions and it currently seems that rumors are not shedding light on the facts of consoles. With that said it is surprising that a console developer, that has focused on specifications, has staff that do not understand why consumers want to know about factors that have been marketed as important.
The leaks about the Xbox Series X makes it sound like an impressive console and many will be happy if it delivers on its early promise. Yet factors like exclusives, affordability, and marketing are all factors in the success of a console. Prien's interest in specs swaying launch purchases is founded, as it seems many players have brand loyalty. What will likely be the key factor in persuading players is how the technical aspects of the console are marketed and what the console can do with its power.
There does seem to be frequent leaks about the next generation of consoles and many of these rumors have proven to be false. It is understandably frustrating for developers who lose control of the narrative of the console when there are leaks. However, consoles have utilized specifications to cultivate an audience for 30 years and Xbox have been a huge part of honing this focus. Therefore, when an appetite has been cultivated by the industry, it should not be a surprise when players are hungry for details on the subject.