Dataminers have found information that references Xbox Lockhart in the Windows Operating System, giving more credence to the idea that Microsoft is developing two new next-gen Xbox consoles.
It has long been rumored that Microsoft will launch two skews of next-gen Xbox consoles. Currently, Microsoft has multiple variations of the Xbox One available for sale, including the Xbox One S and the Xbox One X. The idea of maintaining a skewed system moving forward is something that has been tossed around for years. Now, the datamined information posted by Twitter user TitleOS and others adds fuel to the speculation.
TitleOS dug into the Windows’ System32 library files and found references to Xbox Lockhart in multiple places. The datamining also showed information regarding Xbox Anaconda, the project name for Xbox Series X. The ongoing theory has been that the already announced Xbox Series X will be the powerful and more expensive skew, while Xbox Lockhart will be the lower-priced alternative.
Because Microsoft has been using the "S" and "X" model to determine between varying levels of their product, it would make sense for the Xbox Lockhart to eventually be revealed as the Xbox Series S. This Xbox Series S/Project Lockhart console would be less powerful but give fans a reason to jump into the next generation without unloading too much cash.
It is likely that the PS5 and Xbox Series X will compare closely to one another. The difference in terms of how Sony and Micorosft start this next generation may come down the Microsoft having Lockhart as a smart alternative and cheaper console for gamers.
Some Xbox Series X games will be playable on the Xbox One, but not all. Many fans may want to stick with the Xbox One for a bit and still be able to enjoy some next-gen games like Halo Infinite, if possible. However, for the games that can't be played, and or for those who really want to get into the next-generation but may not yet be able to afford it, having a cheaper model makes sense.
Up until this point, many of the Lockhart ideas were rumors without substance, so this datamine find is huge to show that Microsoft actually does have something called Xbox Lockhart up its sleeve. Whether or not that actually means that it will release a two skewed console this Fall is yet to be determined.
Xbox Series X is scheduled to launch later this fall.
MORE: Amazon Accepting First PS5 and Xbox Series X Game Pre-Order