Peter Molyneux has revealed he was aware of the original plans for Microsoft's Next Xbox,
though he isn't sure if the company has stuck to them.
In an interview with IGN, the founder of Lionhead and more recently 22cans revealed his hopes
that Microsoft will focus on creating "the ultimate gaming console" and not be sidetracked
into making an all-in-one entertainment device.
He said, "Well, it's a weird one for me because of course I was there and I knew what the
original plans were, and that's a year old now.
"It'll be fascinating to see how much they've stuck to those original plans and how much
they've deviated."
Some of you diehard gamers might enjoy Molyneux's thoughts on what a gaming console should be.
"There's a lot of things they could shove in that box which are kind of about the living
room, Netflix and about Facebook, Twittering and stuff like that.
Well, I don't want any of that.
I just want the ultimate gamer's device.
"If they focus on that I'll be a happy bunny.
If they get distracted, and overly distracted, by trying to play catch-up with some of the
Glass and touch technology that's out there, not because it makes sense for games but because
that's something they feel they have to do, then I'm going to be miffed."
He is referring to Google Glass, which is just now being distributed to early adopters.
He also revealed that, while impressed by Sony's conference, he isn't too worried about
Microsoft's ability to rise to the challenge of delivering an equally impressive event
on May 21.
He thinks Microsoft is brilliant at putting on stage shows.
But, quote: "The big question left in my mind and lots of people's minds, I think, is are
they going to be saying this is the ultimate gaming console or this is something everyone
should have in their living room?
Because those two messages...trying to mix those two messages may just end up confusing
people."
But he adds that if anyone can get that message across, it's Microsoft.
The next Xbox will be revealed on May 21.
You can watch it live here at IGN with pre- and post-show analysis and special guests.
For all your gaming news, stay tuned to IGN.