Microsoft’s Xbox Series X is the next-generation console that will stand head-to-head with Sony's PlayStation 5 - at least that's the idea based on how we traditionally perceive console generations. But, in a new interview with MCV UK, head of Xbox Game Studios Matt Booty paints the picture of a very different Xbox - that's in-line with how the platform has changed in recent years.

“As our content comes out over the next year, two years, all of our games, sort of like PC, will play up and down that family of devices,” Booty tells MCV UK. “We want to make sure that if someone invests in Xbox between now and [Series X] that they feel that they made a good investment and that we’re committed to them with content.”

Which when broken down means that all first-party Xbox Series X launch titles from Microsoft will also be playable on Xbox One - via Xbox Game Pass or individual sale. In a way it's a bold new direction for console launches, but Booty is quick to point out that Halo: Infinite will take full advantage of the Series X's hardware improvements to showcase the potential of next-gen gaming.

“Our approach is to pick one or two IP that we’re going to focus on and make sure that they’re there at the launch of the console, taking advantage of all the features. And for us that’s going to be Halo Infinite, which is a big opportunity," Booty adds. “It’s the first time in over 15 years that we’ll have a Halo title launching in sync with a new console. And that team is definitely going to be doing things to take advantage of [Series X].”

Which is good news but also a little concerning, in that traditionally players expect that a new game for a new console might not be technically feasible on previous generation hardware. With both the PS5 and the Series X offering high-speed SSD-style storage that can stream data at incredible speeds one has to wonder if design restrictions were placed on Halo: Infinite to accommodate the forwards and backwards compatible Xbox line. Time will tell of course, but Microsoft's decision to keep a single ecosystem for the launch of it's next console is commendable.

The interview covers a broad range of topics and is quite candid, so be sure to check it out in full.