The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact the world over, and that, of course, has extended to the games industry as well. Major events like GDC and E3 2019 have been cancelled, while there has also been talk of the planned Holiday 2020 launches of the PS5 and the Xbox Series X getting pushed back due to manufacturing issues being caused as a result of the epidemic.
According to independent research firm DFC Intelligence, in fact, that is a very real possibility. In a statement published by the firm (via Forbes), they states that due to the economy being “in an unprecedented state of uncertainty” and manufacturing lines having been disrupted, there is “a strong likelihood” that one or both of Sony and Microsoft’s upcoming next-gen consoles might not be able to hit their intended Holiday 2020 launch dates.
“Coronavirus is likely to have a major short-term impact on the delivery of both systems,” the analyst firm wrote. “There is a strong likelihood one or both systems will not make a 2020 launch. If the systems do launch, supply will likely be constrained and initial pricing could be higher than expected.
“Currently the economy is in an unprecedented state of uncertainty. Even if the situation clears up in a few weeks, the ability to manufacture and release a high-end new game system has already been severely impacted.”
However, the firm also believes that in spite of the issues both console manufacturers are facing right now, the good news for them is that whenever they do launch, both systems will launch to heavy demand, which should mean that “this is a comparatively short-term crisis.”
“The good news is that consumer demand is likely to be stronger than ever,” they wrote. “Demand will far exceed supply and long-term that could increase overall sales. In addition, the abundance of government and public caution should help assure this is a comparatively short-term crisis.
“Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X will release to record consumer demand. The challenge Sony and Microsoft face are making sure they release systems that meet expectations. Given the current situation, waiting to make sure they get the initial product right is the most prudent choice.”
It goes without saying that curbing the evolving situation of the pandemic should take priority over all else, while 2020’s stacked lineup of current-gen games is also looking like more than enough to offset any possible delays to next-gen consoles. That said, this is, as mentioned, an evolving situation, so there’s no way to be sure of what might end up happening- stay tuned to GamingBolt, and we’ll keep you updated on any and all developments.