It’s difficult to start thinking about the next line of video game systems when the current ones haven’t even been fully exploited for all their worth yet. While graphics continue to advance on a daily basis, it’s understandable that these non-upgradable systems will be replaced in the relative future. But out of all the next-gen systems, Microsoft doesn’t seem like they have the need to be the first out of the gate again.

Robbie Bach has stated that the lead gave Microsoft the leg up they needed for this generation, and is definitely worth the work to be the first out the door next time. The question is, will Nintendo beat them too it, considering the Wii isn’t much more than a Gamecube 1.5.

Leading a generation of systems usually involves a lot of broken systems and extended warranties. Can Microsoft pull it off this time without a red ring of death?