As the Nintendo Switch enters the 8th generation of technology, both Sony and Microsoft are already pondering the opportunity to move a step closer to the 9th generation. After all, Sony’s PS4 Pro is already capable of maximizing the capabilities of a 4K TV, whilst also introducing virtual reality to the masses. That’s not to mention Microsoft’s upcoming efforts to introduce a similar console; the Scorpio. Here’s the problem; you need a giant leap to jump from one generation to another. In other words, we are half way there towards the 9th generation, potentially. Confused? Read on.

Your smartphone is likely connected to a 3G or 4G internet connection, however, they both share something in common: the next big step forward is 5g (5th generation). In layman’s terms, each major leap is signified as a generation. This term doesn’t just apply to mobile internet. Thus, it is this very reason as to why the PS4 Pro wasn’t labelled the PS5, and the Xbox Scorpio will fail to deliver something on a scale anywhere near enough to reach 9th generation, too.

Nintendo’s decision to launch the Switch should certainly be considered controversial. Why? It’s not a powerhouse console that is ready to make the leap into the unknown, but rather it is ready to provide an interesting and unique alternative at the level we are currently at (8th generation). One worry I have with Nintendo is that they are taking a similar direction to that of the SEGA Dreamcast. They feel the need to react, but is what they have to offer really enough to bring along the masses of sales needed to succeed? Let’s stay faithful – this could happen and lead us onto a 9th generation console in the future from Nintendo.Microsoft’s intentions are also clear, they wish to evolve their Windows operating system and also bring to market a new console, named the Scorpio. Of course, this has many fans of the Xbox brand excited. Sadly, the Xbox One has dented faith within the brand, but hope is still high that the Scorpio can produce something different. Sadly, Microsoft’s evolved focus towards a unified operating system, Windows, might actually turn out to be a distraction from what really matters to gamers.

Sony’s introduction of virtual reality has proven successful, so far; PlayStation VR is currently the go to experience for gamers wanting to enter a new dimension of gaming – which is done really well. Furthermore, Sony’s PS4 Pro equivalently enables 4K TV owners to experience some of the best games in the richest resolution currently available. Are you sensing a trend? Sony isn’t just succeeding, but the technology they are introducing matches perfectly with the content provided.

If SEGA had of remained within the market of manufacturing consoles, then we could easily be talking about the Dreamcast 2. Still, many wish to see shock-waves sent through the gaming community by such an announcement, even though the chances of this are minute.

Simply put, Sony’s path forward isn’t technology upgrades, but rather, the games and exclusives that power their recent tech innovations – the PS4 Pro and PS VR. However, the PS4 provides the foundation layer, meaning every single person involved with the PlayStation 4 brand-cycle can get involved, whenever, and at which ever level.

Thinking ahead, only time will tell as to what the Xbox Scorpio and Nintendo Switch can achieve. One thing is clear; neither console can be regarded as 9th generation. If Sony is ahead of the game, which they certainly seem to be within the console market, then wouldn’t they be in the perfect position to entertain the announcement of a 9th generation in the coming years? Other questions that we could ask might be: Would it be called the PS5? When should it actually be released? There certainly seem to be many signals suggesting that Sony is prepared to produce a 9th generation console. This will certainly be a topic that we re-visit again soon.

Who do you think should make the next move? Your views matter here at Gamerbolt, so don’t be shy; please leave your comments below.