Microsoft could delay Xbox 720 launch ‘until spring 2014’, says Pachter

Despite the nonstop rumors that call for a 2013 release for next-gen consoles from Microsoft and Sony, Wedbush's Michael Pachter believes a 2014 release is more likely — at least for the next Xbox.

“We have heard no word yet from Microsoft or Sony about their plans to launch new consoles, but both manufacturers are widely expected to launch consoles by year-end 2013," Pachter wrote in an industry note. "Although we believe that Microsoft could delay a new console launch until spring of 2014 in order to accommodate what is certain to be overwhelming demand among hardcore gamers.”

Nobody knows exactly what Microsoft or Sony is planning, but Pachter is right in that demand is certain to be overwhelming. Rumors and expectations for new consoles from Sony and Microsoft are at an all time high. Regardless of Pachter's claims, many believe we will see the Xbox 720 or PS4 in 2013. Some industry experts have even gone so far as to claim they've already seen the next-gen consoles. Recently we've already seen images of the Xbox 720 development kit along with the new Kinect 2 peripheral. Still, the release remains largely a mystery.

As does the release of Nintendo's next-gen console, the Wii U, which still doesn't have an exact launch date outside of the Holiday 2012 window. Pachter briefly touched on the subject of the Wii U's release, predicting a price ranging between $300 and $350.

“We still have no indication of specs, timing or pricing for the Wii U, which is slated to launch some time before year-end, but Nintendo will announce a launch date and price next week, with a price point of $299 – 349 likely,” he said.

The announcement Pachter is referring to is expected to be made at an exclusive press event which will take place in New York on Thursday, September 13. Nintendo hasn't confirmed that they will announce any release date or price, but that seems to be the overall consensus heading into the event. Boy, will we all be let down if they don't reveal anything new.

All we know for sure is that the presentation will be hosted by Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime and will address "how the Wii U will change the future of gaming and entertainment". Last we heard, the Wii U is expected to release on November 18, or sometime during the week of Black Friday.

To talk next-gen consoles, including PS4, Xbox 720, and Wii U follow @Matt_GZ on Twitter.

[VG247]