GameStop CEO: next Xbox a very hot, compelling device

GameStop CEO J. Paul Raines says he’s impressed by what he’s learnt from Microsoft about its next Xbox and thinks consumers will be too when the platform holder finally gets round to announcing it.

Raines told GamesIndustry International: "We've been spending a lot of time with Microsoft, but we have to let them take the lead on this, but it will be a very hot, compelling device. They are doing some really cool stuff, and I'm eager to hear them start their announcements because I think the world is going to stand up and take notice.”

Speaking to investors and analysts on GameStop’s fourth quarter earnings call last week, the retailer’s executive vice president, Michael Hogan, said the firm is “still waiting to see” Microsoft's launch plans for the next Xbox. "We know that Sony will introduce the PlayStation 4 globally in 2013,” he added, hinting at something Sony itself has yet to confirm.

Microsoft has been heavily tipped to announce its next Xbox in late April. For more on the console, check out our Xbox 720 rumour round-up.