Microsoft Pitches New Original Content for Xbox, Including Interactive Movie and 'Halo' Live-Action Film
by Andy NeuenschwanderIs the Xbox One about to be the new Netflix?
Earlier today, Microsoft unveiled new details about its NewFronts project, which aims to bring brand new, original content to users of their Xbox One console and Xbox Live subscription service. It's a big leap for the software and hardware company to start producing films, but in a world where Netflix has two of the most talked-about dramas currently on air, it's anyone's game.
The first major offering isn't anything surprising: Microsoft is teaming up with Steven Spielberg to create a live-action "Halo" series, based on the popular video game series. This series was announced last year, and while it isn't a particularly groundbreaking idea, Spielberg's talent should help elevate the series. Plus, the show's target audience will be nearly 100% of people who own the console.
For a more exciting idea, Microsoft is also developing an interactive series called "Possabilia." The title might sound like a disease, but the concept is unique: The film will center on a couple having relationship troubles, and viewers will be able to interact with the narrative to decide how the couple ultimately breaks up.
These offerings might help push the Xbox One onto more consumers. While the console has a robust interface that allows users to control their TV, cable, and apps like Netflix and Hulu with voice commands and gestures while keeping them all in one device, it's not so different from some of the Smart TVs out there that have similar offerings.
Are you an Xbox One user? If not, would original shows be worth the $499 price tag to you? Let us know in the comments!