While we're already seeing the 8th year of the current console generation there's no argument people are starting to look at what's next. Sure, there might still be enough power left to exploit the systems' components, but people are ready for something new. For Ubisoft it is essential to see new hardware coming.
According to CEO and co-founder Yves Guillemot at Ubisoft in an interview with Gamasutra, the current consoles are holding back progress and innovation within the industry.
"What we missed was a new console every five years," he says. "We have been penalized by the lack of new consoles on the market. I understand the manufacturers don't want them too often because it's expensive, but it's important for the entire industry to have new consoles because it helps creativity."
Guillemot also stresses that it is difficult to introduce new IP's on older consoles. He supposes this is also the reason why there are currently many sequels being produced.
"It's a lot less risky for us to create new IPs and new products when we're in the beginning of a new generation," he says. "Our customers are very open to new things. Our customers are reopening their minds -- and they are really going after what's best. ... At the end of a console generation, they want new stuff, but they don't buy new stuff as much. They know their friends will play Call of Duty or Assassin's Creed so they go for that. So the end of a cycle is very difficult."
What do you think of Guillemot's statement? Can we say the consoles have weighed down the industry?