Microsoft looks beyond the console wars as it releases new Xboxes alongside Sony’s PS5

Microsoft looks beyond the console wars as it releases new Xboxes alongside Sony’s PS5

A customer carries away a PlayStation 5 console at an electronics store in Sydney on November 12, 2020, on the day of PS5 official launch.Saeed Khan | AFP | Getty ImagesMicrosoft and Sony both released new video game consoles this week: Microsoft has the $500 Xbox Series X and $300 Series S, while Sony has two models of PlayStation 5, starting at $400.The last generation of consoles released by both lasted about seven years. With the latest systems, Microsoft and Sony are employing different strategies to attract gamers and generate even more revenue from gamers.A lot is on the line.The pandemic has given people more free time to play games. Gamers could stay hooked for years to come, which means big business for both companies.Gaming represents 24% of Sony's revenue.