Rumors of the "end of Xbox" and the alleged mass removal of Microsoft consoles and games from store shelves have flared up online. It was reported that major chains like Costco, Target, and Walmart are allegedly removing Xbox, leaving only PlayStation and Nintendo products. Players took this as a signal that the "traditional Xbox" may disappear from the market.
The source of the hype is posts from store employees claiming that Xbox departments are shrinking, shelves are emptying, and games and controllers are disappearing. There were also mentions of equipment sales before its complete withdrawal from sale.
But the situation turned out to be more complicated. Windows Central checked the data and spoke with employees. One Target employee stated that the network does not plan to completely remove Xbox products. Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb noted:
"I visited several Target and GameStop stores this week. I saw Xbox games and accessories on sale everywhere."
Journalists confirmed that even if the Xbox Series X was temporarily out of stock, the Series S remains available in offline and online stores. Microsoft uses a "build-to-order" production system to avoid overproduction. Part of the chips is also used for Xbox Cloud Gaming, which may affect the availability of consoles in stores.
The company officially stated:
"Target and Walmart, like other retailers, remain our partners in selling Xbox consoles, accessories, and games."
