Over the last year or so, it's not been particularly positive news when it comes to Xbox console sales, with Microsoft continuing to focus its efforts on PC and ROG Xbox Ally in recent months. That trend has been felt here in the UK, where Xbox Series X|S sales are down almost 40% in 2025; leading to "the worst year on record for Xbox consoles" according to Chris Dring.
Yep, The Game Business and former GamesIndustry.biz journalist has taken to Twitter in recent days to put this figure out there — while also questioning whether "the return of favourite Xbox franchises in 2026" could help console sales next year.
Despite this looking very doom and gloom for Microsoft and Xbox consoles, it's important to remember that renewed focus we mentioned up at the top; the team really isn't pushing Series X and S anymore. In fact, one Twitter response notes this strategy shift possibly leading to little improvement in 2026, which Dring and fellow Xbox reporter Jez Corden both agree with.
It's also worth mentioning that Xbox consoles have gone up in price multiple times in 2025, and that combined with a lack of sales promotions and exclusive software must have contributed to this drop off. It's certainly a shame to see, but it's no big surprise given how focused Microsoft seems to be on the PC, mobile and cloud gaming elements of its games business right now.