Microsoft, one of the leading companies in the technology industry, has had a significant impact on the world of video games through its Xbox brand. However, The story behind the creation of the original Xbox console is an intriguing narrative of internal conflicts and key decisions by Bill Gates.
Ed Friesone of the console’s co-creators, shared in an interview with IGN (via GamesRant) how Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, almost ended the Xbox project due to a dispute over the use of the Windows operating system.
The story begins with two internal Microsoft teams, each working on a different console concept. One of them proposed a “disguised PC”, while the other was more similar to the consoles existing at the time, such as the Dreamcast. Bill Gates’ preference fell on the idea of a gaming console running the Windows operating system, which led Ed Fries’ team to move forward with his concept.
The original Xbox underwent substantial changes compared to the original concept, as they ultimately opted not to use Windows at all, instead developing a custom operating system that worked especially well with games. However, during the development process, the Xbox was on the brink due to Bill Gates’ dissatisfaction with the decision made.
“The Valentine’s Day Massacre”
Ed Fries recalls a particularly tense episode, known as the Microsoft “Valentine’s Day Massacre,” in which Bill Gates expressed his anger at the development team for not following his original vision.
The situation changed course when an anonymous employee intervened and pointed out that Sony, with its successful PlayStation, could threaten Microsoft’s control of the market in the future. The insightful observation made Bill Gates and his team quickly change their minds and decide to fully support the Xbox project.
“And then Bill turns around and says, ‘I’m going to give them everything they want.’ That was the strangest meeting I’ve ever been to.”Fries said.
The result of this episode is the Xbox that gamers know today. Although the Xbox did not use Windows in its operating system, it has evolved and established tight integration with Windows in later generations.
The history of the Xbox is an example of how tenacity and adaptability can lead an iconic brand in the world of video games to overcome obstacles and transform over time. Bill Gates’ vision, although initially controversial, laid the foundation for one of the most successful consoles in history, and his legacy continues to influence the world of video games and technology.