Microsoft has confirmed that their next console will not be compatible with Xbox or Xbox 360 games.  The reason being is architecture of the x86 CPU that the utilizes won’t allow the games built for Xbox 360’s Power-PC core to run.  So, hold on to your 360 if you’re looking to keep getting mileage out of your games because they’re not going to make the trip to the next generation.  Xbox Live Arcade games also won’t make the transfer for the same reasons, as expected.  However, your Xbox Live Gamertag and all the Achievements you’ve earned will be waiting for you when you boot up your Xbox One.

It’s disappointing that we won’t be able to carry our games of the now into the future, but it’s interesting to see how many similarities there are between the Xbox One hardware and the PS4.  The similarities suggest that cross-platform play may be a possibility in the future, which is an exciting prospect.

Sources:  Engadget, Joystiq