The previous stage of Microsoft's Xbox One publicity tour was their own Build Developer Conference back in June. That won't be the last stop on their journey though, as reports indicate that Microsoft will host a press conference at Gamescom, the world's largest gaming event.
CVG reports that Microsoft plans to use this opportunity to grab a foothold in European markets for their upcoming next-gen console. In the past, with the exception of 2012, Microsoft has generally had a presence at the Gamescom trade fair. If the reports are true however, this will be the first time that the company will be hosting a full-blown, E3 style press conference, unlike Nintendo and Sony, who regularly hold their own.
This decision would make a lot of sense. Microsoft has been struggling to clarify its message and branding, and even with the recent, and stunning, reversal of their online policies, the company has still been having to work overtime to get consumers back on their side.
Gamescom is a massive event, and would provide them with the audience they need to get their message across. Microsoft will have access to over 275,000 visitors with more than 5,500 journalists present.
Microsoft has so far confirmed its Gamescom return, but has yet to officially comment on the reports of a press conference.
"We're excited to be back at Gamescom this year but we're not announcing any further details on our plans at this time. Please stay tuned for more details!" a Microsoft spokesperson stated.
Gamescom will take place on August 21 through the 25 in Cologne Germany at the Koelnmesse, less than a month before the Xbox One's November release window. As the largest expo of its kind in the world, Gamescom routinely attracts some of the biggest video game developers and publishers who come to showcase their upcoming games and hardware.