Crytek denies claims of having SDKs for new Xbox

CryEngine: the Unreal Engine 3 for
next-gen consoles?

Earlier this week, Crysis developer Crytek was cited by Videogamer.com as having access to a software development kit (SDK) for the next Xbox. The story claimed that TimeSplitters 4 was in development for the system and that DirectX 11 would be used in development for said game. Videogamer.com asserted that the new Xbox would be revealed at E3 next year.

Today, Crytek addressed the claims, stating that they are not in possession of such hardware. "Relating to the recent rumours," began the statement, "Crytek do not have any next generation hardware from Microsoft, nor do we know when Microsoft may announce future hardware or what that hardware will entail."

Regarding next generation consoles, however, the company said that their CryEngine tech would be set up "as a next generation engine for all consoles," according to their estimations.

This is the second time rumors regarding a new Xbox have been denied. Previously, Develop declared that, based on a "trusted, well-placed source" within Electronic Arts, who they claimed to be in possession of an SDK themselves, a new Xbox would be revealed at this past E3. Though E3 came and went without even a whisper of a new Microsoft platform, the rumor was preemptively denied before E3 by EA vice president of corporate communications Jeff Brown, who said that the story was "a total fabrication -- 100 percent not true."

Details on an announcement may still be sketchy, but development is clearly underway. Back in March, GameSpot uncovered some job listings that pertained to console development. One particular position mentioned that it will play "a key role in the development and verification of the Xbox and future platforms." Moreover, given the age of the Xbox 360 -- six years old this coming November -- it isn't far-fetched to assume that Microsoft is preparing a new console.

The mystery on when this fabled console will be unveiled, however, remains elusive and will likely stay that way for the next year or so.