If you thought the Nintendo Switch 2 was the most exciting hardware expected in 2025, then think again Russia is reportedly looking to release its own consoleTech15:11, 02 Jan 2025Russia is reportedly building a video game console (or two)While we're all itching for the latest news on the Nintendo Switch 2, Russian gamers could soon have their own console.According to reports, the country is looking to rival the most anticipated upcoming gaming releases with its own system after major companies in the video game industry withdrew from the region following the invasion of Ukraine.Two consoles are reportedly in development, but it doesn't sound like PS5, Xbox, or Switch owners need to feel a tinge of jealousy just yet.According to a report from TechSpot, one system will use an Elbrus processor developed in Russia, while the other will stream games from the internet via a stick you plug into your TV.Putin is seemingly looking to help grow Russia's own development sceneAnton Gorelkin, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy for Russia, took to Telegram to set expectations."Elbrus processors are not yet at the stage of development to ensure equal competition with the PS5 and Xbox, which means that the solution must be non-standard," he explained."The Russian console is not being created in order to port a hundred old games there and report on the implementation of the President's order.It'll be tough to get going from a standing start in the console space"This platform should primarily serve the goals of promoting and popularizing domestic video game products, expanding their audience beyond PC and mobile gaming."Given Russia's chequered history with gaming with the Famicom back in the nineties with the Dendy, and Gorelkin's comments about not being able to compete with Sony or Microsoft machines, we're not about to trade in our consoles just yet, although it appears the focus is on promoting videogame development within Russia, as opposed to moving titles across.Article continues belowFor more on video game consoles, be sure to check out why your next system should be a Steam Deck OLED.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.RECOMMENDED