We may not concretely know when the next gen arrives (save for perhaps the Wii-U, depending on how you define 'next gen'). What we do know is that developers are hard at work at creating titles for the new consoles, though we may not know what those titles are. Yet. Develop reports on EA president Frank Gibeau and his discussion of the new console cycle and new IP.
"The time to launch an IP is at the front-end of the hardware cycle, and if you look historically the majority of new IPS are introduced within the first 24 months of each cycle of hardware platforms," Gibeau explains.
That's a fascinating factoid that I wasn't aware of, but it makes sense. Launching a new IP for current consoles around now probably isn't as great idea as waiting until the next one. It may also explain the deluge of sequels we are currently suffering: developers are waiting until the next consoles to bring something new to the table.
He continues,
"Right now, we're working on 3 to 5 new IPs for the next gen, and in this cycle we've been directing our innovation into existing franchises."
I look forward to learning what these IP are, as its always nice to have a breath of fresh air. I'll also make sure to actively keep an eye out for how many new IP are showcased at the start of this new gen lifecycle versus the end. Perhaps people aren't crazy when they suspect Watch_Dogs is actually a next-gen title?