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Xbox Series X: Specs, Release Date, Images, Games, Price, Launch Titles, Controllers & more

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Key Features of the Xbox Series X

Specs

Processor8-core, 3.8-GHz AMD Ryzen Zen 2
GPU12 teraflop AMD RDNA 2
RAM16GB GDDR6
Storage1TB custom NVMe SSD
External StorageUSB 3.2 external HDD support
ResolutionMaximum 8K
Optical drive4K UHD Blu-ray drive
Ray tracingYes
Maximum Framerate120 fps
Release dateHoliday 2020
PriceTBD

Release Date

Microsoft announced the Xbox series X is scheduled to release in the Holiday period of 2020, which I assume will be in November, like previous consoles. According to Microsoft, COVID-19 will not impact the console’s launch, suggesting a very close release date to that of the PS5 (as Sony indicated no shift in their release date).

Images

    Price

    Here’s the thing, Microsoft hasn’t officially disclosed exactly how much the Xbox Series X will cost, however using previous consoles we can kind of estimate how much it will cost.

    When the Xbox One (500GB) launched, it was bundled with one controller and a Kinect Sensor, and this would set you back by $499 (£429). In Microsoft’s part this was a big mistake as the PlayStation 4 launched at $399 around the same time. It was after 6 months that Microsoft decided to remove the Kinect Sensor from the bundle and match the price of the PS4. Since cost is one of the most important factors when choosing a console, most people opted for the PS4.

    If we adjust these prices to todays figures, can estimate that the Xbox Series X will cost somewhere between $399 on the lower end to $599 on the higher end (don’t take my word for it though, I’m just some guy on the internet)

    Launch Titles

    As expected the biggest title launching with the Xbox Series X will be Halo Infinite which is a sequel to previous titles. I understand Halo Infinite to be a “spiritual reboot” of the series, meaning that new players will be able to jump on and not be completely clueless of the events that happened in Halo 1-5.

    Another game in the spotlight is Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Ubisoft’s latest addition to its historical/action series. The game will be set in the Viking Era specifically in 877AD and will overlap both worlds of the Vikings and the Assassins Creed.

    Other games include, but not limited to, the lively racing game Dirt 5, psychological horror game Scorn and much anticipated open world game Cyberpunk 2077.

    Xbox Series X Backward Compatability

    The Xbox series X is confirmed to be backwards compatible for all three previous generations of the console (Xbox One, Xbox 360 & the original Xbox).

    Microsoft claims that ALL Xbox One games will be playable on the Series X on day one, meaning Xbox One games installed on an external hard-drive can be played immediately when plugged into the console.

    Much hasn’t been said on the Xbox 360 and the original Xbox’s games, but it is likely that all games currently playable on the Xbox One will be playable on the Series X.

    With Halo releasing on both the Xbox One and Series X, its worth noting the console will support cross-generation multiplayer as they both support the smart delivery system.

    Controller

    The Series X will launch with a new controller which honestly looks quite similar to the previous Xbox One controller. However, the new controller features a share button for easy capture of screenshots and game clips much like the PlayStation 4’s DualShock 4.

    Other changes include a revised D-pad based on that of the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller, which offers a lightly deeper dish for easier diagonal inputs. It is smaller in size than the previous and also includes a tactile dot pattern on the triggers and bumpers for better grip, said to “accommodate an even wider range of people”.

    Unfortunately, the Series X controller will still use batteries and require you to purchase a rechargeable pack. However, the controller will be Bluetooth Low Energy enabled, allowing pairing with more devices such as PC, Android and IOS, so it’s not a complete rip off.

    Last but not least, the Series X will work with all existing Xbox One accessories, which means your existing Xbox One Controller or Elite Controller can be used on the new console, which is great for Xbox One owners as they wouldn’t have to spend tons on accessories.

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