10th November 2020.
Now that we know when we will be able to get our hands on the next-generation Xbox.
We already know the Xbox Series X means business.
We have seen what it looks like and specs available, but we were blindsided with the news that supplementing that joyous day, Xbox will also be releasing a smaller, lighter, tighter, and cheaper version in the Xbox Series S.
This all-digital console is designed to deliver everything you would expect from the next generation of gaming: faster loading times, higher frame rates, ultra-low latency, high-quality video streaming, richer and more dynamic graphics, all in the smallest Xbox to date.
If you are the type of person that prides themselves on their Blu-Ray collection or music CDs, this is not the one for you.
The Xbox Series S comes with 512GB SSD as opposed to the 1TB baked into the Xbox Series X.
512GB is enough for most gamers but being a digital-only version, you’d be forgiven for wanting more. The size difference in SSD storage is very easily explained by the price point of the two models.
The Series X has fewer teraflops (four next to the twelve on the Series X) which will essentially equate to its graphical power output maxing at a lower display resolution (1440p), and having the potential to hit 120 frames-per-second.
Being approximately 1/3 the size of the Series X, the Series S will fit nicely into any entertainment unit. It also brings a new and interesting white design that resembles a vintage speaker or even a mini tumble dryer, with its circular vent covering much of its face.
Given the economic and social struggles of 2020, Microsoft has shown enough social awareness and priced the Series S at a very fair £249 (and the Series X at £449).
Fair is an understatement though as £249 is an absolute steal for what is on offer. Microsoft has also taken this moment to highlight the Xbox All Access program, which will deliver everything a gamer needs to jump into the next generation.
With All Access, gamers can choose the console that suits them, a 24-month membership to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (access to over 100 games and online multiplayer with Xbox Live Gold, from as little as £20.99 a month for 2 years – with no upfront cost.
So, the first body blow in this clash of the consoles has been dealt by Xbox. Sony is no doubt is finalising the details for their much-anticipated clap-back on Wednesday 16th September (9 pm GMT) with an online reveal event focusing mainly on the console’s upcoming games and presumably a price and release date.
Whilst these two giants of the tech world stare down at each other leading up to November, there is no doubt that the real winners here are going to be the fans.
Okay Sony, what you got?
