Christmas came early for Xbox fans this year. During The Game Awards on Thursday, Microsoft announced their next-generation system: Xbox Series X. Here’s a quick breakdown of everything we already know.
Formerly known as Project Scarlett
First, we have confirmation of the “Xbox Series X” name. Previously, this console was known only by the codename “Project Scarlett.” Unfortunately, the official name series very similar to the Xbox One X, which may confuse gamers (and parents of gamers) when it releases.
Release date: Holiday 2020
Speaking of the release, Microsoft has confirmed that the system will come out in the 2020 holiday season. Considering that the PlayStation 5 is also launching in that timeframe, it looks like we’re heading towards a next-generation console war to see which system ends up under more Christmas trees.
Halo Infinite
To give itself an edge, Microsoft is launching the new system with the next entry in the Halo franchise. While little is known besides the name (Halo Infinite), Microsoft seems to be gambling that this will be a killer app right out of the gate.
Backwards Compatibility
And Master Chief won’t be alone. Microsoft claims that this system will support “thousands of your favorite games across four generations of gaming” via backwards compatibility. PlayStation 5 will also feature extensive backwards compatibility, meaning that the age of nostalgia will here in 2020.
4x the Power
How powerful will the Series X be? Microsoft says it will be about four times as powerful as the Xbox One X, which itself was more powerful than the original Xbox One. Microsoft should be launching Project xCloud around the same time as Series X. This means you might be able to stream Halo Infinite on your smartphone via xCloud technology.
Blocky Design
Visually, the Series X looks like a big block. Most promotional material shows the system sitting upright like the Monolith in 2001: A Space Odyssey. However, you’ll be able to turn it on its side if you want.
Price
So far, Microsoft has been mum about the price of the console. But considering that the new Elite 2 controllers for the current Xbox One retail for a whopping $179.99, Microsoft’s next generation of gaming may end up quite expensive indeed.
What do you think of the Xbox Series X? Will you be buying it? Sound off in the comments below!
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