Since the launch of the Xbox Series X and Series S a few years ago, the consoles have not set sales records, yet they have achieved a respectable distribution. Microsoft is now introducing new all-digital models of these consoles, which will no longer include optical drives. Consumers can currently place orders for these devices.
Microsoft has expressed its vision for a future where “every screen is an Xbox,” emphasizing the significance of PC gaming on Windows platforms, including gaming laptops and handheld devices, alongside traditional living room consoles. Xbox games are also available for streaming through devices like the Fire TV stick. Despite various gaming options, the Xbox Series X and S remain convenient choices for establishing a Microsoft-focused gaming setup suitable for couch-based gameplay.
The latest refresh of the Xbox consoles, akin to the PS5 Slim update, does not significantly alter the hardware. Both the Series X and Series S maintain similar internal specifications, but they come with minor updates. The Xbox Series X has been redesigned to have an all-digital format, removing the disc drive and featuring a new white casing. This version is priced at $450, offering a $50 reduction compared to its predecessor but without the ability to play physical game discs.
The Xbox Series S, which traditionally has not included a disc drive, sees an increase in storage from 512 GB to 1 TB and a price adjustment to $350. This expansion addresses the necessity for more storage space considering the size of many AAA games, although additional storage can be supplemented through expansion cards.
Additionally, Microsoft has released a limited-edition variant of the original Xbox Series X, equipped with a disc drive and a unique “Galaxy Black” design featuring a space-like pattern. This model offers 2 TB of storage and is priced at $600, coinciding with the availability of the updated consoles in mid-October.
Microsoft has recently updated its subscription services, replacing the Xbox Game Pass for Console tier with Xbox Game Pass Standard. This new tier maintains the existing library of console games and online multiplayer service yet lacks access to new game releases on their launch day. Microsoft indicates that this delay could extend up to 12 months or more, although typical delays are expected to average around a year. Xbox Game Pass Standard is priced at $15 monthly, while the cost for Game Pass Ultimate has increased from $17 to $20 per month.
