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The Xbox Series X represented an opportunity for Microsoft to start over with a new generation of console gaming.
The console continues to lag behind the PS5 in exclusives, with Sony having secured many more AAA titles.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
That includes major titles likeDiablo 4and the latestCall of Duty, thanks to Microsofts acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
For console-only gamers, though, theres much to like about the Series X.
It almost resembles a desktop PC tower but with a more compact build.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
A non-removable base at the bottom indicates that the vertical orientation is the default.
However, if you prefer to lay it horizontally, Microsoft has also put tiny feet on one side.
Microsoft has gone ultra-minimal with this design: its the most simplistic, box-like Xbox.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
A single USB port andBluetoothconnectivity button are on the bottom right.
There’s one more large port: the storage expansion slot.
The downside is that a 1TB card costs $150, while a 2TB card costs $220.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
Otherwise, youre able to use a pair of AA batteries.
It seems strange for a modern $60-$65 controller to use disposable batteries by default.
In theory, the system supports8K-resolutiondisplays, but we have yet to see that feature come to fruition.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
Post-launch titles likeHalo: Infinite,Elden Ring, andForza Horizon 5fit a similar pattern.
Quick Resume uses SSD power to maintain your current game state across multiple titles.
it’s possible for you to pop betweenForza Horizon 4andCall of Dutywithin 10 seconds and return to the game.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
For example,Assassins Creed Valhallais still plagued by Quick Resume issues even years after release.
It makes for a smoother, more responsive, and more engaging experience.
Thankfully, it’s faster than Microsoft’s interface was in the past.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
Regarding games, there are two ways to look at the current situation.
And as mentioned, many of those games run better on the new hardware.
On the other hand, the Series X has an exclusivity problem.
Lifewire / Andrew Hayward
Today, the Series X offers nothing you’re able to’t also play on PC.
In short, theres a lot to play but nothing that requires the Xbox Series X hardware.
And from what Ive played, the visual enhancementswhile appreciatedare very modest overall.
Ultimate also gets you the usualXbox Live Goldsubscription, which offers free games and enables online multiplayer.
It is the most powerful home console today, surpassing the new PlayStation 5.
It also has an array of unique, user-friendly features.
Its a solid investment if you have a 4K HDR TV and youre still running a non-4K console.
Both consoles pack serious graphical power and SSD-powered speed for $499.
Plus, it has a more significant focus on backward compatibility.
The Quick Resume feature is also a great benefit, even if it doesnt work well in some games.
Some of these are now available on PC but Sony still has many genuine exclusives.. ## Final Verdict
Impressive performance without a lot of exclusives.
