At the Game Awards 2019, Microsoft took everyone by surprise when they revealed details about the new-generation Xbox. Previously known for its codename Xbox Project Scarlett, the Xbox Series X (XSX) is set to release in late 2020.
"Next holiday, Xbox Series X will lead us into the future of console gaming," said Xbox head Phil Spencer. "Our fastest, most powerful Xbox will set a new bar for performance, speed, compatibility."
In XSX's debut trailer, Microsoft showcased the power of their incoming gaming product by unveiling Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, a new game being developed for the console. The game is the sequel to Ninja Theory's award-winning Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice.
The 'fastest, most powerful console ever'
According to Spencer, their team is focused on removing the technical barriers in Xbox's previous generations. For their newest console, their developers will create "more expansive, immersive gaming worlds that invite more players to play."
The Key Features of the New Xbox
Here are some of the key features to watch for in the Xbox Series X according to Microsoft:
- World-Class Visuals: It supports 60FPS in 4K with the possibility of up to 120FPS and 8K capability.
- Truly Immersive Gameplay: It supports both vertical and horizontal orientations.
- Custom-Designed Processor: It leverages the latest Zen 2 and next-generation RDNA architecture.
- No More Load Times: It is run by the next-generation SSD and Variable Rate Shading (VRS) technology.
- More Responsive, Less Lag: It is supported by the Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Dynamic Latency Input (DLI) technologies.
- Backward Compatibility: Thousands of games across four generations will be available and all Xbox One gaming accessories will be compatible. Services like the Xbox Game Pass will also be available.
- Cross-Generation Entitlements: All your achievements and game saves will be shared across devices
- Enhanced Games: Microsoft will be upgrading some games for enhanced gameplays: Halo Infinite, Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, Everwild, Forza Motorsport 2020, and more to follow.
While Microsoft's new console has unprecedented state-of-the-art visual and entertainment capabilities, its blocky design comparable to a small gaming PC fueled a wave of reactions on the internet.
According to Kotaku's Senior Editor Luke Plunkett, there's nothing more Microsoft needs to improve since the 360.
SEE ALSO: No More Xbox Exclusives On Nintendo Switch Or PlayStation 4, Says Microsoft
"I...really like that box. And the fact the controller looks identical, because really, Xbox controllers have been pretty much perfect since the 360," he said in his article.
In Xbox's official press release, Spencer explained that the console's industrial design enables them to "deliver four times the processing power of Xbox One X in the most quiet and efficient way."
"It's bold and unique, very much like our fans around the world and the team of collaborators and innovators who built it," he added.
Along with the new console, they also released the new Xbox Wireless Controller, which has a new size and shape, a Share button, and a hybrid d-pad. Microsoft is yet to announce the official release date of the Xbox X Series. The new wireless controller will be compatible with the Xbox One and Windows 10 PCs. It will also be included with every Xbox Series X.
Watch the debut trailer here:
