In a recent conversation, the CEO of Xbox, Phil Spencer, delved into the topic that has sparked much debate – the Xbox Series S.
In simpler terms, the Xbox Series S is a more budget-friendly version of the Xbox Series X, making it an accessible choice for gamers this generation. It’s priced at $299, significantly lower than both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The Series S can play all current generation games, but instead of focusing on high-end features like 4K resolution, it targets 1080p HD using less expensive components. This allows Microsoft to offer savings to customers who don’t require 4K. While some visual details might be compromised in certain cases, well-designed games can still achieve smooth frame rates of up to 60 or even 120 FPS when designed with the Series S in mind.
The debate about the Xbox Series S is centered around this point: Many games aren’t designed with the Xbox Series S in mind, yet Microsoft requires developers to build their games for it if they want to release on the Xbox Series X. Games like Black Myth Wukong and Baldur’s Gate 3 were either delayed or not released at all on Xbox due to the Xbox Series S’ 12GB RAM limitation. Developers who create games for PS5 first often face difficulties when trying to fit these games onto the Xbox Series S, causing some problems. However, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer isn’t concerned about this issue.
In a recent chat with gaming industry veteran Destin Legarie, Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, talked about the Xbox Series S. He also emphasized that the “equal features clause” will remain in place. This rule means that games should have equal features on both the Xbox Series X and S, although there are exceptions for memory-heavy features like local multiplayer gaming.
When questioned about possibly abandoning the “parity clause,” Spencer explained that the specifications of the Xbox Series S align quite suitably with lower-powered, battery-reliant devices such as the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
Spencer pointed out that instead of focusing on high-end devices like powerful desktop PCs and consoles, developers are now creating games for a wider range of devices, including lower power handhelds like the Nintendo Switch 2 and the Xbox Series S. This approach gives them an advantage because they’ve been targeting the Xbox Series S for some time. In his view, this scalability of game engines allows for smooth performance on expensive, ray-traced graphics cards, as well as battery-powered handheld devices, making the Xbox Series S beneficial to their portfolio.
Spencer emphasizes that it’s crucial for developers to keep in mind a key design consideration, due to the increasing prevalence of battery-powered devices. Legarie inquired about the rumored “Xbox handheld” that Microsoft hinted at earlier, which Microsoft admitted is currently in a prototype phase. Instead of disclosing specifics about Microsoft’s own handheld project, Spencer explained their focus on enhancing Windows for handheld devices developed by OEM partners, such as the Lenovo Legion Go. It’s worth noting that having a collection of games optimized for hardware similar to the Xbox Series S could benefit Microsoft’s developer partners in creating any potential “handheld” Xbox, assuming Microsoft manages to launch one successfully.
What type of differentiator could Xbox have in hardware?
In recent times, Microsoft has been striving to lessen its dependence on the Xbox hardware platform. This shift includes releasing games on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch systems, as well as expanding its Xbox cloud and PC operations. When questioned about the reason to purchase an Xbox console in this scenario, Spencer highlighted his intention of making hardware innovation a defining factor once again among platforms.
Let’s focus on setting our hardware apart from others through innovation. Currently, differentiation in hardware has diminished, often overshadowed by the ‘games as identity’ approach. I admire distinct designs and unique hardware creations from manufacturers. I envision our hardware competing on power and innovation. Therefore, let’s ensure our platform remains innovative with its services, while the hardware work – be it controllers, power, or mobility – also continues to push boundaries.
Initially, it wasn’t a flashy hardware aspect that drew me into the Xbox world, but rather the solid value it offered. The modular design of the Xbox 360 allowed Microsoft to significantly reduce costs compared to the PlayStation 3, making the Xbox a competitive force in the console market for the first time.
With Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft offers both PC and console licenses for each game they sell. Could Microsoft lower the price of their next Xbox against the PlayStation 6 by following a similar model as console hardware being subsidized by software and service sales? If games are available on all platforms, this could lead to more subsidization. This might mean eliminating the multiplayer paywall for Xbox, making it cheaper and possibly more powerful than its competitors. Perhaps the next Xbox console could feature advanced technology like a brain implant simulation for immersive gaming experiences, but Microsoft’s past attempts at hardware innovation haven’t been as successful. We’ll have to wait and see what new ideas come from Microsoft’s research and development department in the future.
Read More
- EigenLayer restaking protocol’s slashing testnet now live
- FIL PREDICTION. FIL cryptocurrency
- Marvel Rivals Season 1 is bringing the Fantastic Four — here’s the Invisible Woman in action
- 3 Spider-Man Villains That Should Appear in the Next PlayStation Game
- POL PREDICTION. POL cryptocurrency
- Whales and retail traders keep Arbitrum from falling — Here’s how
- Grantchester season 9 cast: Meet the characters in ITV drama
- EastEnders airs huge Cindy Beale update in early iPlayer edition
- Infinity Nikki Shooting Star Season Teaser Trailer Released
- Coronation Street’s Colson Smith breaks silence on when he was told about Craig Tinker’s axing
2025-01-28 19:42