We’ve known for a while now that the next generation of video game consoles (or hyper-capable streaming devices, depending on your perspective) are coming later this year. On Tuesday, however, Microsoft gave us a more specific time frame, announcing that its Xbox Series X console is set to arrive this November. When it launches, the new console will be without key franchise title Halo Infinite, which was officially delayed until 2021.
To make the suddenly Halo-less launch more appealing to early adopters, Microsoft touted its back catalog of titles available to play on the new console, included several that have been optimized to take advantage of the new hardware. And while details on streaming service support haven’t been shared just yet, both the Xbox Series X and rival PlayStation 5 should prove to be more-than-capable streaming devices when they launch. Both also offer 4K Blu-ray drives as well, upping the entertainment quotient further.
Microsoft is also touting its Xbox Game Pass, which has drawn numerous comparisons to Netflix’s business model. The service offers a curated list of games to play for a regular monthly fee, including launch-day access to first-party titles. The Game Pass Ultimate ($14.99/month) tier also includes cloud-based access to games on Android phones and tablets via the company’s Project xCloud.
We’re still awaiting exact launch dates and pricing for these fancy, new consoles, as well as info on which streaming apps will be supported, and we’ll keep you up to date as we hear more.
H/t to Tim for the news tip.
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