Highlights
- Microsoft has launched an updated Xbox Series S with 1TB memory, available for purchase directly from Microsoft.
- The Xbox Series S is a more affordable digital alternative to the Xbox Series X, focused on gaming at 1080p and 1440p.
- With the release of titles like Starfield, Xbox Game Pass becomes even more lucrative, offering a cheaper way to access these games.
Microsoft launched an updated Xbox Series S console that doubled the system memory from 512GB to 1TB. The new Xbox Series S comes in Carbon Black and arrives ahead of the launch of anticipated titles such as Starfield and Forza Motorsport. At the time of writing, the new Xbox Series S is only available for purchase directly from Microsoft, but other retailers will sell the console at a later date.
At the Xbox Games Showcase in July, Microsoft pulled back the curtain on the new Xbox Series S console. With the same features as the original 512GB version, the updated Xbox Series S promises to be a digital and affordable alternative to the Xbox Series X. However, with the difference in price comes some technical sacrifices, as the Xbox Series S is more focused on gaming at 1080p and 1440p compared to its counterpart’s focus on 4K. But, users can add a subscription to Xbox Game Pass to get the full value of the Xbox Series S as a smaller and cheaper console that offers high graphics in a small form factor.
Starting at $349, the 1TB Xbox Series S is now available for purchase directly through the Microsoft Store. Made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) resin, the 1TB Xbox Series S console has the same Carbon Black matte finish as the current Xbox Series X console. Though the 512GB Xbox Series S is still available for $299, users can choose to double the total system memory for an additional $50. Inside the package, users will get the Xbox Series S console, an Xbox Wireless Controller with two AA batteries, and all necessary cables. However, users who boot up the Xbox Series S for the first time will need to update the Xbox operating system to the latest version to get the most out of the new console. In a recent Xbox firmware update, Microsoft improved system stability across the Xbox ecosystem.
The release of the 1TB Xbox Series S comes just one day after early access for Starfield kicked off. With the general release slated for September 6, Starfield delivers an experience on the same level as Skyrim and may be one of the most talked about Bethesda releases yet. Despite Starfield‘s $69.99 price tag, Xbox and PC gamers can take advantage of Game Pass to try it for a cheaper price.
In addition to Starfield, titles such as Sea of Stars and the Persona series have made the September lineup for Xbox Game Pass one of the most lucrative yet. It remains to be seen how much of an impact the new Xbox Series S console will have in the short term.
Source: Microsoft
