ManaByte
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Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft’s true next-gen Xbox
Microsoft’s Xbox event showcased the future of Xbox Game Pass
www.theverge.com
If you were heading into Microsoft’s Xbox game showcase yesterday to witness a demonstration of why next-gen gaming and the “world’s most powerful console” matter, you were probably left a little disappointed. Microsoft’s event featured a solid showcase for the future of Xbox and Xbox Game Studios content, but it did little to convince me why I should buy an Xbox Series X. Instead, it made it clear that the Xbox Series X is just one of many ways you can play Xbox games, and that Microsoft’s true next-gen focus is Xbox Game Pass.
Microsoft showcased nine out of 15 of its studios yesterday, with five new Xbox Game Studios titles and four new third-party games. It was a roadmap for the Xbox Series X and its content but, more importantly, a roadmap for what to expect for Game Pass. There was a diverse amount of games on display, even if it wasn’t clear exactly when we’ll get to play most of them. Microsoft made a clear commitment throughout the showcase, though: every single game will arrive on Xbox Game Pass on day one
The Halo Infinite gameplay reveal has left fans unimpressive by the gameplay and visuals, and the overall art direction feels dated. Other fans simply want to see why the open world matters and 343 Industries’ plans for how Halo Infinite will adapt in years to come. But there are still a lot of these questions that remain unanswered just months ahead of launch.
Microsoft’s Xbox games showcase has left the Xbox Series X feeling like another entry point into Xbox Game Pass, rather than a necessary purchase. There are existing consoles that can also access Xbox Game Pass like the Xbox One S that Microsoft will continue to manufacture and sell. There are also the billion Windows 10 PCs out there or the millions of mobile devices that will get access to Xbox Game Pass through xCloud streaming. Xbox Series X is one of the best ways to play Xbox games, but it’s certainly not the only way or the broader focus of Microsoft’s ambitions with gaming.
Microsoft is also expected to launch a second, cheaper next-gen Xbox, possibly as soon as next month. This second console is designed as a more affordable option, with 1080p and 1440p monitors in mind. Microsoft is likely to reveal pricing for both the Xbox Series X and this second console, codenamed “Lockhart,” once it’s ready to officially confirm it exists.
Microsoft’s overall strategy with Xbox and the Xbox Series X is clearly different to what Sony is doing with the PlayStation 5. Sony is taking the more traditional route with a next-gen launch, focused on exclusive games for the PS5. Microsoft is investing in content for the long term to market Xbox Game Pass and to try to reach more people than a traditional next-gen console launch will.