Tag: Xbox Series X

March 30, 2025
PS5 Pro and Games Face VRR Stutters Unlike Xbox Versions
Key Takeaways
1. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is intended to reduce screen tearing but some PS5 players are experiencing stuttering issues.
2. Locked frame rates (30 or 60 fps) make framerate changes more noticeable, and VRR aims to provide smooth gameplay even at 120Hz.
3. Digital Foundry found that stuttering occurs in some PS5 games after about 20 minutes of play, with spikes reaching 120Hz.
4. The stuttering issue is not linked to specific TVs and affects certain PS5 games like Diablo 4 and Hogwarts Legacy, while others like Immortals of Aveum and Gran Turismo 7 are unaffected.
5. The Xbox Series X shows no VRR problems in similar tests, leading to questions about whether the issue affects only certain PS5 systems or if players are not noticing the changes.
One of the perks of the latest gaming consoles is their use of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). The Xbox Series X, PS5, and PS5 Pro all utilize this feature to reduce screen tearing. Lately, some PlayStation players have started to notice stuttering that VRR is supposed to fix. To investigate the issue, Digital Foundry conducted a study testing various PS5 games and displays.
Locked Frame Rates
When games are locked at 30 or 60 fps, any changes in the framerate can be quite noticeable to players. VRR helps maintain smooth gameplay across a range of framerates, even at settings of 120Hz. Sadly, Digital Foundry found that some PS5 games experienced choppiness after around 20 minutes of play. Their analysis, using a refresh rate monitor, detected spikes reaching up to 120Hz. Once the stuttering started, it occurred roughly every eight seconds.
Gamer Confusion
Players have reported this issue while playing different games on a variety of TVs, leading to more confusion. Digital Foundry concluded that the likely cause is the PlayStation consoles and how they implement VRR. The stuttering doesn’t seem to be tied to specific displays. However, not every PS5 game is impacted. While Diablo 4 and Hogwarts Legacy showed stutters, Immortals of Aveum and Gran Turismo 7 did not.
Xbox Comparison
In tests with the same multi-platform games and setups, the Xbox Series X appears unaffected by the VRR problems. However, some PlayStation users argue that there isn’t a problem at all. This raises the question of whether VRR issues only affect certain PS5 or PS5 Pro systems, or if players are simply unable to notice the sudden changes in refresh rates.
Currently, the only way to fix the stuttering is to turn off VRR or restart the game. Nonetheless, this thorough analysis should help Sony with their troubleshooting efforts.
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Tags: PS5, VRR Issues, Xbox Series X
March 26, 2025
Xbox Exclusives Top PlayStation Store Pre-Orders Thanks to Strategy
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is focusing on cross-platform game publishing as Xbox Series X sales plateau, with more games moving to the PS5.
2. Significant Xbox exclusives are launching on the PS5, contributing to high pre-order rankings on the PlayStation Store.
3. Bethesda’s acquisition by Microsoft is leading to multi-platform releases, such as Doom: The Dark Ages, which will be available on both Xbox and PlayStation.
4. Console exclusivity is declining in importance, highlighted by the competition between Microsoft and PlayStation for pre-order sales.
5. Microsoft is likely to rely on digital subscriptions and game publishing for revenue, as its hardware situation remains challenging until new consoles are released.
As the sales of the Xbox Series X have hit a plateau, Microsoft is shifting its attention towards cross-platform game publishing. With more games that were once exclusive to Xbox now making their way to the PS5, gamers on Sony’s platform are welcoming this change. Pure Xbox has reported that at least three Microsoft titles have made it into the top 12 pre-orders on the PlayStation Store in the U.S. A similar trend is observed in both European and Japanese markets.
Timing and Popularity
It’s worth noting that the timing plays a crucial role in the strong presence of Xbox games on the PlayStation Store. Several significant Xbox exclusives are expected to launch on the PS5 in the upcoming month. On the U.S. PlayStation Store, two versions of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle are currently holding the first and second positions. Forza Horizon 5 is particularly noteworthy, as it’s not linked to Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda. MachineGames’ action-adventure game is set to release on April 17th, while Playground Games’ racer will hit the shelves on April 29th.
Bethesda’s Impact
Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda is also yielding results with Doom: The Dark Ages. This new installment in the beloved shooter series has managed to secure the 12th spot. Unlike other Bethesda titles, this new Doom game will be available simultaneously on both Xbox and PlayStation platforms.
Despite these developments, gamers are still eagerly pre-ordering PlayStation exclusives at a fast pace. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Days Gone Remastered are competing with Microsoft games in the pre-order rankings. However, the significance of console exclusivity seems to be diminishing, at least until Nintendo announces its first-party titles for the Switch 2.
Cross-Platform Dynamics
While Sony is embracing cross-platform gaming, it has not extended this to Microsoft’s consoles. Meanwhile, Microsoft may look to benefit from PlayStation games being ported to PC. There are rumors about a Microsoft-backed Asus handheld device that operates on Windows OS. It is expected that Steam will be compatible with Project Kennan, but some insiders speculate that Sony might try to prevent PlayStation titles from appearing on any Xbox consoles.
Until a new console is launched, the current situation for Xbox hardware remains challenging. The company will likely depend on digital subscriptions and game publishing for the majority of its gaming revenue moving forward.
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Tags: Bethesda, PlayStation Store, Xbox Series X
March 6, 2025
Cities: Skylines 2 Console Release Update and Asset Editor Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Cities: Skylines 2 has not met fan expectations due to poor performance and gameplay issues.
2. Console versions for PS5 and Xbox Series X are delayed until summer 2024, following problems with the PC release.
3. Porting complex games like Cities: Skylines 2 to consoles poses significant challenges, affecting performance and controls.
4. The asset editor for Cities: Skylines 2 is still in development and has been detached from the Unity Engine for better performance.
5. Many players prefer the original Cities: Skylines, which offers a more complete experience and better performance on multiple platforms.
Long after it launched in October 2023, Cities: Skylines 2 has not met the expectations of many fans of the city-building series. Issues like poor performance, lackluster gameplay, and absent features have left numerous players still favoring the original game. Today, Paradox Interactive shared another disappointing update on their official forums. Players on PS5 and Xbox Series X should not anticipate a console version before summer. Additionally, creators are still uncertain about when an asset editor will be available.
Console Release Delays
The initial plan was to see the console version of Cities: Skylines 2 released in October 2024. However, after the PC version faced a rough welcome, Paradox turned its attention toward fixing these problems. Even with some enhancements, the city-building experience continues to be a strain on even high-end gaming PCs. The developers have had difficulties optimizing the game enough for it to run well on the PS5 or Xbox Series X.
Challenges of Porting Games
Bringing complex strategy and simulation games to consoles can be quite tough. These types of games tend to use up a lot of resources, and the controls and interfaces that work well on PCs don’t always translate to consoles. A recent example is Civilization 7, which has had a user interface that fails to satisfy both PC and console gamers. With the slow advancement of Cities: Skylines 2, some players are beginning to doubt that it will ever reach consoles.
Asset Editor Woes
Another letdown for Cities: Skylines 2 involves its long-awaited asset editor. Paradox is currently detaching it from the Unity Engine to ensure better performance of the tool. While mods for Cities: Skylines 2 do exist, unique buildings and objects may face compatibility issues once the official editor is finally ready.
In many regards, the original Cities: Skylines offers a more rounded experience and boasts an equal or even higher player count on Steam compared to its sequel. Moreover, it has several console versions that provide a solid simulation experience. Paradox’s latest update on Cities: Skylines 2 is unlikely to motivate many players to make the switch.
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Tags: Cities: Skylines 2, Paradox Interactive, PS5, Xbox Series X
March 3, 2025
Xbox Series X Unavailable in Europe as Sales Decline
Key Takeaways
1. Xbox Series X availability is declining due to reduced shipments by Microsoft, primarily affecting European markets.
2. Gamers in the UK and Poland face significant challenges in finding the Xbox Series X, with major retailers often out of stock.
3. The Xbox Series X Digital Edition is more accessible, as retailers prioritize disc-less systems in line with Microsoft’s focus on subscription services.
4. Xbox sales are struggling, particularly in Europe, with only 38,581 units sold in 2025 compared to over 328,000 PS5 units.
5. Retailers in South America are also experiencing stock shortages, leading to speculation that Microsoft may be redirecting production towards cloud services.
With Xbox sales on the decline, one would think it should be easy for gamers to find a console available. But, due to less demand, Microsoft seems to have cut back on shipments to numerous European nations. The shortages are mostly affecting the Xbox Series X instead of the Series S. Many gamers are taking to social media to express their frustration in finding the console in stock. While Microsoft hasn’t officially declared the end of the console’s lifecycle, some retailers are beginning to give up on seeing new shipments.
Stock Issues in the UK and Poland
In the UK, finding the Xbox Series X is a real challenge for gamers. Major shops like Argos have it listed, but it often isn’t available for either delivery or pickup in various areas. Similarly, Polish gamers have been facing a tough time since December, which Microsoft attributes to the high demand seen during the holidays. There is a silver lining in Germany, as the Series X is still widely available at MediaMarkt and other outlets.
Digital Edition Availability
At the moment, the Xbox Series X Digital Edition, which doesn’t have a disc drive, is easier to find. Even in the United States, many retailers are prioritizing these disc-less systems and bundles. This strategy aligns with Microsoft’s growing focus on subscription services and streaming platforms such as Xbox Game Pass. The Xbox Series S is widely available, although it does not offer the 4K functionality found in the Series X, PS5, and PS5 Pro.
Sales and Future Prospects
Regardless of whether Microsoft comments on it, the situation of Xbox sales looks quite dire. This is particularly evident in Europe, where recent data from VGChartz indicates only 38,581 units sold in 2025. Conversely, while PS5 sales have also decreased, Sony has still managed to sell over 328,000 consoles. With so many customers opting against the Series X, the extremely low supply is puzzling.
Retailers in South American nations like Brazil and Chile are also reporting a worrying lack of consoles in stock. Some gamers theorize that Microsoft may be focusing its production of Series X hardware primarily for its cloud services. The company maintains an interest in creating a new Xbox console in the future, but fans may have to wait quite a while for that to happen.
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Tags: PS5, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
February 25, 2025
Fable Release Delayed to 2026: Xbox Announcement Update
Key Takeaways
1. The release date for the first-party Xbox title, Fable, has been postponed from 2025 to 2026 due to the need for more development time.
2. Craig Duncan, leader of Xbox Game Studios, believes the extra time will improve the game’s quality, despite potential disappointment among fans.
3. The game is being developed by Playground Games, known for the Forza Horizon series.
4. Gameplay footage has been revealed, featuring a battle scene with a werewolf, and can be viewed in the official Xbox Podcast.
5. Fable is a reboot of the franchise, and there are hints it may also be released on PC, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch 2, in addition to Xbox Series X and S.
First-party Xbox title, Fable, which was initially set to release in 2025, has now been postponed. This update was shared by Craig Duncan, the leader of Xbox Game Studios.
New Release Timeline
During a recent episode of the official Xbox Podcast, Craig Duncan mentioned that, although they had previously stated the game would come out in 2025, it now needs more development time and is pushed to 2026.
Worth the Wait
While Duncan understands that this delay might be disappointing to fans, he emphasizes that the extra time will make the game even better. The new Fable is being crafted by the UK-based studio, Playgrounds, famous for creating the well-loved Forza Horizon racing franchise.
Gameplay Revealed
Along with the delay announcement, Xbox showcased some gameplay footage, which includes an exciting battle scene featuring a werewolf. Viewers can check out the full podcast episode in the video below or jump directly to the Fable segment starting at the 14:13 mark.
The delay of Fable is just one among several games that have seen their release dates shifted. Earlier in January, Ubisoft revealed that its next major title, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which was slated for a February 2025 launch, will now arrive on March 20th. This game was originally scheduled for a November 2024 release.
The new Fable game is a reboot of the franchise, following the launch of Fable 3 back in 2010. There are speculations that this upcoming Fable will not just be limited to the Microsoft Xbox Series X (available on Amazon for $498) and Xbox Series S, but will also make its way to PC, PlayStation 5, and the Nintendo Switch 2.
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Tags: Fable, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X
February 25, 2025
Monster Hunter Wilds PS5 Patch Released Before Launch Date
Key Takeaways
1. The day-one patch for Monster Hunter Wilds on PS5 is approximately 18 GB, impacting players who prefer physical discs to save bandwidth.
2. Early reviews praise the game’s expansive environments and improved combat, but highlight technical issues on both PS5 and Xbox Series X, particularly at 60fps.
3. The specifics of the day-one patch (1.000.020) are unclear, but it may address graphical issues similar to past updates for Monster Hunter: World.
4. A unique patch for PS5 Pro is expected, but early feedback suggests only modest performance improvements and inconsistent framerates.
5. Players who pre-ordered the digital version of the game can download the update now, streamlining their experience for the official launch.
Monster Hunter Wilds players who prefer a physical disc to save on bandwidth got some bad news. A day-one patch for the PS5 version is now available, and it’s about 18 GBs. The Xbox Series X|S might also get a similar update, though there’s no confirmation at this time. While waiting for the patch notes, players are curious how this update might impact the gameplay in Monster Hunter Wilds.
Critics’ Reactions
Although Monster Hunter Wilds is set to launch on February 28, early reviews have dampened some of the excitement. Critics have commended Capcom’s new project for its expansive environments and improved combat mechanics. However, performance reviews have revealed some technical issues on both the PS5 and Xbox Series X. When running at 60fps, the graphics quality takes a hit, particularly with texture clarity and lighting not meeting expectations.
What to Expect from the Patch
With no information on the 1.000.020 patch yet, gamers are pondering what the significant day-one update will change. Back in 2019, Capcom enhanced Monster Hunter: World with a large high-res texture pack, which made the visuals feel more contemporary but required a considerable download. It’s still uncertain which version of Monster Hunter Wilds the reviewers were assessing. Nevertheless, a similar update could potentially resolve issues related to fuzzy graphics.
Possible Updates for PS5 Pro
It’s also anticipated that the PS5 Pro may receive a unique patch prior to the release of Monster Hunter Wilds. Early feedback indicates that the performance improvements are modest, and framerates can be unpredictable. The upscaling quality is lacking, with PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) not effectively smoothing out the gameplay experience.
During the open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds, Capcom mentioned that they were still working on graphical optimizations. This recent patch seems to push any enhancements to the very last moment. While players can expect multiple bug fixes, this doesn’t clarify the reason behind the large download size.
For those who pre-ordered the digital version of Monster Hunter Wilds on PS5, the update is now available for download, allowing them to save time when the game officially launches.
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Tags: Monster Hunter Wilds, PS5, Xbox Series X
February 24, 2025
Monster Hunter Wilds PS5 Xbox Performance Issues Analyzed
Key Takeaways
1. Capcom reassured players that the open beta version of Monster Hunter Wilds does not reflect the final optimizations for the game, releasing on February 28.
2. The open-world design received praise for its vastness and vibrant environments filled with creatures and plants, offering a lively atmosphere.
3. Digital Foundry tested the game in three performance modes: Prioritize Resolution, Balanced, and Prioritize Framerate, with the Framerate mode providing the smoothest experience at 60fps.
4. Graphical issues persist, such as lack of low framerate compensation on PS5 and inconsistent lighting effects, affecting overall visual quality.
5. Despite earlier concerns from the beta, Monster Hunter Wilds has shown significant improvements, although the graphics may still not meet some fans’ high expectations.
The open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds has sparked worries about its performance. Capcom has assured players that the version they tested does not represent the latest optimizations. Now that reviews are out, gamers have a clearer picture of what to expect from the release on February 28. Digital Foundry has shared an in-depth technical assessment of the final versions for PS5 and Xbox. While the game’s intricate environments are impressive, a lack of sharpness often gives them a feel reminiscent of last-gen titles.
Open World Experience
Despite mixed performance feedback, Oliver Mackenzie commended the open-world aspect of Monster Hunter Wilds. The borders of the maps appear boundless, especially when compared to Monster Hunter: World. The environments are alive with a variety of creatures and plants, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, animations live up to expectations, showcasing realistic movements from both hunters and monsters.
Performance Testing
Digital Foundry evaluated Monster Hunter Wilds in three modes: Prioritize Resolution, Balanced, and Prioritize Framerate. Generally, the framerate targets were achieved in each setting. The Framerate mode offered the most fluid experience, including an option for a cap at 60fps. However, blurry textures might tempt players to choose the 30fps or 40fps options in the other modes.
Graphical Concerns
Sadly, Monster Hunter Wilds fails to fully deliver on graphical fidelity. The PS5 appears to lack low framerate compensation (LFC), leading to sporadic choppiness. In contrast, VRR on the Xbox Series X performs better, contributing to smoother visuals. Mackenzie also noted issues with the game’s inconsistent lighting effects. While objects are vibrant in bright sunlight, many maps often seem dim and grainy, with peculiar reflections.
Before players think about canceling their pre-orders, it’s important to mention that Monster Hunter Wilds has improved significantly since the open beta. Still, the vast worlds and intricate monsters may not appear as stunning as some fans had anticipated.
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Tags: Monster Hunter Wilds, PS5, Xbox Series X
February 24, 2025
PlayStation 5 Pro: A Disappointing Release for Sony Fans
Key Takeaways
1. Sony has launched a mid-generation PlayStation 5 Pro model, differing from Microsoft’s dual-launch strategy with Xbox Series S and X.
2. Analyst Mat Piscatella noted that the PlayStation 5 Pro is less popular and selling slower than the PlayStation 4 Pro in the U.S. market.
3. Production issues could arise for Sony if inventory levels exceed sales, potentially leading to lower retail prices and increased storage costs.
4. Despite sales challenges, Sony remains the leader in the current console generation, selling significantly more PS5 units than the combined Xbox Series X and S.
5. The PlayStation 5 Pro is priced at 750€, which is 300€ more than the standard PS5, and it does not include a disc drive, potentially affecting buyer interest.
In a different approach compared to Microsoft, Sony has introduced a more robust mid-generation model of the PlayStation 5. While Xbox opted for a dual-launch strategy with both the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, differing in capabilities, Sony’s recent moves have sparked discussions. Analyst Mat Piscatella shared insights on BlueSky, indicating that the PlayStation 5 Pro is trailing behind the PlayStation 4 Pro in popularity and sales within the U.S. market.
Production Concerns for Sony
If production numbers are not aligning with sales, this could create challenges for Sony. High inventory might push retailers to lower prices or lead to decreased orders, resulting in increased storage expenses for the company. However, this situation is not likely to endanger Sony’s strategic position. Even without precise and current sales data, Sony remains the leader in this console generation, likely having sold twice as many PS5 units compared to the combined sales of the Xbox Series X and S. This dominance could make it tough for Microsoft to maintain its exclusive titles.
Pricing Comparisons
Finding a straightforward comparison between the sales of the PlayStation 5 Pro and its predecessor, the PlayStation 4 Pro, isn’t easy. The PlayStation 4 Pro was priced around 500€ when adjusted for inflation, whereas the PlayStation 5 Pro is currently listed at 750€ on Amazon. Notably, the PlayStation 4 Pro had a price increase of 100€ over the standard PlayStation 4, while the PS5 Pro and PS5 launched with a 300€ price gap. Additionally, the PlayStation 5 Pro lacks a disc drive, which could influence buyer decisions.
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Tags: PlayStation 5 Pro, sales comparison, Xbox Series X
February 20, 2025
Game Developers Excited for Nintendo Switch 2’s Faster SoC and More RAM
Key Takeaways
1. Limited RAM on the first-gen Switch forced developers to compress game files and textures significantly.
2. The low-spec CPU resulted in longer loading screens when optimizing for preloaded textures, or performance drops when handling additional tasks.
3. Developers had to lower target resolutions for games, often aiming for 540p to 720p instead of the typical 1440p or 4K.
4. There’s excitement among developers for the Switch 2, with hopes of better porting capabilities for games from newer consoles.
5. Rumored specifications for the Switch 2 include 12 GB of RAM and improved CPU/GPU performance, which could enhance game development and performance.
The challenges faced when adapting games for the first-gen Switch hardware stemmed largely from its limited capabilities across the board. Developers noted that the RAM was only half of what more robust competitors had, forcing them to compress game files and textures “to the limit” in order to conserve memory. Similarly, the low-spec CPU meant developers had a choice: they could either spend considerable time optimizing their games to preload textures and environments, which led to longer loading screens, or they could let the already-busy CPU handle additional background tasks, which caused a drop in performance.
Developer Insights
“We had to squeeze textures as much as we could to save on memory, but the downside was that for every memory bit we freed, the game looked better. It was kinda like solving a puzzle, and honestly, it was fun,” shared one developer who spoke to Automaton.
Resolution Challenges
The Switch’s somewhat underwhelming GPU meant that developers had to significantly lower their target resolutions—from 1440p and 4K, typical for the latest consoles, to about 540p to 720p for Switch adaptations. Often, the resolution aimed for in these ports was only 25% of the Switch’s own native 720p display.
Looking Forward
When asked about their hopes for the Switch 2, developers expressed enthusiasm about being able to port more games, particularly those made for newer consoles like the Xbox Series X (priced at $499.99 on Amazon) and PlayStation 5 (also $499.99 on Amazon). Although Nintendo has not yet disclosed precise details about the Switch 2’s specifications, rumors suggest that the new console may come with around 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and an 8 nm SoC, which would greatly enhance both CPU and GPU performance. This advancement could facilitate the development and operation of both native Switch games and game ports.
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Tags: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X
February 14, 2025
Microsoft Advances New Xbox Console Amid Cross-Platform Plans
Key Takeaways
1. Xbox Series X sales have dropped, prompting questions about the future of a new console.
2. Overall console sales in the gaming industry have decreased, with Microsoft focusing on Game Pass and multi-platform games.
3. Microsoft remains committed to developing new hardware, aiming to introduce unique features for a future Xbox console.
4. Speculation exists about a possible Xbox handheld or hybrid console similar to the Nintendo Switch.
5. Microsoft’s shift away from Xbox exclusives has surprised some industry insiders, indicating potential changes in strategy.
Microsoft’s decision to bring its games to various platforms has raised questions about the future of a new Xbox console. It’s not a shock that the Xbox Series X has seen a drop in sales. Nonetheless, Jez Corden from Windows Central recently stated that Microsoft is dedicated to launching new hardware. Although it may be years before we see this new console, the company is moving beyond the early development phase.
Console Market Challenges
The Xbox consoles aren’t the only ones facing difficulty in attracting new buyers. Overall, console sales in the gaming industry have decreased over the past year, even if Sony is not feeling the pinch as much. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch is experiencing a slump in sales, but rumors about a Switch 2 are surfacing. In contrast, PC gaming is steadily gaining ground with a vast array of game titles available. As support for current consoles weakens, Microsoft is focusing more on Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and games that work on multiple platforms.
Microsoft’s Commitment to New Hardware
Despite leaning on other platforms for income, Microsoft isn’t giving up on developing a new console. Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, mentioned that today’s gaming consoles lack a distinct identity. He believes that the existing hardware misses the unique features that could make gaming on a specific system more enticing. While not revealing too much, he hinted that the upcoming Xbox console could introduce innovations that would change the gaming experience in surprising ways.
Future Possibilities
It’s also uncertain whether Jez Corden’s comments were about the anticipated Xbox handheld. Given the rise of mobile and cloud gaming, a hybrid console like the Nintendo Switch could fulfill various functions. It’s likely that a comparable Xbox console would also do well in a docked format, similar to the Switch or the Steam Deck.
Some industry insiders have been taken aback by Microsoft’s swift move away from Xbox exclusives. If the development of a new Xbox console is indeed underway, the company might swiftly alter its approach once more.
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Tags: Game Pass, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X