Tag: Xbox Series X

  • Microsoft Layoffs Expected to Affect Xbox Gaming Division Jobs

    Microsoft Layoffs Expected to Affect Xbox Gaming Division Jobs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has announced 305 job cuts, adding to the previous reduction of about 6,000 employees, signaling a shift in focus towards software development over new console creation.
    2. Employee morale is declining due to uncertainty about potential further layoffs, causing anxiety about the company’s long-term strategies.
    3. The Xbox gaming division is facing job losses, particularly after the Activision Blizzard merger, with 1,900 positions cut in early 2024.
    4. Microsoft’s gaming strategy is shifting towards cross-platform publishing, allowing first-party titles on other consoles like the PS5, while competition from SteamOS intensifies.
    5. Plans for a new Xbox console remain uncertain, with a potential release for a successor to the Series X aimed for 2027, but there are ongoing developments with new controllers.


    Microsoft has recently declared 305 job cuts, following a significant reduction of about 6,000 employees back in May. The firm has not disclosed whether these layoffs affect the Xbox gaming division. However, Tom Warren from The Verge is now suggesting that further job losses at Microsoft could have consequences for gamers. This restructuring indicates a shift towards prioritizing software development over creating a new Xbox console.

    Falling Morale Among Employees

    Warren’s article highlights a concerning trend of declining morale among staff. The uncertainty surrounding the potential for additional layoffs is contributing to growing anxiety. Employees are left pondering the company’s long-term strategies and how these may influence their roles. Warren has heard that more unfortunate news could surface as early as the end of June. Unlike previous rounds of job cuts, the Microsoft Gaming sector might face substantial changes.

    Xbox Gaming’s Challenges

    The Xbox gaming division is not immune to layoffs, with most occurring in 2024 after the merger with Activision Blizzard. In January 2024, Phil Spencer announced the elimination of around 1,900 positions from a workforce of about 22,000. This reorganization involved Corporate Vice President of Gaming Mike Ybarra, who had been part of Microsoft since 2009.

    As Xbox re-evaluates its focus, it wouldn’t be shocking to see more job losses. Console sales have declined while Microsoft pivots towards cross-platform publishing. Now, gamers can access first-party titles even on Sony’s PS5. At the same time, with competition from SteamOS, Microsoft aims to enhance gaming on Windows devices. Asus is reportedly gearing up to launch an Xbox-themed handheld PC, similar to the ROG Ally.

    Future of Xbox Console Development

    Jez Corden from Windows Central indicates that Microsoft’s plans for a new Xbox console are currently uncertain. Nevertheless, a successor to the Series X is still in the works, aiming for a possible release in 2027. The company has not completely forsaken hardware, as there are rumors about three new controllers being developed. However, the shifting focus within Microsoft Gaming may shed light on why Tom Warren is predicting more layoffs.

    News about any unfavorable developments within Microsoft Gaming is not expected to be revealed until after the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8th.

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  • Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price

    Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Series X and Series S users face storage challenges, with only Seagate and Western Digital NVMe SSDs approved for expansion.
    2. A new 4TB Seagate NVMe SSD is available, but its price of $429.99 is considered steep by many gamers.
    3. Current-gen games must be launched from Xbox expansion cards, though external USB drives can be used for storage.
    4. Microsoft’s shift towards digital gaming and services like Game Pass leads to increased demand for storage, prompting the release of a 2TB console variant.
    5. The proprietary storage technology used by Microsoft results in higher prices compared to similar drives for the PS5.


    Xbox console sales might be facing challenges, but storage is still a big issue for Series X and Series S users. A new 4TB Seagate NVMe SSD has appeared on Best Buy’s website. Although players can save games on external USB drives, current-gen games can only launch from Xbox storage expansion cards. This ease of use, however, comes with a steep price. Even with a reduced price of $429.99, the latest Seagate option is quite shocking for many.

    Storage Options

    The only approved Xbox storage card options are NVMe SSDs from Seagate and Western Digital. These accessories fit into the expansion slot on Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. After installation, games load almost as quickly as they do from the internal storage. Up until now, the largest SSD that Microsoft accepted was 2TB.

    Digital Gaming Trends

    With Game Pass being a major selling point for Xbox consoles, big titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 can quickly fill up available storage. Microsoft has also shifted towards digital gaming, leading to less reliance on physical media. To meet this demand, the company launched the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition Series X in 2024. However, this still might not be enough for the most dedicated gamers.

    Pricing Concerns

    Those looking at Microsoft’s gaming systems are already spending quite a bit. Due to tariffs, the company increased the prices of its consoles and accessories in early May. The $499.99 MSRP of the 4TB Seagate Xbox storage expansion card only adds to the financial strain.

    The cost of the new Seagate SSD is particularly annoying when you consider that similar drives for the PS5 are much cheaper. Microsoft chose to use proprietary technology for its storage instead of standard NVMe M.2 SSD drives. While the installation is more straightforward, this decision results in higher prices for consumers.

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  • Microsoft Delays New Xbox Console for Competitive Windows Handheld

    Microsoft Delays New Xbox Console for Competitive Windows Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion Go S shows significant performance improvements running SteamOS compared to its previous Windows setup, which is more resource-heavy.
    2. Microsoft is focusing on enhancing Windows-based handheld devices, which may have contributed to delays in releasing a new Xbox console.
    3. Project Kennan, a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft, aims to create an Xbox-themed Windows handheld expected to launch in 2025.
    4. The future of the Xbox handheld remains uncertain, but development on the Xbox Series X successor continues without significant delays.
    5. Alternatives to Windows, like SteamOS, are becoming more appealing due to better performance and battery life, despite Windows maintaining an advantage in compatibility.


    Benchmarks from the Lenovo Legion Go S running SteamOS have revealed significant performance improvements. Previously, this handheld PC operated on Windows, which is known to be more resource-heavy and less efficient. Insider Jez Corden suggests that these issues might have contributed to delays in the release of a new Xbox console. He believes that Microsoft is now concentrating on enhancing the capabilities of current Windows-based handheld devices instead.

    Confusion Over Microsoft’s Future Plans

    Understanding Microsoft’s future gaming plans can be quite tricky. There is a project known as Project Kennan, a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft, aimed at creating an Xbox-themed Windows handheld, which might launch in 2025. Nevertheless, while the company is focusing on cross-platform titles, it has not entirely turned its back on traditional consoles. Another handheld device from Xbox, marketed exclusively by Microsoft, is expected to arrive in 2027. It’s possible that a new powerful console could also launch around the same time.

    The State of Xbox Development

    The delay in the Xbox handheld’s development doesn’t seem to have slowed down the progress for an Xbox Series X successor. However, the future of the Xbox handheld remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Project Kennan is still in active development. Reports indicate that Microsoft plans to use this handheld PC to roll out user interface improvements, aiming to enhance navigation for gamers beyond what Windows currently offers.

    Performance Gaps and Alternatives

    Just tweaking the interface won’t be enough to bridge the performance gap with SteamOS. Valve is also working to ensure that SteamOS becomes a viable choice for more AMD Ryzen-based handheld devices. With improved battery life and frame rates, alternatives to Windows are becoming increasingly appealing. Despite the advancements of SteamOS, Windows machines still hold an advantage in compatibility.

    The delay regarding the Xbox handheld might provide Microsoft with the opportunity to refine its operating system. There are various theories explaining the hesitation to invest in a new console concept. Concerns over tariff implications have previously resulted in price hikes for the Xbox Series X and S. In the current economic situation, launching a new system at an affordable price poses a major challenge.

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  • Doom: Dark Ages PS5 and Xbox Discs Need Huge Downloads

    Doom: Dark Ages PS5 and Xbox Discs Need Huge Downloads

    Key Takeaways

    1. Physical copies of Doom: The Dark Ages have minimal data storage, requiring substantial downloads for console players.
    2. The Xbox version contains only 324 MB, while the PS5 version has just 85 MB on the disc.
    3. Players need a good internet connection to download most of the game, which can be challenging for those with limited bandwidth.
    4. The trend of physical copies requiring online downloads raises concerns about game preservation and the future of physical media.
    5. Xbox users are more accustomed to needing an internet connection for installations compared to PS5 users, affecting gameplay experience.


    Shooter enthusiasts might be facing a disappointing revelation regarding the release date of Doom: The Dark Ages. While physical copies are offered for both Xbox and PS5, the discs contain very little data. Players on consoles will need to download almost all of the game’s content before they can experience the much-anticipated title from Bethesda.

    Disc Content Details

    Those who got their hands on the game early shared that the Xbox version holds just 324 MB of files. In contrast, the PS5 version has even less, with only 85 MB of data stored. As a result, players have to deal with a significant download, which can be a hassle for those with limited internet bandwidth. For digital versions on PS5, Doom: The Dark Ages has a total file size of around 85 GB. Given that Ultra HD Blu-ray discs can hold up to 100 GB, the data should technically fit on the discs. However, Xbox Series X faces a setback, as its Blu-ray discs can only accommodate 50 GB.

    Online Connectivity Concerns

    Xbox users are generally more used to needing an internet connection to access new titles. Many Series X discs require an online connection for installation and activation. Conversely, this is not as common for PS5 games. These often need updates to the latest versions for unlocking multiplayer options. Nonetheless, single-player games like Doom: The Dark Ages may still operate without a constant online connection.

    The Debate on Physical vs. Digital

    Many frustrated gamers lament the trend of new releases that feel like digital downloads in disguise as physical copies. While players can still sell or trade these games since they aren’t linked to online accounts, advocates for game preservation express concerns about the long-term viability of servers.

    PlayStation users tend to point fingers at Microsoft for the growing trend of installations that require internet access. Doom: The Dark Ages adds to a list of first-party Xbox games that have appeared on the competing PS5. Meanwhile, with the introduction of data-less Game-Key Cards by the Switch 2, the future of physical media seems uncertain.

    Full reviews for Doom: The Dark Ages have been posted by Notebookcheck. You can also find a video showcasing laptop performance and gameplay impressions below:

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  • PS4 and PS5 Outpace Xbox by 10 Million Players in 2024

    PS4 and PS5 Outpace Xbox by 10 Million Players in 2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation is expected to have 10 million more users in the U.S. than Xbox by the end of 2024, with a growing player lead since 2022.
    2. Microsoft’s focus on game publishing across platforms is impacting Xbox sales, as former exclusives are now available on PlayStation.
    3. Game Pass has helped retain some Xbox gamers, but its absence on PlayStation limits its reach.
    4. The launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 boosted Game Pass subscriptions but did not maintain Xbox’s player base advantage.
    5. Microsoft faces challenges with declining Xbox console appeal due to price hikes and competition from Sony.


    With Microsoft not putting much attention on hardware, it’s not surprising that the PS5 would have an advantage in the race for console sales. Recent Ampere data gives gamers proof of PlayStation’s lead. By the end of 2024, there will be 10 million more gamers in the U.S. using Sony consoles compared to their Xbox counterparts. As reported by The Game Business, this difference would be even bigger if it weren’t for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launching on Xbox Game Pass.

    PlayStation’s Growing Edge

    Ampere’s data indicates that by the end of 2022, PlayStation had a lead of six million players over Microsoft’s consoles. This gap has been slowly increasing and is expected to grow even more in the coming years. Microsoft is now focusing on publishing games across various platforms, including the PS5. As former Xbox exclusive titles like Forza Horizon 5 make their way to PlayStation, sales for the Series X consoles have taken a hit. Reports suggest that Microsoft is collaborating with Asus on a Windows handheld device, but a new Xbox console might not appear until 2027 or 2028.

    The Impact of Game Pass

    Despite Xbox games being available on the PS5, Game Pass has kept some gamers loyal to the Series X and S. Although PC Game Pass features many of the same games, the subscription service is absent on PlayStation. The influence of Game Pass was noticeable with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in October 2024. The Game Business reports that Black Ops 6 had the highest number of players at launch in the history of the shooter franchise. Moreover, Game Pass experienced the largest single-day growth in subscribers.

    Challenges Ahead for Microsoft

    Sadly for Microsoft, the excitement generated by the Activision game didn’t last long. Xbox consoles have seen a decline in their share of the Black Ops 6 player base. After leading for a time, the player numbers on PlayStation and Xbox consoles are now roughly equal.

    Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has acknowledged that some gamers still prefer traditional purchasing methods. Game Pass alone won’t stop Sony from solidifying its position in the console competition. Additionally, recent price hikes for Xbox consoles have made Microsoft’s hardware less appealing to potential buyers.

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  • Gears of War: Reloaded Physical Release for PS5 and PC Only

    Gears of War: Reloaded Physical Release for PS5 and PC Only

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gears of War: Reloaded is set for release on August 26th, but Xbox consoles may have limited physical options.
    2. There is a possibility of a digital-only version for Xbox, while physical versions are confirmed for PC and PS5.
    3. Xbox owners feel overlooked as Microsoft shifts focus to multi-platform releases and subscription services.
    4. Rising costs for Xbox consoles may deter potential buyers amidst declining sales.
    5. Speculations about future Xbox hardware, including a potential handheld device, raise questions about support for physical media.


    Gaming is heading towards an all-digital future, but some platforms are progressing quicker than others. The release date for Gears of War: Reloaded is set for August 26th across various platforms. A retailer in Spain has listed physical versions for PC and PS5, but the Xbox consoles are left out. Originally, the Gears of War series was exclusive to Xbox, and its developer is still part of Xbox Game Studios. However, it appears that Microsoft console users might have limited purchasing options.

    Possible Xbox Disc Version

    There is still a glimmer of hope for buyers who want an Xbox disc version. GAME España only got word about the physical releases for PC and PS5, but more news might be on the way. Additionally, Gears of War: Reloaded might be digital-only for Xbox consoles, depending on the region. Lastly, the availability of a physical PC version raises questions about these listings. While physical discs for PC games are uncommon, download code boxes are often found in Spain.

    Xbox Owners Feel Overlooked

    As sales of Xbox consoles decline, their owners are feeling increasingly left out. Titles that were once Microsoft exclusives, like Forza Horizon 5 and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, are now playable on the PS5. PlayStation gamers can jump into Gears of War: Reloaded right on launch day without any delays. Microsoft’s focus has shifted towards multi-platform releases and subscription services like Game Pass. Because of this, there’s less incentive to choose an Xbox Series X over other options.

    Rising Costs for Gamers

    After price hikes, gamers still wanting an Xbox console now have to shell out more cash. Nevertheless, Microsoft hasn’t completely given up on future hardware development. Leaked images of the Project Kennan handheld, a joint project between Microsoft and Asus, have surfaced. Speculations suggest another Windows-based portable device or a successor to the Series X could arrive by 2028. Yet, given recent patterns, it’s uncertain if any upcoming Xbox console will even support physical media.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Likely Due to Console and Game Hikes

    Xbox Game Pass Price Increase Likely Due to Console and Game Hikes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony and Microsoft have both raised prices for their consoles and accessories, with Xbox games set to increase to $79.99 by the end of the year.

    2. Xbox Game Pass, despite a recent price increase, still offers substantial value with a wide selection of popular titles.

    3. Speculation suggests that Game Pass may see another price hike in July 2024 to match rising costs in the gaming market.

    4. Community reactions indicate that some gamers are considering stocking up on Game Pass subscriptions before potential price increases.

    5. There is uncertainty regarding the timeline for future price changes, with a major Xbox showcase planned for June 2025, where new titles may influence pricing decisions.


    Whether you are into PC or console gaming, the situation in the video game world keeps getting tougher. Sony, after raising the prices for the PS5 in places like the UK, has been followed by Microsoft, which also bumped up the MSRPs for the Xbox Series S and Series X, along with accessories such as the Xbox Series controller. By the end of this year, some first-party Xbox titles will see a price jump to $79.99, up from the already hefty $69.99.

    Changes in Game Pricing

    When major studios first set the prices for their blockbuster games at $69.99, moving away from the previous norm of $59.99, Xbox Game Pass became a phenomenal deal. This service was not only fairly priced, but it also offered a wide array of fantastic games. However, as many had anticipated, Microsoft raised the Game Pass subscription price last year, making it more costly.

    Game Pass Still a Good Deal

    Despite the upcoming price increase set for July 2024, Xbox Game Pass still represents considerable value. Currently, gamers can grab Game Pass for just:

    With titles like Doom: The Dark Ages, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 included, the value offered by Game Pass is hard to beat. Nevertheless, it is likely that Microsoft will follow suit with a price rise for Game Pass to align with the increased costs of consoles and games.

    Speculations and Community Reactions

    On the ResetEra forums, a well-known insider, shinobi602, humorously responded with “lol” to someone who pointed out that Game Pass has not yet been affected by the recent price increases. If Shinobi is right, it could be wise to stock up on Game Pass subscriptions, as Microsoft permits stacking up to 36 months.

    We still don’t have a clear timeline for when the Game Pass price hike is expected. Microsoft plans to host an Xbox Games Showcase in June 2025, where titles such as Gears of War: E-day and Fable are anticipated to be revealed. So, if Microsoft has some big-name games lined up for Fall 2025, it’s quite possible that a Game Pass price increase will occur around that time.

    That said, this is merely speculation on our part. Microsoft might choose not to raise the prices at all. Therefore, until we receive official updates from the company, it’s best to take this information lightly.

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  • Microsoft Increases Prices for Xbox Series X, Series S, and Games

    Microsoft Increases Prices for Xbox Series X, Series S, and Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox console prices have significantly increased, with the Series S now at $379.99 and the Series X at $599.99.
    2. Additional console variants, including the 1 TB Series S and the Xbox Series X Digital, also saw price hikes, reaching up to $729.99 for the 2 TB Galaxy Black Series X.
    3. International pricing has risen, with the Series S priced at £299.99 in the UK and €349.99 in Europe, while the Series X costs €599.99 or £499.99.
    4. First-party game prices will increase from $69.99 to $79.99, and accessories like the Xbox controller and wireless headset have also been marked up.
    5. These price increases follow a drop in Xbox hardware sales, amidst rising production costs due to tariffs on imports from China.


    Xbox console sales are facing challenges, yet Microsoft is raising prices significantly. A major retailer in France raised the prices of the Xbox Series X and S overnight, hinting at broader price hikes. Specifically, the cost of the Series S (512 GB) has increased from $299.99 to $379.99, while the Series X (1TB) now costs $599.99 instead of $499.99. Gamers should also prepare to spend more on certain first-party games and accessories.

    Additional Price Changes

    Microsoft is advising retailers to update the prices of its other consoles as well. The 1 TB variant of the Xbox Series S now comes with a hefty price tag of $429.99. For those looking at the Xbox Series X Digital, it requires a $549.99 investment. Lastly, the 2 TB Galaxy Black Series X is now the priciest console offered by Microsoft, priced at $729.99.

    International Pricing

    Consumers in other countries will also see increased costs for Xbox consoles. The 512 GB Series S is listed at £299.99 in the UK and €349.99 in Europe. On the other hand, the 1 TB Series X is available for €599.99 or £499.99.

    The price hikes are not limited to consoles alone. Microsoft announced that starting this holiday season, some first-party games will be priced at $79.99 instead of the previous $69.99. The popular standard Xbox controller has now become less appealing, with a new price of $64.99. Likewise, the wireless headset from Microsoft will now have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $119.99.

    Market Context

    This unwelcome update follows a Microsoft Gaming earnings report that indicated a drop in hardware sales. However, the company is seeing gains from cross-platform publishing and the Xbox Game Pass subscription service.

    While Microsoft has not given a reason for these price adjustments, they come on the heels of a similar price increase for the Sony PS5 in regions like Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Like the PlayStation, most of Xbox’s consoles are produced in China, where tariffs on US imports can reach 145%, causing some consumer electronics brands to halt shipments.

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  • Oblivion Remastered Surprise Release: What You Need to Know

    Oblivion Remastered Surprise Release: What You Need to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Todd Howard reflects on the significance of the original game and its impact over the past two decades.
    2. The remastered version of Oblivion features upgraded visuals and a more dynamic combat system.
    3. The remaster includes all original add-ons, such as ‘Knight’s of the Nine’ and ‘Shivering Isles’.
    4. The project was executed with a commitment to do justice to the original game.
    5. Oblivion Remastered is available on multiple platforms including Xbox Series X | S, Steam, PS5, and Xbox Game Pass.


    Here we are, two decades down the line. Todd Howard opens the livestream with a nostalgic look back. Before diving into the details, the team spent some time reflecting on how significant the original game was when it launched. Soon enough, the opening scene from the original game flashes on the screen, followed by a comparison with the remastered version.

    Reliving The Epic Moments

    “It doesn’t matter if you’re revisiting these memories or seeing them for the first time. The Oblivion Remastered world instantly looks and feels amazing. When we chose to remaster Oblivion, we were quite selective about picking the right partner. From the start of this project, we had one main rule: We wouldn’t proceed unless we could do it justice,” shares Tom Mustaine, who is the external projects and studio director.

    All-Inclusive Content

    This remaster includes every add-on from the original game, featuring both ‘Knight’s of the Nine’ and ‘Shivering Isles’, which means that everyone who purchases the game gets access to all of Oblivion’s features.

    There are numerous updates from the original game to the remaster. Virtuos specifically highlights both the upgraded visuals that have been rebuilt from scratch and the enhanced combat system, which is now more dynamic and contemporary compared to the initial release.

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  • PS5 Pro and Games Face VRR Stutters Unlike Xbox Versions

    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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