Tag: Xbox Series X

May 9, 2025
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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Tags: Doom: The Dark Ages, PS5, Xbox Series X
May 9, 2025
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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Tags: Game Pass, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X
May 7, 2025
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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Tags: Gears of War: Reloaded, Project Kennan, Xbox Series X
May 2, 2025
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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Tags: PS5 Price Increase, Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Series X
May 1, 2025
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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Tags: Microsoft price increase, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
April 22, 2025
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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Tags: Oblivion Remastered, PS5, 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