The eagerly awaited Xbox Game Showcase did not merely unveil new games. As a surprising finale, Microsoft announced a new black Xbox Series S model. This console, with its carbon black hue echoing the Series X, will be available starting September 1st. Those interested can pre-order now to ensure delivery this autumn. Here are all the salient details about Microsoft’s new gaming console.
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New Black Xbox Series S Has More Storage
The newly revealed model will boast a 1TB SSD, mirroring the Series X’s offering. It might not seem like a giant leap, but it’s a crucial upgrade. As we know, the original Series S is a purely digital console—it lacks a disc reader. Hence, its 512 GB storage capacity was found wanting given the ever-expanding size of contemporary games. The new black model effectively eliminates this concern.
Aside from the enhanced storage, there are no technical differences compared to the original model. It will continue to serve as the less powerful sibling to the Xbox Series X, sharing the same graphics and processing capabilities.
However, there is a crucial difference to be aware of—the price. The new black Xbox Series S – 1TB SSD model will retail for $350. Bear in mind, this is the official retail price. Should stock shortages occur, it’s reasonable to expect a price hike. Conversely, during discount periods, it could drop to the $300 mark, akin to the original Series S.
The new black Xbox Series S 1TB SSD edition will hit the shelves on September 1st. The release date appears to have been strategically chosen, falling roughly a week before the Starfield launch. Should you pre-order, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy Bethesda’s highly anticipated 2023 release on your brand new Series S.
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Should You Buy the New Xbox Series S?
There are numerous reasons to get the new black Xbox Series S. Foremost among these is the price—while it’s $50 more expensive than the original, it remains significantly more affordable than the Series X’s $500 retail price. You’ll also gain substantial value through the 1TB SSD.
The second reason pertains to the stellar Xbox titles scheduled for release in the latter half of 2023 and the initial months of 2024. While Starfield tops the list, there are numerous other exciting games like Forza Motorsport and Hellblade 2 on the horizon. Indeed, this is an opportune time to invest in the new Xbox model.
The third and perhaps most compelling reason is, unquestionably, Xbox Game Pass. Once you’ve secured a monthly subscription, you can access hundreds of games for free on your new Series S. This serves as a major selling point for Xbox in terms of its extensive game library. As astounding as it may seem, even Starfield will be available for Game Pass subscribers free of charge from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Xbox Series S Run in 4K?
Yes, both Xbox Series S technically supports 4K gaming. However, the efficacy of this feature is a subject of ongoing debate. The Series X, a more potent Xbox model, is explicitly designed for 4K gaming. You can think of the Series S as the scaled-down sibling that still offers a seamless gaming experience for all Xbox exclusive titles.
Can Xbox Series S Go 120 FPS?
Indeed, like its more advanced counterpart, Xbox Series S supports gameplay at 120 FPS. The only aspect limiting this technically capable console is the discretion of the developers. If developers choose to cap their games at 60 FPS for console play, Xbox can’t alter this. However, both models were designed with next-gen capabilities in mind, so they inherently possess the power to support high FPS levels.
What’s Inside the Xbox Series S?
Upon purchasing an Xbox Series S, you’ll find three key items within the box. These are the Series S console itself, the Xbox Wireless Controller, and a high-speed HDMI cable. Depending on where you buy the console, special bundles may include additional games or controllers.
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