Innovation in gaming: Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 successfully launch
Gamers rejoice: The dark autumn days of COVID-19 got a little brighter with the launch of the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 (PS5) on Nov. 10, and Nov. 12, respectively. Players were able to purchase the long awaited gaming systems through online pre-orders months in advance.
Unfortunately, the launches didn’t go unscaved for the PS5, with pre-orders causing technological issues for many buyers. Xbox had similar issues on launch day, with a massive Xbox Live outage preventing users from playing games. In addition, both companies had a very limited stock of the consoles, making it a competitive process to even get one in the cart.
These challenges didn’t stop the two companies from being met with massive success and selling out their consoles. A post on Xbox’s Twitter reported that “in 24 hrs more new consoles sold, in more counties, than ever before,” making the Xbox Series X launch day the largest launch day in the history of Xbox.
The consoles share many features that are major updates from the previous version of their systems. Both have improved loading times due to an improved storage system and frame rates of 120 per second, which allows for seamlessly smooth gameplay. In terms of graphics, the consoles can work well with 4k TVs, although a 4k TV is not required for the console to work. The introduction of ray tracing allows for life-like portrayal of light, shadow, and reflection in games graphics.
The Xbox Series X offers more storage space than the PS5, including an optional storage expansion plug-in card that can be bought to double its storage. Additionally, the Xbox controller is significantly improved, with gripped material on the bumper and trigger controls, and a D-pad with a larger range of motion.
The PS5’s new controller and immersive sound system might make up for other short-comings. The PS5 controller has a built-in mic; it also uses haptic feedback to produce controller vibrations, and adaptive triggers to provide varying resistance levels in the joysticks when performing certain in game movements, leading to a more immersive gaming experience. Both controllers utilize a wireless Bluetooth connection, and USB-C technology for faster charging.
Games are available in limited quantities right now partially because of COVID-19 induced delays, but more are expected to come out in the future. For the Xbox Series X, “Halo Infinite” and “Cyberpunk 2077” are just two of the highly anticipated titles coming out next year.
The console can play games from past Xbox consoles and many recent games are compatible on the console. Some games like “Halo: Combat Evolved” were even specifically remastered for it. The PS5 website reports more than 4000 titles from past PS consoles are playable, and exclusive titles like “Marvel’s Spider-Man Miles Morales” and “Demon’s Souls” have already been released and are receiving positive feedback.
Both companies offer bundles that are priced at $499.99. These include the console and a controller along with other necessary pieces of equipment. Xbox Series X offers a different bundle in addition to their basic bundle; this bundle comes with 24 months of the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and is paid in monthly increments of $34.99.
In times like these, gaming can be a calming getaway for people looking to de-stress. In fact, many new audiences are turning to gaming and experimenting with these new consoles. Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, stated in a video posted on Xbox’s Twitter that “this next generation of gaming is coming at a time when the ability to play is more important than ever.”
Not only are these consoles introducing groundbreaking technological advancements that have raised the gaming world’s standards, but they are also providing a source of connection and peace for people around the globe.