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| USA TODAY
Xbox Series X: Microsoft unveils its next game console
Microsoft has unveiled the Xbox Series X, the next version of its popular Xbox console, which will launch during the 2020 holiday season.
For video game fans, this is the most wonderful time of the year. But if you’re new to medium, or considering buying video games as a gift, that can be confusing, too.
This week, two more video game consoles debut. Microsoft launched the Xbox One Series X and S on Tuesday. And two days later Sony will roll out the PlayStation 5.
And let’s not forget the Nintendo Switch, which launched over three years ago but has been one of the most popular video game consoles available. In September, Nintendo claims to have sold more than 68 million Switch consoles.
So which console should you choose? Let’s break down each of them:
PlayStation 5 review: A powerful video game console with innovative controls
Xbox Series X and Series S review: New game consoles try to lighten the load
Xbox Series X / S
How much does it cost? $ 299.99 for the S series, $ 499.99 for the X series. Microsoft also offers an All Access program where consumers can pay for consoles over a two year period, similar to purchasing a smartphone.
What is the difference between the two consoles? The X series includes a Blu-ray disc player, unlike the S series, which means you have to download all of your games digitally. The X series has a more powerful processor and “true 4K” resolution. It also offers more storage (1TB) than the S series (512GB).
What can I play? Almost all games available on Xbox One, Xbox 360, and even some titles from the original Xbox. Third party games such as “Madden NFL”, “Call of Duty” and “Fortnite” are also available
What are the advantages? If you already have an Xbox, the transition is seamless. The setup is very simple if you are coming from the Xbox One. All Xbox One accessories are compatible, including the controllers. Between Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft’s subscription gaming service, and its support for older titles, there is a wide selection of games available. And these games load much faster, which leaves more time to play. Also, the S series costs as much as an Xbox One or PlayStation 4.
What are the disadvantages? There is no Xbox Series X or S-only video game at this time. There is not enough storage for digital games, especially on the S series.
Playstation 5
How much does it cost? $ 499.99 for the standard PS5, $ 399.99 for the digital edition
What is the difference between the two consoles? The only difference is that the standard PS5 has a Blu-ray disc player, unlike the digital edition. So, like the Xbox Series S, PS5 Digital Edition owners can only download their games digitally.
What can I play? The console comes with the game “Astro’s Playroom” and offers most of the older PS4 games, including “Fortnite”, “Call of Duty” and “Madden NFL”. There are also a handful of games that take advantage of the capabilities of the PS5, including Marvel’s “Spider-Man: Miles Morales” and the “Demon’s Souls” remake.
What are the advantages? It has an amazing rechargeable controller with advanced haptic technology. The interface is better organized. There are more experiences suitable for the PS5, as well as a large selection of older games, all of which load faster. The digital edition also offers more storage (825 GB) than the Xbox Series S.
What are the disadvantages? It’s really big. It also has similar storage limitations as the Xbox.
Nintendo Switch
How much does it cost? $ 299.99 for the standard model, $ 199.99 for the Switch Lite
What is the difference between the two consoles? The standard model connects to your TV and has detachable controllers. An ideal option if you are using it as a family device that several people will play. The Switch Lite uses controllers built into the console, so it’s only available for playing in portable form.
What can I play? Nintendo has a robust line of its own games including “Super Mario”, “The Legend of Zelda” and others. There are titles from other publishers as well, including “Fortnite”, “FIFA” and more. The selection is slightly more limited compared to Xbox or PlayStation.
What are the advantages? It’s very portable, so you can play on a TV or on the go. It contains a collection of games made by Nintendo ranging from “Super Smash Bros.” to “Animal Crossing” which are both fun and family friendly. Consoles are cheaper, and the Switch’s Nintendo Online service is a more affordable option than Xbox Live Gold or PlayStation Plus. The service also offers access to classic Nintendo games from the 80s and 90s.
What are the disadvantages? It won’t have the cutting edge 4K technology of consoles like PlayStation or Xbox. Chatting with friends while playing games is an inconsistent experience. Some games like “Fortnite” directly include voice chat, while others like “Mario Kart” require users to download a separate Nintendo Online app for iOS or Android. Also, the third-party game collection is not as robust as other consoles.
What about PS4 or Xbox One owners?
If you already own a PS4 or Xbox One, there’s no reason to jump in if you’re not ready as there are still few experiences exclusive to new consoles.
If you don’t have a console at home, the PS4 or Xbox One is a more affordable option with a large library of games and plenty of tech advancements like 4K resolution. However, with the introduction of new consoles, developers will eventually stop making new games for the PS4 and Xbox One.
Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @ brettmolina23.
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