Microsoft starts pre-sales for Series X and S

Microsoft is launching three new Xbox models: a digital version of the Series X, a white Series S with more storage and a limited Galaxy Black Edition. Pre-orders have begun, but is it really worth buying for gamers? Microsoft Microsoft has given the go-ahead for pre-orders of its new Xbox consoles. Three new variants of the popular game consoles will be delivered from October 15, 2024.

Xbox Series X Digital Edition: Goodbye drive

The most interesting new feature is probably the Xbox Series X Digital Edition. It comes in a white case and does not have a Blu-ray drive. Technically it is identical to the regular Series X and offers a 1 TB SSD. Now the Xbox Series X is also getting a Digital Edition without a drive.

The price is 499.99 euros – and this is exactly where it becomes problematic. The standard version with a drive is often available in the open market for under 500 euros. So if you are not necessarily into the white design, the normal Series X is currently cheaper.

More storage, more costs: Galaxy Black Special Edition

For collectors and enthusiasts, Microsoft is launching a limited Galaxy Black Special Edition of the Xbox Series X. It features a “new” design with silver, gray and green color accents that are intended to be reminiscent of a starry sky.

The Xbox Series X in the new Galaxy Black Special Edition
A special feature is the integrated 2 TB SSD, which offers twice as much storage space as the standard model. The price of 649.99 euros is, however, a proud one – 100 euros more than the RRP of the regular version. The Galaxy Black Edition is available exclusively in the Microsoft Store and is only produced in limited quantities. In addition to the special housing design, the included controller also has a matching Galaxy Black color scheme.

Xbox Series S: White with more storage

The more compact Xbox Series S is also getting an upgrade. In addition to the black 1 TB version that is already available, there is now also a white version with the same storage capacity. It is offered for 349.99 euros. The white color variant of the Xbox Series S now also has 1 TB of storage. For comparison: The black 1 TB version is currently available for around 315 euros. The standard Series S with 512 GB will remain in the range and could even break the 200 euro mark for the Christmas season.

Behind the scenes: Reduced Xbox involvement?

It’s notable that Microsoft doesn’t mention any such changes, unlike Sony, which has already made several hardware revisions to the PlayStation 5 to improve thermal performance and power consumption. Rumors have suggested that Microsoft originally had plans for a more comprehensive redesign of the Xbox Series X. A smaller, cylindrical variant was leaked in roadmaps, but was apparently scrapped. In general, Microsoft’s commitment to the Xbox platform seems to have waned somewhat recently.

Nevertheless, Microsoft continues to emphasize its vision of making more games available to more gamers on more devices. Xbox Game Pass is a central part of that strategy, with upcoming titles such as Age of Mythology: Retold, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred set to be included in the subscription from day one.

Conclusion: Is it worth buying?

The new Xbox models undoubtedly offer some interesting options for gamers. The Digital Edition could be attractive for download-only gamers once the price drops in the open market. The Galaxy Black Edition is a real collector’s item, but it comes with a hefty price tag. The white Series S with 1 TB should appeal especially to fans of the simple design.

Bargain hunters might want to take a look at the older models, which could now be cheaper. If you already own an Xbox Series X or S, you will hardly find any compelling reasons to upgrade in the new versions – unless you like the special design or urgently need more internal storage space. What do you think of Microsoft’s new Xbox models? Do you see a reason to upgrade or will you stick with your current console? Share your thoughts in the comments.