Just as this year's Xbox Games Showcase came to a close, Microsoft unveiled the spanking new edition of the Xbox Series S, much to the surprise of many.
With its carbon black facade and a beefed-up 1TB storage, the Xbox designed this new variant to meet the demands of the modern gamer.
Right off the bat, let's address the elephant in the room: the jump from 512GB to a 1TB of storage is a much-needed and warmly welcomed change. With game files growing bulkier, the enhanced storage is set to cater to an ever-growing library of AAA titles and indie gems alike.
Unveiled by Xbox's chief, Phil Spencer, the Xbox Series S 1TB model is aesthetically adorned in a sleek black aesthetic that creates a pleasing parallel with its elder sibling, the Xbox Series X. It bears the same modern matte finish that graces the Xbox Wireless Controller, fortifying its visual synchronicity within the Xbox family. And for those of you who've grown fond of the white exterior of the current Xbox Series S, fret not, the functionality remains unchanged. The new Xbox Series S edition marries aesthetics with increased storage while keeping the hardware underneath identical.
This new variant arrives on the scene as we stand on the brink of the fall release season. To underline its timely debut, the Xbox Series S – 1TB will launch on September 1st, five days before the release of the much-anticipated Starfield. For those yet to dip their toes into the next-gen waters, the new Xbox Series S makes an appealing argument for joining the Xbox family. Sporting a price tag of $349, you're shelling out an additional $50 for a double dose of storage, a bargain, especially considering the expanding gamut of gaming titles.
And if that wasn't enough to whet your appetite, Microsoft has strategically timed this announcement to coincide with the reveal of Western Digital's new storage expansion cards for the Xbox Series X/S. Available in 500GB and 1TB variants, they promise a seamless gaming experience even as your gaming library continues to burgeon.
It's unclear if this carbon black edition will entirely replace the existing Xbox Series S or coexist with it. Microsoft hasn't yet discontinued the current Series S, leaving the door wide open for choice to gamers.
Nevertheless, the introduction of the Xbox Series S – 1TB brings an intriguing proposition to the gaming market. With an elegant carbon black design, double the storage, and a reasonable price point, Microsoft is trying to service a market that it firmly believes exists. But, if you ask some developers, the Xbox Series S is more of a hindrance to gaming performance than a boon.
Whether you're an existing Xbox One user considering an upgrade or a new enthusiast about to embark on your Xbox journey, the Xbox Series S – 1TB certainly deserves a spot on your radar.
Ready to go head-to-head with the fall gaming releases, this console is eager to deliver what every modern gamer craves – an unmitigated, expansive, and vibrant gaming landscape. Let the games begin!
