Xbox Series X: Nextbox gets revealed

Microsoft has pulled the covers off its upcoming 9th generation Xbox console, as well as confirmed some of the specs for the system.

Dubbed the Xbox Series X, it will feature AMD’s new “Zen 2” CPU with “RDNA” graphics, GDDR6 memory, and fast solid state storage. The company is promising that the console will be able to deliver “world class visuals” at 4K and 60 frames per second, along with support for variable refresh rate displays, and the potential for 8K content down the road. It was also confirmed to support hardware level ray tracing. Other features in the works include automatic low latency modes, and variable rate shading. Something which AMD has recently added to their PC GPUs.

Alongside the Series X, Microsoft will also be introducing an updated controller. It now features an improved D-pad based on the Elite controller, as well as a dedicated share button. It will also be compatible with existing Xbox One hardware.

Another important tidbit to come out of the conference was a confirmation that the Series X would continue to maintain backwards compatibility with all Xbox consoles. Microsoft stated that they are investing heavily into “consumer friendly pathways” for players to continue enjoying titles from their older platforms.

As for new content, a few games were teased, including the follow up to Ninja Theory’s ambitious 2017 title “Hellblade”. An impressive trailer was shown off at the Game Awards, which Microsoft claims was rendered entirely in-engine. At least 15 other studios are confirmed to be working on games for the next gen system.

Gamers also got their first look at what the console will look like. It takes the form of a black, rectangular tower, looking a bit like a squared off trash can Mac Pro. The Series X appears to be designed to stand upright, but Microsoft said it can also be laid on its side.

The Xbox Series X is due out for Holiday 2020. Pricing has not been confirmed at the time of writing.