Microsoft has officially confirmed that its next-generation console, the Xbox Series X, will launch in November 2020. The company described it as its 'most powerful ever', with processing power twice that of the current Xbox One X. The console will feature backwards compatibility, allowing games from the original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One to be played on the new system.
There are 50 new games planned for launch this year, including Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Gears Tactics, and Watch Dogs: Legion. However, the highly anticipated flagship title Halo Infinite has been delayed until 2021. Microsoft stated that the extra time is needed 'to finish critical work' and ensure the game meets quality expectations.
Chris Lee, studio head for Halo Infinite, cited the coronavirus pandemic as a factor in the delay, saying it was 'not sustainable for the well-being of our team or the overall success of the game to ship it this holiday'. The delay will allow for improvements following criticism of the game's art style and visual fidelity in a recent gameplay reveal.
Microsoft also highlighted its Smart Delivery feature, which lets gamers buy a game once and receive free upgrades for future console versions. The Xbox Series X launch will coincide with the release of Sony's PlayStation 5, expected in the last quarter of 2020.
