New Xbox Console Prices (U.S.)

• Xbox Series S (512GB): $379.99 (previously $299.99)
• Xbox Series S (1TB): $429.99 (previously $349.99)
• Xbox Series X (Digital Edition): $549.99 (previously $449.99)
• Xbox Series X (1TB): $599.99 (previously $499.99)
• Xbox Series X (2TB Galaxy Black Edition): $729.99 (previously $599.99)

Updated Accessory Pricing

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Core): $64.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller (Color): $69.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition: $79.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition: $89.99
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core): $149.99
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full): $199.99
• Xbox Stereo Headset: $64.99
• Xbox Wireless Headset: $119.99

First-Party Game Price Increases

Microsoft will also increase the price of select new first-party titles starting later this year:

• Standard Edition: up to $79.99 (previously $69.99)
• Smaller titles may remain at or below $50

Microsoft’s Statement

“We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development,”

Microsoft stated in its official support update. The company emphasized its continued commitment to value and accessibility across the Xbox ecosystem.

This move follows similar pricing adjustments from competitors. Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 games are expected to launch at up to $80, and Sony has previously increased prices for its PlayStation 5 hardware and software in multiple regions. Microsoft’s changes align with what has become a new norm across the gaming industry.

For more details, visit Microsoft's official pricing update.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch at $449.99, with a Mario Kart World bundle available for $499.99, no surprise upcharges, no stealth hikes, just a reaffirmation of what was already announced. Likewise, first-party software pricing remains unchanged, with Mario Kart World at $79.99 and Donkey Kong Bananza at $69.99 - both available in physical and digital formats.

However, the accessory pricing has quietly crept up, and here’s where we feel a little deflated. The Switch 2 Pro Controller is now $84.99 (up from $79.99), the Joy-Con 2 Pair is $94.99 (up from $89.99), and the Charging Grip has risen to $39.99 (previously $34.99). Even the Camera and Dock saw increases, now priced at $54.99 (was $49.99) and $119.99 (was $109.99), respectively. While Nintendo cites “changes in market conditions” for the hikes, it’s clear that ongoing tariffs and supply chain issues are at play. Understandable, but disappointing for early adopters hoping to go all-in without sticker shock.

Nintendo Switch 2 U.S. Pricing

• Nintendo Switch 2 – $449.99
• Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle – $499.99
• Mario Kart World – $79.99
• Donkey Kong Bananza – $69.99

Accessories

• Switch 2 Pro Controller – $84.99 (was $79.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Pair – $94.99 (was $89.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip – $39.99 (was $34.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Strap – $13.99
• Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set – $24.99
• Switch 2 Camera – $54.99 (was $49.99)
• Switch 2 Dock Set – $119.99 (was $109.99)
• Carrying Case & Screen Protector – $39.99
• All-In-One Carrying Case – $84.99
• AC Adapter – $34.99
• Samsung microSD Express Card (256GB) – $59.99

While the accessory prices are a little tough to swallow, it's nice to have firm details heading into pre-order week. Let’s just hope that availability isn’t the next hurdle when April 24 hits. We'll keep tracking which retailers open their listings and whether any launch-day bundles offer more value than what’s currently on paper.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been announced, and one of the most talked-about features is its use of microSD Express cards for expanded storage. This is a big shift from the original Switch and Switch OLED models, which used standard microSD cards for memory expansion.

What makes microSD Express cards stand out is their significantly faster data reading speeds compared to previous generations of microSD cards. This means that loading games and accessing data should be quicker and more seamless. But there’s a catch: the price.

Currently, microSD Express cards are quite limited on the market, and those that are available come with a hefty price tag. For example, a 256 GB standard microSD card might cost around $20, while a similar capacity microSD Express card can go for upwards of $70. This gap will shrink over time as the technology becomes more common, but for now, it’s something to consider if you’re planning to expand your Switch 2’s storage. Right now, the one I personally recommend, and already purchased, comes from SanDisk and can be snagged for roughly $60 right now on Amazon: SanDisk 256GB microSD Express microSD Card.

Another important point to note is that the Switch 2 will exclusively support these new Express cards, unlike the PS5 and Xbox Series X, which allow users to plug in a cheaper USB drive to store and play older generation games. That means you’ll need to invest in the faster cards even if you just want extra space for original Switch titles.

According to Nintendo’s official press release, the Switch 2 comes with 256 GB of internal storage right out of the box. That’s a substantial increase from the original Switch’s 32 GB, but considering the growing file sizes of modern games, many players will likely still look to expand that space sooner rather than later.

The Switch 2’s use of microSD Express cards is both a blessing and a potential headache. The improved speed is great for gameplay, but the higher cost and lack of alternative storage solutions might make some gamers hesitate. As the market catches up and prices (hopefully) come down, it will be interesting to see how players adapt to this new standard.

The Switch 2 Game-Key Cards function differently from traditional physical game cards:

1. Insert the Game-Key Card: Place the card into your Nintendo Switch 2 system.
2. Download the Game: An internet connection and enough free space are required. Follow the instructions displayed on the HOME Menu to download the game data.
3. Play the Game: After downloading, the game can be launched offline (launching the first-time requires an internet connection), but the game-key card must be inserted every time to verify ownership.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Physical Access to Digital Games: Even though the game is downloaded, the physical card must be present to play, maintaining a tangible element of ownership (if that's your thing).
• No Game Data on the Card: The card itself contains no game files, only a key to download and verify the game.
• Offline Play After Download: Once the game is installed and verified, it can be played offline (the first time the game is booted will require an internet connection), as long as the card is inserted.

We have reached out to Nintendo for further clarification regarding the lending and resale of Game-Key Cards. Specifically, we are looking to understand whether lending the card to a friend would allow them to download and play the game on their own system. Additionally, it remains unclear what happens if the Game-Key Card is lost or broken after the game has been downloaded – would a replacement card grant access, or is the license tied to that specific game-key card?

Traditional digital game codes are single-use (like the ones you can find in-store right now for the original Nintendo Switch) and permanently tied to an account. Are Game-Key Cards essentially physical versions of these codes, and if so, how do they differ in terms of ownership and sharing? Will these be sold at retail for a lower price point than traditional physical media?

Game-Key Cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 are a unique attempt to balance digital convenience with physical ownership. However, the approach brings up questions regarding long-term usability, game sharing, and whether they truly bridge the gap between physical and digital formats. As more games adopt this format, gamers will likely continue to debate whether this is a step forward or just a new twist on digital licensing (or a complete waste of money and e-waste).

Mario Kart World

Mario Kart World is set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5, 2025 and it's shaping up to be the most ambitious entry in the series in generations. Forget the classic circuit structure; this time, Mario and the gang are racing across an interconnected open world.

Imagine this: iconic Mario Kart courses stitched together into one massive world map, where races seamlessly transition from one biome to the next. Whether you’re tearing through Mario Bros. Circuit or navigating Crown City, the freedom to explore between races gives this game some serious staying power, the freedom to explore between races gives this game some serious staying power. Mario Kart x Forza Horizon? Yes, please. Plus, with support for up to 24 racers and new vehicle types (boats & planes! oh my!), it’s basically Mario Kart meets the ultimate road trip.

Donkey Kong Bananza

Next up is Donkey Kong Bananza, swinging onto the Switch 2 in July 2025, Donkey Kong hasn’t had a true 3D platformer since Donkey Kong 64, but this one looks like it’s worth the wait. The game’s setting is a groundbreaking action-adventure where DK smashes through terrain, and faces dynamic environmental challenges.

The mechanics look like a smooth blend of platforming, combat, and DK’s signature ground pounds, it's basically Donkey Kong meets Red Faction! It’s a mix of classic Kong charm with a modern twist, and we can’t wait to barrel blast our way through levels (literally).

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Switch 2 Edition

The original Metroid Prime on Nintendo GameCube remains one of, if not, my favorite games of all time, and I can't believe that after years of silence Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has resurfaced, looking better than ever on the Switch 2. The latest Nintendo Switch 2 footage promises to make the wait worthwhile with enhanced visuals, faster load times, and a more immersive first-person experience.

Samus Aran’s latest adventure takes her to the hostile planet Viewros (weird name), where dark forces are gathering, and it’s up to the player to unravel the planet’s secrets. Expect classic Metroid Prime style exploration, fluid combat, and some of the most atmospheric settings in the series to date.

The Duskbloods

FromSoftware dropped a curveball with The Duskbloods, a dark fantasy multiplayer title exclusive to the Switch Coming in 2026, promising an intense PvPvE gameplay that mixes cooperative exploration with brutal PvP battles. The dark, gothic aesthetic and eerie landscapes give it serious Bloodborne vibes, but with the added tension of constantly watching your back for other players looking to end your run.

The community is already buzzing about the potential for tense multiplayer sessions and lore-rich storytelling, so I would consider this one the wild card on the list.

Kirby Air Riders

Directed by Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders is a spiritual successor to the GameCube cult classic Kirby's Air Ride, but we were only treated to a cinematic trailer shown during the Direct, leaving us eager for more details. While details are scarce, it’s safe to expect online multiplayer, plenty of new power-ups, and a quirky cast of characters – just what we’d hope from a new Kirby racing game.

Simply put, the Switch 2 is off to a strong start with these five upcoming titles, and we can’t wait to see what else Nintendo has in store. Stay tuned to SelectButton for more updates and impressions as we get closer to launch.

What Are Virtual Game Cards?

Virtual Game Cards are digital versions of physical game cartridges. They give you the power to move your digital game library between different Nintendo systems. It’s like swapping cartridges without actually having to swap anything.

Key Features of Virtual Game Cards

1. Smooth Game Transfer Between Consoles: Got more than one Switch? No problem. As long as they’re linked to the same Nintendo Account, you can transfer digital games between them. After the first-time setup with local wireless and internet, all you need after that is an internet connection. Once you’ve loaded a game onto a system, it can be played offline, and other users on that console can dive in too.

2. Family Sharing with Time-Limited Lending: Got a family group on your Nintendo Account? You can lend Virtual Game Cards to other members for up to 14 days. Just connect the systems using local wireless and make sure both are online. After the two-week period, the game returns to your library. The cool part? Any progress they make sticks around if they decide to get the game themselves later.

3. Easy Management Through Your Nintendo Account: You can handle all your Virtual Game Cards straight from your Nintendo Account online, making it super convenient to keep track of your digital library.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Compatibility: Virtual Game Cards work with Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and OLED models from late April 2025. Make sure to update your system.
• Game Support: Not all games are on board. Some demos and Switch Online exclusives might not support Virtual Game Cards.
• Internet Connection: You’ll need internet to swap or load a game, but once it’s on a console, you’re good to play offline.

Why It’s a Big Deal

Virtual Game Cards are a big step forward for Nintendo. They combine the perks of physical and digital games, making it easier to share, move, and manage your collection. It’s a move that shows Nintendo is listening to the community and finding ways to keep digital game ownership flexible. Whether you’re managing a multi-Switch household or just want to share your latest game with the fam, Virtual Game Cards make it simple.

"In order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions, we have decided to postpone US preorder availability," Nintendo stated. Despite this unexpected delay, the console’s release date remains fixed for June 5, with updated preorder timing expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

This unprecedented decision follows closely behind President Trump’s announcement earlier this week introducing extensive new tariffs, sending shockwaves through the tech industry and financial markets. These tariffs threaten to significantly raise the prices of imported goods, impacting everything from electronics to consumer products.

According to Mat Piscatella, a leading analyst at market research firm Circana, Nintendo was likely caught off guard by the severity and scope of the tariffs. "My best guess is Nintendo had some assumptions in place regarding what tariffs might look like, and the announced tariffs came in much higher and broader than anticipated," he explained.

The Switch 2 is already facing criticism for its high $450 price tag, and Piscatella suggested that this price could climb even further if companies like Nintendo need to offset increased production and import costs. “Every responsible business relying on international supply chains will now be reassessing US pricing strategies,” Piscatella noted. "They simply have no choice."

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) previously warned in February that these tariffs could severely harm the gaming industry and negatively affect millions of American consumers. Nintendo’s preorder delay underscores just how disruptive these trade policies could be for the video game market.

"Historically, consumers in other regions have had to pay significantly higher prices for video games due to tariffs and taxes," Piscatella added. "Unfortunately, it appears the US may soon face similar circumstances."

Nintendo fans are advised to stay tuned as the company navigates these unpredictable market changes.

With Microsoft's own Xbox controller, you are required to purchase a Dolby Atmos for Headphones license on the Microsoft Store (a one-time $14.99 add-on for the Dolby Access app) to experience the impressive surround sound technology that adds height and depth to supported games. The PRO Compact is the only wired controller on the market that includes Dolby Atmos without paying for a separate license.

Officially licensed for the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, the PRO Compact retails for $49.99 USD and $79.96 CAN, and is available in both black and white.

The full press release can be read below:

NACON announces the RIG PRO Compact, its first customizable wired controller and app for Xbox available in North America from May 20. The PRO Compact is also the world’s first game controller to include Dolby Atmos® for Headphones.

Dolby Atmos places game audio all around the player with three-dimensional precision, so they can react faster and more accurately. Gamers are immersed in a more intense experience that brings crystal clear, hair-raising realism to every battlefield, so they can catch the subtle, potentially game-changing sounds they’ve been missing.

Exceptional audio, optimized form factor and complete customization give the PRO Compact an impressive combination of features. Gamers can create custom button maps, change trigger sensitivity and control dead zones using the PRO Compact app for Xbox.

“We’re excited to introduce the RIG PRO Compact controller to North America,” said RIG VP of Global Sales & Marketing, Peter Petrides. “Being able to leverage Nacon’s expertise as the #1 third-party controller brand in Europe, means we’re bringing RIG gamers a product that stays true to our brand promise. Which is to develop next generation gear that helps gamers improve their performance.”

“This is the perfect controller for competitive players who prefer, and play better, using a smaller form factor not available in other elite products,” continued Petrides. “The PRO Compact provides unparalleled levels of customization through its dedicated PRO Compact app. This, coupled with the inclusion of Dolby Atmos, makes it an extremely compelling controller for its price.”

“Dolby Atmos heightens your situational awareness and helps you reach competitive excellence,” said Mahesh Balakrishnan, Vice President of Dolby’s Audio Business. “It’s great to work again with RIG to make immersive gaming experiences more accessible to people around the world through the RIG PRO Compact.”

To enjoy Dolby Atmos for Headphones, simply download the Dolby Access app from the Windows Store on Xbox or Windows 10, plug in the controller via USB and connect a headset to experience immersive audio while gaming.

Unlike the entire 500 PRO series, which are all wired, the RIG 700 PRO Series (HX and HS) provides wireless comfort with zero lag in an ultra-light design.

The full press release can be read below:

The RIG 500 PRO Gen 2 takes everything gamers love about the first generation 500 PRO and adds a few upgrades. All models of the 500 PRO Gen 2 feature a comfort-enhanced steel headband that is both highly durable and flexible while also being lightweight. Signature RIG exoskeleton earcup design isolates low distortion 50mm drivers that have been specifically tuned for immersive game audio.

RIG 500 PRO Series has a number of models for use with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and Windows 10. The 500 PRO HC Gen 2 is available now at GameStop, with all other variants available at major retailers on 20 May:

• RIG 500 PRO HX Gen 2: for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One: $69.99 (USD) / $89.96 (CAN)
• RIG 500 PRO HS Gen 2: for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4: $69.99 (USD) / $89.96 (CAN)
• RIG 500 PRO HC Gen 2: for multiplatform console and portable gaming: $69.99 (USD)
• RIG 500 PRO HA Gen 2: for PC gaming and includes longer cables and y-splitter: $79.99 (USD)

Lastly, the RIG 700 PRO Series delivers unreal wireless comfort with zero lag in an ultralightweight design. Weighing no more than 241 grams, it remains one of the lightest wireless headsets available for Xbox and PlayStation gaming. Featuring a self-adjusting head strap along with dual-material ear cushions, the RIG 700 PRO Series provides hours of fatigue-free gaming.

RIG 700 PRO Series has models for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One and also PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. Both models are available exclusively at GameStop today:

• RIG 700 PRO HX: officially licensed for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One: $119.99
• RIG 700 PRO HS: PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4: $119.99

After speaking to the PlayStation phone support the day after launch, it was determined rather quickly that the unit is indeed broken beyond repair and will need to be sent in. The customer representative was very reassuring and understanding and informing him of all the steps that were already taken. It seems that a complete hardware failure has been rare from the calls already received. A few days later, and I received the form fitting return box, however, it was designed for a PlayStation 4 Pro, meaning a PlayStation 5 can not fit inside the box with the included protective foam. Seems they were not prepared for units needing to be replaced this close to launch.

Original Article: 11/12/2020

As excited as everyone else was today, watching the delivery get closer and closee, my heart sank mere minutes after setting up the $400 PlayStation 5 Digital Edition. Moments after logging into my PSN account and updating the system firmware, everything seemed normal until launching a PlayStation 5 game. No matter how many times a game is deleted or re-downloaded (Bugsnax, Marvel's Spider-man: Miles Morales, etc.), not a single PS5 game works, not even the preinstalled Astro's Playroom.

While no error code is shown at the time, going into the dedicated error code portion of the system menu produces CE-10005-6. According to the PlayStation Support website, that specific error code does not exist. In fact, after scouring the internet, I have yet to see another person with the same issue. However, there seems to be many other issues plaguing launch systems, including a similar but different database corruption issue and those tied to external storage devices. Making matters worse, PlayStation support has been swamped with calls. After contacting text support, I was told I needed to call phone support. While waiting on hold for PlayStation 5 support, I was greeted by an automated message that my call will not be answered, and I need to hang up and call another day.

At this time, I want to apologize to every publisher, developer, and PR contact that was promised review coverage, let's play videos, and live streams. Considering the lack of availability, especially for the Digital Edition, it is unknown at this point when I'll be able to receive a replacement.

We have important news to share with you pic.twitter.com/qZUaD6IwmM
— Cyberpunk 2077 (@CyberpunkGame) October 27, 2020
 

This is the best-case scenario for a multiplayer-centric title that has no build-up since the initial reveal trailer. Not only does this move space it away from launch titles, but there should be significant more players when it launches thanks to PlayStation Plus.

Sony has promised a brand-new trailer and additional details on the game next week.

Today, NACON unveiled two Xbox designed controllers, complete with customization options and full support for Xbox One and the upcoming next-generation platform Xbox Series X|S. For those who may not have heard of the brand before, The Revolution series controllers introduce customization and optimizations designed for the competitive edge in gaming. With the Revolution X, you'll be able to create unique profiles, alter the configuration with stick accessories, programmable back triggers, and changing the weight of the controller by adding or removing weights in both handles.

The Pro Compact gives you options for using it in standard game mode or an advanced mode via a dedicated app for consoles and PC. It includes different settings found in professional controllers, including "programmable buttons, stick settings, and trigger sensitivity controls." The Pro Compact will be available in black and white color options.

Unlike the Razer Kishi, which directly plugs into the USB C connector of your device, draining your smartphone's battery, these devices are wireless, using Bluetooth 4.2 and providing "up to 20 hours of gaming thanks to the included rechargeable battery."

MG-X - Compact, easily accommodating all hand sizes, and is designed for portability.

MG-X Pro - Designed to feel like a traditional gaming controller with two handles, sacrificing portability for comfort.

Cake Bash will be priced at $19.99 across all platforms. A Nintendo Switch release for Cake Bash is still in the works, but it will launch sometime before the end of the year.

Read more about Cake Bash below:

In Cake Bash, you fight to be the tastiest cake, it’s a frantic four-player party game where adorable drawn-to-life cakes beat the crumbs out of each other! Pick your favourite cake and battle in a variety of lifelike places with unique goals - cover yourself in sweeties or hurl fruit into a pie, there’s plenty for everyone!

To cool down, try an assortment of minigame treats - roast perfect marshmallows, pipe the finest frosting, or be the last flan standing in Fork Knife.

Guide your cakes through the bakery as they dress to impress the customer in Get Tasty! Buy delicious toppings in a series of games to be the chosen one…

Compete on the same screen, find challengers online or battle well-baked bots. It’s time to get out of the oven and into the fray!

It has been announced that any previous timed exclusivity agreements will be upheld, which is a similar situation some of the earlier acquisitions had to go through with games releasing on non-Xbox platforms.

The full announcement release can be read below:

Today is a special day, as we welcome some of the most accomplished studios in the games industry to Xbox. We are thrilled to announce Microsoft has entered into an agreement to acquire ZeniMax Media, parent company of Bethesda Softworks.

As one of the largest, most critically acclaimed, privately held game developers and publishers in the world, Bethesda is an incredibly talented group of 2,300 people worldwide who make up some of the most accomplished creative studios in our industry across Bethesda Softworks, Bethesda Game Studios, id Software, ZeniMax Online Studios, Arkane, MachineGames, Tango Gameworks, Alpha Dog, and Roundhouse Studios. These are the teams responsible for franchises like The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Wolfenstein, DOOM, Dishonored, Prey, Quake, Starfield and many more.

Bethesda’s games have always had a special place on Xbox and in the hearts of millions of gamers around the world. Our teams have a close and storied history working together, from the amazing first DOOM, and its id Tech engine, innovating games on PCs to Bethesda bringing their first console game to the original Xbox, the groundbreaking The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind. Over the years I’ve had many deep conversations with the creative leaders at Bethesda on the future of gaming and we’ve long shared similar visions for the opportunities for creators and their games to reach more players in more ways.

Just as they took the bold first steps to bring The Elder Scrolls franchise to the original Xbox, Bethesda were early supporters of Xbox Game Pass, bringing their games to new audiences across devices and have been actively investing in new gaming technology like cloud streaming of games. We will be adding Bethesda’s iconic franchises to Xbox Game Pass for console and PC. One of the things that has me most excited is seeing the roadmap with Bethesda’s future games, some announced and many unannounced, to Xbox console and PC including Starfield, the highly anticipated, new space epic currently in development by Bethesda Game Studios.

Like us, Bethesda are passionate believers in building a diverse array of creative experiences, in exploring new game franchises, and in telling stories in bold ways. All of their great work will of course continue and grow and we look forward to empowering them with the resources and support of Microsoft to scale their creative visions to more players in new ways for you.

All of our work, and the foundation of our relationship with you, starts with a commitment to deliver a breadth of amazing games to discover and play on Xbox. Over the last few weeks, we’ve been excited to share more detail on important elements of a plan we’ve been building towards for years. A plan that is the fulfilment of a promise, to you the Xbox player, to deliver the most performant, immersive and compatible next-generation gaming experiences, and the freedom to play blockbuster games with your friends, anytime, anywhere. Today is a landmark step in our journey together and I’m incredibly energized by what this step means for Xbox.

Please join me in welcoming all of our friends at Bethesda to Team Xbox.

Microsoft has dabbled with monthly payment plans in the past, and they will offer both platforms via Xbox All Access. The Xbox Series S costs $24.99 a month for 24 months, while the Xbox Series X costs $34.99 a month for 24 months. Both options include 24 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. As an added value, Microsoft has also announced that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will receive an EA Play membership at no additional cost starting holiday 2020.

You can read more information below:

Bringing the Next Generation of Gaming to Everyone on Day One

We believe that access to the next generation should be available to everyone. And we know that price is an important factor for many of our fans. To complement Xbox Series X and invite more players into the next generation sooner, we built Xbox Series S—an all-digital, next-gen console designed to deliver everything that is core to next-generation gaming – faster load times, higher frame rates, and richer, more dynamic worlds – in our smallest, sleekest Xbox ever. Developing two consoles in parallel from the beginning enables us to deliver the most powerful console ever in Xbox Series X and make next-gen gaming available and affordable to more players on day one with Xbox Series S.

Empowering you with freedom and choice is core to everything we do at Xbox. In addition to the traditional option of purchasing the new generation of Xbox Series X and S at $499 (Estimated Retail Price) and $299 (Estimated Retail Price) respectively, we’re expanding our Xbox All Access program to 12 countries this holiday, with more to come in 2021.

Whether you’re upgrading to the newest consoles or joining the Xbox family for the first time, Xbox All Access is the easiest way to get the best of Xbox. Xbox All Access provides an Xbox Series X, or Series S, along with 24 months of the full Xbox Game Pass Ultimate experience. In total, that means you get access to:

• The next-generation Xbox console of your choice
• Over 100 high-quality games to play on console, including next-gen Optimized games
• Over 100 high-quality games to play on PC
• An EA Play membership to play more than 60 of EA’s biggest and best console and PC games
• And over 100 games to play from the cloud

That’s all with no upfront costs and a low monthly price. Xbox Series S will be available starting from $24.99 a month for 24 months and Xbox Series X will be available starting from $34.99 a month for 24 months.

The Ultimate Gaming Membership Goes Beyond the Console and Keeps Getting Better

With the Xbox Game Pass community now over 10 million players, we know how critical it is that your friends can easily access and play the same games you can. And you’ve pushed us to make Xbox Game Pass the only membership with access to more than 100 games on your console, PC, and mobile.

To provide even more value, we are teaming up with Electronic Arts to provide Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC members with an EA Play membership at no additional cost starting this holiday. This means Ultimate members can enjoy EA Play on Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, and Windows 10 PCs, and Xbox Game Pass for PC members get EA Play on Windows 10. In addition to the 100+ games in the Xbox Game Pass library today, Ultimate and PC members will be able to play more than 60 of EA’s biggest and best console and PC games like FIFA 20, Titanfall 2 and Need for Speed Heat, as well as titles from some of EA’s most popular franchises like Battlefield, Mass Effect, Skate, and The Sims. Some of the best EA Play games will also be available for Ultimate members to play on Android devices from the cloud at no additional cost.

And we’re continuing to add great games and experiences to Xbox Game Pass for PC. Game Pass for PC and the Xbox App will become generally available on September 17.

The Best Place to Play the Biggest Games

When Xbox Series X and Series S launches this November, it will herald a new generation of game experiences. Optimized games for Xbox Series X and Series S coming this year are built to take full advantage of our fastest consoles ever. On day one you will be the first to enjoy next-gen versions of the most anticipated games of the year such as Gears Tactics, Tetris Effect: Connected and Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Watch Dogs: Legion. Ubisoft is known for leveraging new technologies and the power of new hardware to deliver groundbreaking games, and we think you’ll be blown away by the experience you’ll have playing Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Watch Dogs: Legion on Xbox.

Xbox Series S is designed around the same technology that will make these games and so many others look and feel incredible. In speaking to game developers, we identified the areas that are most difficult to scale effectively, including the CPU and I/O, and made it easy to include Xbox Series S for developers who are targeting their experiences for Xbox Series X.

Powered by the Xbox Velocity Architecture, you can expect the same benefits from Xbox Series S such as faster load times and Quick Resume. Xbox Series S also supports all the same next gen features including HDMI 2.1, frame rates up to 120fps, DirectX Raytracing and Variable Rate Shading. It will also support Spatial Sound, including Dolby Atmos, and Dolby Vision via streaming media apps like Disney+, Vudu and Netflix at launch. Plus: Dolby Vision support for gaming will come first to our next-gen Xbox consoles in 2021.

And the new Xbox consoles are also the only next-generation, backward-compatible consoles that allow you to play thousands of games from four generations better than ever before, and empower you to play with friends wherever you want across your console, PC, and mobile device.

The Best Generation of Gaming Yet

Gaming has evolved in the last decade to make it easier, simpler and more affordable for any player to make that first connection with a new world, a new story, or a new friend. With a family of next-gen Xbox consoles, even greater variety and value with Xbox Game Pass, and an expansion to Xbox All Access, we invite everyone to join us for this next generation of gaming.

As the holiday season quickly approaches, it seemed, for a time, that we may have never gotten any next-generation news. Xbox Series S launches on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. Microsoft has yet to tip their hat on whether if this falls day and date with the Xbox Series X.

The all-digital Xbox Series S is 60% smaller than the Series X and supports the same next-generation technology in terms of DirectX ray tracing, variable-rate shading, and variable refresh rate. The resolution is limited to 1440p at up to 120fps but does have 4K upscaling for games. This is similar to the current generation Xbox One S. The included SSD has been cut in half, limiting the console to 512GB.

News Ways to Play and Memorable Modes Return:

• Turn the Tide of Battle in an Instant: Brand-new Skill Battle mode introduces dynamic character-based skills and equippable Item Cards to fit your playstyle, power up your team, and quickly turn the tables in a match!
• Save a World or Two in a Wild New Adventure: Travel through dimensions with the lovable and quirky cast of both returning and new characters in an all-new story adventure across the worlds of Puyo Puyo and Tetris!
• Online and Better Than Ever: Improved Online modes offer competition in game-specific leagues and Free Play for up to four players, online rankings, and more to be announced!
• Many Ways to Play: Tons of modes provide plenty of variety for up to four players including Versus, Fusion, Swap, Party, Big Bang. For competitors and newcomers, get ready for Tournament and Lessons! Details about these exciting modes will be revealed in future announcements, so prepare yourself!
• And More to Come: DLC will be announced at a later date, but get ready for plenty of content beyond launch!