The New Xbox Series X Refresh: A Disappointing Upgrade?

A New Xbox Series X, But Not What You Expect

The latest news in the gaming world revolves around the leaked information about the new Xbox Series X refresh. Codenamed “Brooklyn,” or “Lin-s-l-y-n” as it’s been spelled (for reasons unknown), this new console promises some significant upgrades but might leave current Series X owners feeling disappointed.

Upgraded Features, Yet Familiar Frustrations

This new Series X digital edition boasts features that should have been standard on the original console. The addition of a USB-C port, something the PS5 already features, seems like an obvious oversight. The inclusion of 2 TB of storage is a welcome improvement given the expensive nature of storage expansion cards, but the lack of a 1 TB option at launch is baffling.

Other advancements include Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, technologies that, while nice to have, should have been included in the original Series X to future-proof the console.

However, the most significant difference is the absence of a disc drive. This all-digital edition effectively makes it a dedicated game pass console, which might leave some gamers frustrated.

Price Point and Value Proposition

What truly raises eyebrows is the expected price tag of $500. This matches the launch price of the original Series X, despite the fact that it’s being released three years later and is essentially an upgraded version with features that should have been standard.

This leaves many current Series X owners feeling like they’re being left behind and that Microsoft is trying to capitalize on their investment. While the refresh might offer value to new console buyers, it feels like a slap in the face to those who purchased the original model.

The New Controller: The Bright Spot?

Moving away from the disappointment, the new controller promises some exciting features. The most notable is the enhanced haptic feedback, which is expected to be significantly stronger than the current controller. The controller also boasts improved cloud functionality, making it easier and faster to access Xbox Game Pass. A “to wake” feature promises instant resume functionality by entering sleep mode when the controller is set down, potentially improving battery life.

The biggest user-requested feature is finally implemented as well, with a rechargeable and swappable battery. This eliminates the need for AA batteries and offers greater control over battery life.

A Missed Opportunity for Microsoft

While the controller features are exciting, the overall impression of the new Series X refresh is underwhelming. The upgrades feel like a missed opportunity. They should have been standard features at launch, and the price point feels unjustified, especially for those who have already invested in the original Series X.

What Does the Future Hold?

It’s still early days, and Microsoft could reconsider the direction they’re taking with this refresh. Perhaps they will consider offering discounts for current Series X owners who are looking to upgrade.

Ultimately, the success of this new console will depend on whether players see enough value in the new features. Microsoft needs to address the concerns of existing Series X owners and offer a more compelling reason for them to upgrade.

A Call for Transparency

This situation highlights the need for greater transparency from console makers regarding future updates and upgrades. If Microsoft was upfront about these planned features, perhaps there would be less resentment among current Series X owners.

This leak has reignited the debate surrounding console refresh cycles and the value proposition of upgrades. It raises the question of whether these incremental changes justify the cost of a new console, especially when the features feel like they should have been present in the original version.

The next few months will be crucial for Microsoft as they try to navigate this delicate situation. They need to address the concerns of loyal fans and ensure that their newest console is a worthy successor to the existing Series X.