Microsoft’s announcement earlier this year at E3 received a mixed gaming community reaction because of their announcement of not just one, but two console variants – Xbox One S and Xbox Scorpio.
What’s the deal with these two? For most of us in the gaming industry, it can be confusing as to why Microsoft announced two consoles at the same time. We already know the size reduction, some improvement, and 4K compatibility of the Xbox One S. However, it doesn’t really provide any actual improvements in graphics and speed over the original Xbox One. The Project Scorpio on the other hand aims to fully change the console experience by adding high-end VR on top of 4K and HDR game support.
So, why would gamers buy Xbox One S instead of just retaining the Xbox One? Harvey Norman’s Xbox One games and new releases are sure to entertain you just the same if you want to play the latest and greatest games out now. Or well, if you want to wait for Project Scorpio holiday of 2017.
While it’s hard to answer why Microsoft opted for this, let’s discover what is known about these consoles:
Affordability. The Xbox One S 500GB variant will retail at $299, prompting it to have a good start. As for the Xbox Scorpio, Microsoft apparently hasn’t nailed down a price range for the upcoming console yet. However, it’s safe to assume that it will retail higher than the Xbox One and Xbox One S.
High Definition Display. Xbox One S will get small updates over the previous Xbox One in terms of its capability to support 4K streaming for 60HZ output – oh and a smaller body. The sad thing is that it won’t be capable of 4K gaming. Project Scorpio, on the other hand will be 4K-ready and complete with VR capability.
Therefore, if you’re a hardcore gamer who wants the latest in high-definition gaming and want to explore the new world of virtual reality, then the Xbox Scorpio is the console you want! This console is virtually a high-end games PC with an Xbox interface and Live features. It’s something Microsoft homes PC gamers won’t mind owning.
Upgradeable Hardware. Microsoft hinted that Xbox Scorpio will have the ability to allow users to upgrade its hardware. This is something that no console has ever done before. What this means is that users may be able to use a device that could last them for a long, long time.
The idea is to remove the need for hardware generations and allow users to decide, much like a PC. However, this has too many loopholes that is worthy of another article.
Should you get it? For the Xbox One S – this console does bring some unique features with it if you care about 4K streaming with the capability to play Blu-ray media. However, it still isn’t mainstream. Also, benefitting from this 4K capability depends on your internet speed.
If you currently own an Xbox One and don’t care about the 4K stream/play capability, then you’re better off waiting for Project Scorpio. Harvey Norman’s Xbox One games are available ordering online for free delivery option straight to your doorstep, so you can play the latest and best games currently available.
Regardless, if you want to spend your money on the Xbox One S just to get a slimmer frame and extra 4K support, then go for it! However, if you want an extraordinary experience, power, and a couple of incredible gaming options, then wait for the Project Scorpio. You decide!