4K is battlefield for latest generation of Xbox and Playstation
Systems also adopt backwards compatibility and other features to differentiate them from competitors
November 20, 2020
After seven years, the next generation of consoles is finally here. The Xbox Series X and the Playstation 5 released in November, and with a new generation of consoles come many new features.
One feature most gamers are excited about regardless of which console they buy is the 4K resolution coming with the consoles. The 4K experience will allow gamers to see games like they have never seen them before with graphics four times the pixel capability of high definition, leading to enhanced pictures.
Another feature most gamers are excited for is the backwards compatibility with past games on the new consoles. Backwards compatibility was introduced with the Xbox One and Playstation 4, but now gamers can play up to 2,500 games from previous consoles on the Series X and 4,000 games from the Playstation 4 on the Playstation 5.
One of the most common complaints about the two new consoles is that the price for these new consoles is expensive, with both pricing out at $500. Sony and Microsoft have offered a less-expensive alternative for people who don’t have enough money for these two systems with the Xbox Series S and the Playstation 5 Digital Edition.
The Xbox Series S is $300, which is a $200 cut from the Series X while the Playstation 5 Digital Edition is $400 which is a $100 difference from the standard Playstation 5.
The two major differences between these cheaper versions and the more expensive versions are that these cheaper versions don’t have a disc drive and don’t run at 4K. To some people, having no disc drive may suit them as they may only buy games on the online store, but no 4K is the big cut off and a big part of why the systems are cheaper.
Over the previous console generations, some have asked which console is better. With this new generation, both Sony and Microsoft have introduced new independent features to their consoles to differentiate themselves from the competitor.
One of the biggest exclusive features coming with the new Playstation is a built in microphone in the reworked controller. Buyers will now have the option to not spend more money on a new mic.
The Playstation 5 will also build on their virtual reality headset that Sony introduced with the Playstation 4, the Playstation VR headset is compatible with both systems. Xbox has not made a virtual reality headset, and its systems do not support virtual reality games.
A big feature for the new Xbox is that it allows users to have multiple games/apps open at the same time. With this new feature, gamers can now go in between games without having to sit through multiple loading screens and get right back to where they left off.
Another big feature Microsoft has introduced is a new way to pay. The company began a program called Xbox All Access which is like paying a monthly installment plan for a phone or car but instead for the new Xbox.
The Xbox Series X requires a monthly fee of $34.99 and also includes a 24-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The Xbox Series S has a monthly fee of $24.99 and also includes the same benefit.
Whichever system gamers choose, those who are willing to make the investment are now able to get their hands on the new controllers, boot up their new consoles and enter the world of 4K gaming.
