XBOX SERIES X SPECS & PHIL SPENCER DICE INTERVIEW RECAP

XBOX SERIES X SPECS

     The next generation Xbox, the Series X, is truly a console to behold. Featuring 12 teraflops of graphics processing unit (GPU), variable rate shading (VRS), and DirectX Raytracing, this console is a beast. Along with improvements to immersion, storage, and outputs, this system is a large leap forward from the Xbox One X, which itself is an impressive console. One incredibly important feature for the Series X is four generations of Backwards Compatibility, meaning that games from the Original Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Series X will all play seamlessly on this hardware, enabling players to bring their library with them, and revisit cherished classics. Another key feature is Smart Delivery, which gives players access to the best possible version of the games they play, (assuming it is approved from the developer studio), no matter where they originally purchased the game. For example, CD Red announced that customers who purchase Cyberpunk for Xbox One will receive a free upgraded version for the Series X when it launches. This is a massive deal, as it allows players access to the best available version, without having to repurchase a game just a few months later. With 4 generations of Backwards Compatibility support, Smart Delivery, Gamepass libraries carrying forward, xCloud connectivity, and massive improvements to power and speed, the Series X will be a marvel of gaming.

 PHIL SPENCER DICE INTERVIEW RECAP

• In a Game Maker’s Notebook interview at DICE 2020, Phil Spencer had a relaxed discussion with Ted Price of Insomniac. They began with a discussion of Phil’s early gaming influences, with Dungeons & Dragons making a big impact.
• Phil went on to say that he particularly enjoys games that have a developing skill loop, and evolving worlds.
• The idea for the Adaptive Controller came about at an event hosted by Microsoft where people from all over the company, regardless of department, have a meeting of the minds for a week. Its code name was Zephyrus.
• From Xbox’s perspective, its best when there are various business models in existence for monetization. Phil gave Alan Wake, originally being proposed as an episodic game as an example. They decided to ship it all as one $60 game instead of individual episodes, in large part due to pressure to adhere to traditional market practice. Phil says that they have learned from that mistake.
• Phil believes that transparency is key for Xbox, and the gaming industry as a whole.
• Phil stated that creating an environment of positivity and encouraging diversity is something important for Xbox and the gaming industry.
• From Phil’s perspective, there should be collaboration whenever possible, but healthy competition is good and drives success, as well.
• The new studios have made positive cultural changes to the Xbox brand.
• Xbox Game Studios have both individual cultures, and a shared Xbox culture.
• Xbox Game Studios have been sharing information and bouncing ideas off each other, (mentions The Initiative talking with both The Coalition and Ninja Theory.)
• Xbox is committed to further investing into their First Party content, as gamers crave both new hardware and quality content.  
• Cloud technology is important going forward, but the current focus is on games available today, and making them suited for the cloud. Will wait for later to focus on making cloud fully optimized.
• Cloud gaming will not be replacing traditional consoles anytime soon. Phil believes he will still be using a console for a decade plus.