Where to Preorder Microsoft’s Galaxy Black Xbox Series X

Microsoft Unveils Galaxy Black Special-Edition Xbox Series X

Before Sony made waves with its announcement of the PlayStation 5 Pro, Microsoft took a bold step by introducing the Galaxy Black special-edition Xbox Series X. Set to release on October 15th, this premium console is priced at $599.99 and is currently available for pre-order at Best Buy and the Microsoft store. But what exactly does this console offer to gamers?

Key Features of the Galaxy Black Xbox Series X

The Galaxy Black Xbox Series X stands out primarily for three unique upgrades:

• Enhanced Storage: With 2TB of built-in storage, gamers will enjoy double the capacity compared to the standard Xbox Series X, which emphasizes the importance of storage for downloading and storing games. Moreover, the storage can be expanded with proprietary storage add-ons.
• Sleek Aesthetic: The bold black paint job, reminiscent of a star-studded galaxy, will appeal to those looking for a cool design. The console also features green accents on the bottom, echoing themes from previous limited-edition consoles, particularly the Halo-themed Xbox Series X.
• Unique Controller: Along with the console, buyers will receive a special controller that has matching design elements, including speckled patterns on the D-pad and a green splash at the bottom.

Performance and Compatibility

Despite the cosmetic changes, the Galaxy Black Xbox Series X hosts the same hardware specifications as the standard model. It supports 4K resolution and delivers up to 120fps in games. However, it is important to note that many games are currently locked at 4K/60fps or lower.

Blu-ray Drive Functionality

Unlike its counterpart, the compact Series S, the Galaxy Black Xbox Series X is equipped with a Blu-ray drive, allowing users to enjoy physical copies of games, a feature that is increasingly valued by gamers even in this digital era.

Comparisons with Other Consoles

The launch of the Galaxy Black Xbox Series X comes in the wake of the amid-generation upgrades, such as Sony's PS5 Pro, which is marked by a significant hardware refresh, including a new GPU. Notably, while the previous Xbox One console saw its own mid-cycle updates with the Xbox One X, the current standings indicate that the PS5 Pro may be the sole high-spec enhancement of this generation.

Microsoft’s Strategic Shift

Documents tied to the FTC vs. Microsoft case highlighted a radically different vision for an upgraded Xbox Series X, which included a cylindrical design and a new controller featuring lift-to-wake technology. However, these plans appear to have changed as Microsoft adapts its strategy amid challenges like studio closures and layoffs.

Conclusion

While the Galaxy Black Xbox Series X may not reinvent the wheel in terms of hardware, its aesthetic appeal and enhanced storage capacity certainly make it an attractive option for enthusiasts willing to spend a little more. As pre-orders continue, gamers are left to decide if the upgrades are worth the investment.