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- Many developers are unhappy with the Xbox Series S’ limitations, and the difficulties in optimizing for it.
- Microsoft needs to offer more support and resources to help developers improve gaming performance on the Series S.
- The company should also be more transparent about its plans for the console.
The Xbox Series S has always been known as a budget-friendly alternative to the Series X, providing access to next-gen gaming without the higher price tag.
However, as the current console generation progresses, the Series S is increasingly becoming a point of contention among developers and gamers alike. It’s becoming clearer that optimizing for this less powerful console is challenging, and Microsoft can no longer overlook this issue.
Why it matters: Microsoft needs to prioritize the needs of its customers and collaborate closely with developers to ensure games run well and look great on the console.
The Series S Dilemma
The Xbox Series S, with its less powerful hardware, has created big challenges for developers. Its weaker hardware and lower memory compared to the Series X lead to noticeable differences in performance.
Games on the Series S often feel too inferior. Another major issue with the Xbox Series S is its inconsistent frame rates. While it usually handles less demanding games well, newer titles can suffer from frame rate drops and stuttering, making the experience less enjoyable.
This issue is especially noticeable in open-world Unreal Engine 5 titles, where stuttering and frame rate dips can get extremely frustrating. A recent example of this problem is Stalker 2.
Even with Microsoft’s backing, the developers at GSC Game World have had a hard time optimizing the game for the Series S, achieving close to 30FPS. This big difference compared to the Series X version shows the ongoing difficulties with Microsoft’s dual-console approach.
Microsoft Needs To Step In
Microsoft’s plan to offer a cheaper next-gen console was meant to make gaming more accessible.
However, the execution of this strategy is increasingly coming under fire. While the Series S was designed to be an affordable option for new gamers, it’s beginning to seem like it’s limiting the overall Xbox experience.
Digital Foundry and other experts have highlighted the drawbacks of developing for the Series S. These include lower-resolution textures and reduced frame rates, making the experience noticeably worse.
Although some believe that the Series S pushes developers to improve their game optimization, this often results in a lower-quality overall experience. A more recent example of that can be seen in Marvel Rivals, where the multiplayer title drops to 540p to maintain 60FPS.
So, what can Microsoft do to fix these problems? The company should get more involved in helping developers directly. Stalker 2’s optimization, despite its difficulties, shows that Microsoft’s hands-on support can be effective.
This kind of support needs to be more common and reliable. Developers shouldn’t have to depend on special help to make their games work on the Series S—they need consistent tools and resources for optimization.
Moreover, Microsoft needs to be clearer about its plans for the Series S. To keep it a useful part of the lineup, the company must explain how it will tackle these ongoing issues.
Developers Are Not Happy With Xbox Series S
The increasing number of developers voicing concerns is telling. For instance, Del Walker, who has worked with major studios like Naughty Dog and Rocksteady, openly criticized the Series S, calling it “annoying to optimize for” and suggesting it shouldn’t exist.
Other developers share this view, seeing the Series S as a barrier that hinders their ability to fully develop their games. One major consequence of these optimization issues is the delay of Xbox releases.
Black Myth: Wukong is a prime example of the optimization issue. The game was delayed on Xbox due to the hardware limitations of the Series S. This delay is disappointing for the fans, and it tarnishes the reputation of the Xbox platform as a whole.
If more developers choose to skip or delay their games on the platform because of the Series S, Microsoft could find itself losing further ground in the console wars. So, you might be asking whether it makes sense to buy Xbox Series S in 2024?
I would say there are much better options in the market if you want a smooth gaming experience.
The Xbox Series S, while admirable in its intent, is becoming a liability for Microsoft. The ongoing optimization issues need Microsoft’s urgent attention, as they could harm the gaming brand further.
Microsoft has the means and knowledge to fix this, but it will need to act quickly and make sure the Series S can perform well alongside the Series X.
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Passionate gamer and content creator with vast knowledge of video games, and I enjoy writing content about them. My creativity and ability to think outside the box allow me to approach gaming uniquely. With my dedication to gaming and content creation, I’m constantly exploring new ways to share my passion with others.
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