A new generation of gaming is knocking on our door. Microsoft has unleashed the most powerful gaming console ever created, the Xbox Series X. Officially revealed in December of 2019, Microsoft slowly started to pull the curtain back on the next-gen console’s hardware, software and services.
From detailed hardware specs to a first look at next-gen games, there is a lot to be excited about. Sometimes keeping track of all the news can be difficult and daunting. To make things easier, we have created a one stop shop for all the latest and greatest news on Xbox Series X.
Microsoft plans to acquire Activision Blizzard
In a deal that will cost $68.7 billion USD, Microsoft has announced its plans to purchase Activision Blizzard. When the transaction closes in 2023, Microsoft will become the world’s third-largest gaming company by revenue, behind Tencent and Sony. The planned acquisition includes iconic franchises from the Activision, Blizzard and King studios such as Warcraft, Diablo, Overwatch, Call of Duty and Candy Crush.
In addition, the deal will include global eSports activities through Major League Gaming. Current CEO Bobby Kotick will continue his role and once the deal closes, Activision Blizzard will report to Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer. Moreover, once the acquisition is complete, Activision Blizzard games will launch into Game Pass, which now has over 25 million subscribers.
Furthermore, in a blog post, Phil Spencer said that the acquisition will accelerate Xbox’s plans for Xbox Cloud Gaming. Interestingly, Phil Spencer commented that they will continue to support the communities where Activision Blizzard games are enjoyed. What does this mean for the mega popular franchises such as Call of Duty?
On Twitter, Phil Spencer said that he spoke with PlayStation about Call of Duty and said “I confirmed our intent to honor all existing agreements upon acquisition of Activision Blizzard and our desire to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation”. “Sony is an important part of our industry, and we value our relationship.” It appears, at this point in time, gamers can expect Call of Duty games on PlayStation for at least the next two years.
Halo Infinite release date and Xbox announcements from gamescom 2021
The wait to play Halo Infinite is almost over! This week at gamescom 2021, Xbox announced that Halo Infinite is launching December 8, 2021. It will be available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC. In addition, two limited edition pieces of hardware to celebrate Halo’s 20th anniversary were announced. The Halo Infinite Limited Edition Xbox Series X Bundle and the Halo Infinite Limited Edition Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 will both launch on November 15, 2021. Click here for more details on Halo Infinite and the limited edition hardware.
In addition, Xbox showcased new footage and details on Forza 5 and showcased both of Forza Horizon 5’s cover cars. In other big Xbox news from gamescom 2021, Xbox Cloud Gaming is coming to Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles this holiday. And a new Microsoft Flight Simulator update was announced. Click here to read about these and other exciting Xbox gamescom 2021 announcements.
Hot Xbox accessories
The arrival of the Xbox Series of consoles has also brought with it newly designed controllers. The new remotes refine the old design with enhanced ergonomics, a new hybrid D-pad, and textured grip. They also sport a new “Share button” which lets you easily capture and share screenshots, recordings and more. When it comes to multiplayer gaming you could always use an extra remote! Express your personal style with a host of colours including Robot White, Shock Blue, Carbon Black and Pulse Red.
Xbox Storage Expansion Card
The Xbox platform has a ton to play, from the rapidly growing Game Pass library to hot new releases you’re going to need more space. Enter the Seagate 1TB Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X and Series S with easy plug and play compatibility. The Expansion Card is the only hardware currently on the market that works with the “Xbox Velocity Architecture.” The hardware provides lightning-fast load times that are required with the Xbox Series line of consoles and next-gen games.
Designed with gamers in mind the Xbox Wireless Headset dials up your immersion with high quality audio. The headset is compatible with Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Headphone:X sound technologies for multi-dimensional sound. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers up to 15 hours of runtime to keep you gaming even longer. Purchase the Xbox Wireless Headset here or check out Best Buy’s full range of gaming console headsets.
Xbox Series X unboxing and review
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Xbox fans, make sure to bookmark this page to keep up with the latest news on Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S at Best Buy. We’ll be updating this page regularly with the newest info.
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