As a seasoned gamer and tech enthusiast, I often get asked if the Xbox Series S is worth buying in 2024. I’ve explored its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you make a confident choice. Join me as I break down everything you need to know about this next-gen console.
Xbox Series S: An Overview
The Xbox Series S, released by Microsoft in late 2020, is a next-generation console that aims to deliver high-quality gaming experiences at a more affordable price point. It is designed to provide access to the latest games and features without breaking the bank.
Key Features of the Xbox Series S
- Compact Design: The Xbox Series S is known for its sleek and compact design. Weighing at just 1.9Kgs, it’s significantly smaller than its larger and more powerful sibling, the Xbox Series X, making it a perfect fit for smaller spaces.
- Performance: Despite its size, the Xbox Series S packs a punch. It features a custom 512 GB/ 1 TB SSD, enabling faster load times and smoother gameplay. The console supports up to 1440p resolution at 60 FPS, with some games reaching up to 120 FPS.
- Next-Gen Capabilities: Powered by Xbox Velocity Architecture, the Series S supports the ability to seamlessly switch between multiple games with Quick Resume, ray tracing to a limited extent, and variable refresh rate, ensuring visually stunning and immersive gaming experiences.
- Game Pass Compatibility: One of the standout features of the Xbox Series S is its compatibility with Xbox Game Pass. This subscription service provides access to a vast library of games, including new releases and beloved classics.
Now comes the Big Question : Is Xbox Series S Worth it for New Gamers in 2024 in India ?
While the Xbox Series S has many strengths, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. To help you decide on this purchase, I will list each factor in order of priority:
Storage Space: Xbox series S comes with both 512Gb and 1Tb Version. If you choose the 512 GB version, be aware that the SSD might fill up quickly, especially with large AAA game files. The 512 GB SSD offers approximately 364 GB of usable space for game storage. If you plan to maintain a substantial library of games, you should consider the 1 TB version, which provides around 850 GB of usable space, or you need to consider investing in an additional storage solution.
No Disc Drive: The Xbox Series S is an all-digital console, meaning it does not support physical game discs. This could be a drawback if you prefer collecting physical copies or already own a library of disc-based games. However, in today’s world, digital versions of games are often more economical than physical copies.
Additionally, whether you purchase a physical disc or download a game from the store, the game will still need to be installed on your console, taking up the same amount of storage space. While having a disc drive can be advantageous for those who prefer physical media, it is not a necessity for most of today’s gamers. Embracing the all-digital format can be more convenient and cost-effective in the long run.
Accessibility: Another key feature to consider is the Xbox Game Pass. With this subscription, you gain access to a vast library of games without the need for hefty individual game purchases. This is especially beneficial for new gamers who want to explore various genres without committing to expensive titles. This further emphasizes the advantage of digital downloads, making a physical disc drive unnecessary.
Future-Proofing: The Xbox Series S is equipped with next-gen features and receives consistent updates from Microsoft, ensuring it remains relevant for years to come. Typically, a console’s average lifespan is 7-8 years. Released in late 2020, we can safely assume that the next-gen console won’t be released for at least another 3-4 years. Even after the release of the next generation, developers usually continue to support the current console for an additional 3 years. Therefore, purchasing the Xbox Series S now should provide access to new games for the next 6-7 years, making it a sound investment for gamers looking to stay current with the latest gaming advancements.
Lower Resolution: The Xbox Series S supports up to 1440p but doesn’t natively support 4K gaming. If 4K resolution is a priority, the Xbox Series X might be a better fit. However, if you prioritize gameplay mechanics over ultra-realistic visuals, 1440p is still an excellent resolution. With a TV or monitor capable of upscaling to 4K, you should hardly notice a difference in visual quality.
Affordability: For Indian gamers, the pricing of the Xbox Series S offers an attractive deal. You can expect to find the 512 GB version priced between ₹35,000 to ₹37,000. For the 1 TB version, the cost typically ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹42,000. Notably, for an additional ₹4,000 to ₹5,000, you can upgrade to the more powerful Xbox Series X.
If you’re willing to spend around ₹40,000 on the Xbox Series S, it might be more worthwhile to consider the Xbox Series X by investing just a bit more. The price difference in India between these models isn’t as significant as it is in the US or other countries, making the Series X an excellent value proposition for a relatively small additional cost.
Conclusion:
The Xbox Series S offers a cost-effective entry into next-gen gaming, particularly appealing with its compact design, digital-only format, and access to Xbox Game Pass. However, the 512 GB version’s limited storage and lack of a disc drive may be restrictive for some users. The 1 TB version or investing in additional storage can mitigate space concerns. Although it lacks native 4K support, its 1440p resolution remains impressive. Given its affordability and Microsoft’s ongoing support, the Xbox Series S is a solid choice for new gamers in India, but the Xbox Series X might be a better long-term investment for a slightly higher price.
