Xbox Series X: 10 Quality Of Life Changes The System Needs
The new wave of high-powered video game consoles is still very difficult to find in retailers across the country. Chief among these consoles is the Xbox Series X (and the slimmer, disc-free Xbox Series S).
Microsoft's fourth-generation console has been well-received by gamers who have gotten their hands on it. Still, there are more than a few who have their fair share of complaints. From hardware to software, anything that could make the Xbox Series X better is subject to inclusion.
10 The Clicks
According to Digital Trends, the Xbox Series X is already subject to one fairly widespread issue. For many Series X owners, the console will start emitting clicking sounds after putting in a physical copy of a game or even while just installing a digital version.
No game console is perfect right off the bat. Hopefully, the issue with the disc drive will be a simple and imminent fix for the support team.
9 The Fan Makes Noise
In the same Digital Trends article, it is reported that one owner of an Xbox Series X went so far as to open the console up. They found the origin of the clicking sound to actually be the fan, not the disc drive. Specifically, there was a cable hanging down near the fan.
This is hopefully a fluke situation. If it isn't, Microsoft will have to rectify the issue as soon as possible. The clicking would be the least of the console's issues once the fan severs the cable. An unencumbered fan is something every console needs to run effectively for an extended duration.
8 Software Updates Will Be Needed
With modern technology, software updates are crucial to the functionality of the console. One Redditor, in a thread dedicated to Xbox Series X issues, voiced this point.
They state that "... it's like going from a 32" TV to a 50" TV." Essentially, the new console is better, but not by much. The user knows the console will improve, though, saying "The software will come through, and that's when the Series X will shine." They are almost certainly correct.
7 Limited HDMI Bandwidth
For context, the higher the bandwidth of Gigabits per second (GBPS), the crisper the image on the viewer or gamer's television. As of now, the Xbox Series X is limited to a 32 GBPS bandwidth.
This Redditor hopes for an update that will raise the bandwidth to 40. Considering how graphics improve after the initial release of each console generation, it seems fair to expect the Redditor will have their wish granted.
6 A Lack Of Exclusives
Redditors have quite a lot to say about the Series X. While most of it is positive, one Reddit user complains that "there are no next gen Xbox exclusive titles to play. I upgraded my system to play old gen games."
Recently, Microsoft revealed its expansive slate of Xbox exclusive games for 2021. So, it seems the Redditor's disappointment will be short-lived.
5 The Dashboard Should Be 4K
Games Radar reports that the Xbox Series X's dashboard appears to be in 1080p. It would be nice if the newest Xbox consistently outputted in 4K, even on the home screen.
Considering Sony's Playstation 5 outputs in 4K on the dashboard, Microsoft may want to improve the resolution.
4 The Blu-Ray Player Is Not As Good Quality As the PS5
The ability to show off 4K Blu-ray functionality is a must when it comes to the quality of life that a video game console can provide. Since 4K Blu-rays can be purchased in stores, a gamer's $500 console should be able to display the image in as crisp detail as possible.
Screen Rant's own comparison of the Xbox Series X and PS5's Blu-ray players found that the Playstation 5 displayed its image at a higher quality. For gamers who also use their console to watch movies, the Series X's quality of life is comparatively lacking.
3 The Shape Is Awkward
Some believe that the vertical shape of the Xbox Series X is visually unpleasant and makes it difficult to put in storage below the gamer's television.
It is of note that the Xbox Series X can lay on its side without any severe issues. However, laying the console on its side restricts airflow. Consumers need to be able to store their consoles safely and securely.
2 More Games That Can Handle Backward Compatability
According to Xbox's own site, the Series X's free backward compatibility feature allows games to play certain Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One games. There are currently plenty of games to revisit or play for the first time, but there could always be more.
The latest Xbox generation has been commended for its smooth handling of older games, so Microsoft would definitely do well to continue building its backward compatible library.
1 There Needs To Be More Games Released
The main complaint across the internet when it comes to Xbox Series X/S is the lack of new content to play. On top of the initial lineup being primarily cross-platform titles, gamers complain that there just aren't enough Xbox Series X/S games period.
Covid-19 was as bad for the entertainment industry as it was any other. This means that hot ticket titles like Halo Infinite missed their target release date, but are on their way.