Everything You Need for Your Xbox Series S: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’ve snagged yourself an Xbox Series S. Excellent choice! This compact powerhouse delivers next-gen gaming at an incredibly accessible price point. But before you dive headfirst into virtual worlds, let’s break down exactly what you need to get the most out of your new console.
First and foremost, what comes in the box? The Xbox Series S console itself, one Xbox Wireless Controller, an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable, and a power cord. With those things, you can already turn on the machine and start to play. What else do you need for it to thrive?
Here’s the essential list of what you actually need:
- A Microsoft Account: Absolutely crucial. You can create one during setup, and it’s your gateway to Xbox Live, the Microsoft Store, and all things Xbox.
- A Broadband Internet Connection: The Series S is a digital-only console. That means no disc drive. Everything is downloaded, so a stable internet connection is mandatory, especially for initial setup.
- An HDMI-Capable TV or Monitor: The included HDMI cable connects your Xbox Series S to your display.
- Games: You’ll need something to play! Options include purchasing digital games from the Microsoft Store or subscribing to Xbox Game Pass.
And here’s the “nice-to-have,” which we will dive into during the FAQs:
- Xbox Game Pass Subscription (Optional but Recommended): Think of this as the Netflix of games. For a monthly fee, you get access to a vast library of titles to download and play.
- Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S (If Needed): The internal storage on the Series S can fill up quickly, so this expansion card provides seamless additional space.
- Headset (Optional): For immersive audio and communication with other players.
Now, let’s delve into some common questions to help you further optimize your Xbox Series S experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
### 1. Do I Have to Buy Games for My Xbox Series S?
Yes, you need at least one game to play. Since the Series S lacks a disc drive, your options are digital purchases from the Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Pass. Each console you wish to play a game on must have its own copy of the game associated with its own Xbox account or have the game downloaded to the storage.
### 2. Does the Xbox Series S Come with Game Pass?
Generally, no. You usually have to subscribe to Xbox Game Pass separately. However, Microsoft occasionally offers bundles that include a limited-time Game Pass subscription, like the Xbox Series S “Starter Bundle” which included three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Keep an eye out for these deals!
### 3. Is it Better to Download or Buy Physical Xbox Games?
With the Series S, this question is moot. Since it’s a digital-only console, downloading is your only option. However, in general, while physical and digital games occupy the same amount of storage, digital games offer added convenience, such as remote installation and pre-loading games before release.
### 4. Does Xbox Series S Require a Microsoft Account?
Yes, absolutely. To create an Xbox account, you must have a Microsoft account. While you can use the same email address for both, it’s important to understand that they are distinct entities. Your Microsoft account is your general account for Microsoft services, while your Xbox account is specifically for your gaming profile and Xbox Live access.
### 5. Is it Worth Buying a Series S?
For many gamers, definitely! The Series S delivers next-gen performance at a significantly lower price than the Series X. You get access to the same games, just at a lower resolution (typically 1440p compared to the Series X’s 4K). If you don’t mind the digital-only aspect and are okay with potentially needing to expand storage, the Series S is a fantastic value. The Games Learning Society is always interested in how accessible game design like this can increase inclusion and fun! You can find out more at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
### 6. What is the Disadvantage of Xbox Series S?
The primary disadvantages are its weaker GPU, less RAM compared to the Xbox Series X (and even some older consoles like the Xbox One X), the lack of a disc drive, and its resolution cap of 1440p. The storage space, while adequate, can also fill up relatively quickly.
### 7. How Many Games Can the Xbox Series S Hold?
This depends on the size of the games, but realistically, you can expect to fit around 5-10 averagely sized games (30-50GB each) on the internal storage. Larger titles will obviously take up more space.
### 8. Why is the Series S So Cheap?
The Series S is more affordable because it has less powerful hardware than the Series X. It targets a lower resolution (1440p instead of 4K), which reduces the demands on the GPU and other components. The absence of a disc drive also contributes to the lower cost.
### 9. Do You Have to Be Online to Use Xbox Series S?
You absolutely must be online for the initial setup. After the console has updated and you’ve added your profile, you can go offline, but you’ll lose access to digital games and online features. The Series S is primarily designed for an online experience.
### 10. How to Get Xbox Live Free?
There isn’t a completely free way to get Xbox Live Gold (now Xbox Game Pass Core), but you can earn Microsoft Points through Microsoft Rewards and redeem them for subscriptions. Keep an eye out for free trial promotions and Xbox Live Gold Free Play Days.
### 11. Should I Put My Xbox Series S Vertical or Horizontal?
You can place your Xbox Series S either vertically or horizontally. The only requirement is that you place your console on a stable, well-ventilated surface away from direct heat sources.
### 12. How Do You Get Games on Xbox Series S?
You can purchase games directly from the Microsoft Store on your console. Alternatively, you can buy them online through xbox.com/games on your computer or mobile device and have them remotely installed to your console.
### 13. What Kind of Power Cord Does Xbox Series S Use?
The Xbox Series S uses a standard 2-slot power cord, typically rated at 18 AWG x 2C, 125V 10A. The provided cord is specifically designed for this console.
### 14. How Many Controllers Can Connect to Xbox Series S?
You can connect up to eight wireless controllers to your Xbox Series S console.
### 15. Can You Play on Xbox Series S Away From Home?
Yes, you can! Using the Xbox mobile app or the Xbox app for Windows, you can remotely play games installed on your console, provided you have a good internet connection on both ends.