What Happens to My Disc Games if I Buy the Xbox Series S?

The short, sharp answer is: your disc games won’t work on the Xbox Series S. The Xbox Series S is an all-digital console, meaning it lacks a disc drive entirely. Think of it like this: you’re trying to play a vinyl record on a CD player – it’s simply not going to happen. Your existing library of Xbox One, Xbox 360, or original Xbox games on disc will, unfortunately, be rendered unplayable on this console unless you also own those games digitally. This is a crucial point to consider before making the leap to the Series S.

Understanding the All-Digital Ecosystem

The Xbox Series S represents a significant shift towards a digital-centric gaming experience. While the Xbox Series X caters to gamers who value physical media, the Series S is designed for those who are comfortable purchasing and downloading their games directly. This approach has several implications, both positive and negative, for existing Xbox owners.

The Upsides of Going Digital

• Convenience: Digital games offer unparalleled convenience. No more swapping discs, worrying about scratches, or cluttering your shelves. Your entire library is accessible with just a few button presses.
• Pre-loading: Digital purchases allow you to pre-load games before their release date, ensuring you can jump in the moment they become available.
• Xbox Game Pass: The all-digital nature of the Series S makes it an ideal companion for Xbox Game Pass. This subscription service provides access to a vast library of games for a monthly fee, offering incredible value.
• Space Savings: The smaller console and lack of game cases lead to less clutter, an important distinction for those who like to keep their areas clean.

The Downsides of Ditching Discs

• Loss of Physical Ownership: With digital games, you don’t truly own the game. You own a license to play it, which can be revoked under certain circumstances (e.g., account bans).
• No Resale Value: Physical games can be resold or traded, recouping some of your initial investment. Digital games, on the other hand, are non-transferable and have no resale value.
• Dependence on Internet Connection: Downloading games requires a stable and reasonably fast internet connection.
• Potentially Higher Costs: While deals can be found, digital games often maintain their price longer than physical copies, which tend to decrease in price over time.

Making the Decision: Series S or Series X?

Choosing between the Xbox Series S and Series X hinges on your gaming habits and priorities. If you have a large collection of disc-based games, or if you value physical ownership and the ability to resell games, the Series X is undoubtedly the better choice. However, if you’re primarily interested in digital downloads, Game Pass, and a more affordable entry point into next-gen gaming, the Series S is a compelling option. It will also save you on the cost of the console itself.

What About Upgrading Older Games?

Microsoft has implemented a system called Smart Delivery, which ensures you always get the best version of a game for your console. If you own an Xbox One game digitally that has been “Optimized for Series X/S,” you’ll receive a free upgrade. This applies whether you’re playing on the Series X or Series S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use an external USB disc drive with the Xbox Series S?

No. The Xbox Series S does not support external USB disc drives. It is designed to be an exclusively digital console.

2. Will Microsoft ever release an external Blu-ray disc drive for the Xbox Series S?

There’s been no official announcement about this from Microsoft. Given the Series S’s focus on digital gaming, it’s unlikely they will release such a device, as it would cannibalize sales of the more expensive Series X.

3. If I buy a game digitally on my Xbox One, will I have to buy it again for the Xbox Series S?

Not necessarily. If the game supports Smart Delivery, you’ll be able to download the enhanced Series S version for free, provided you use the same Microsoft account. Otherwise, you might need to purchase the game again if it’s not a Play Anywhere title.

4. How much storage does the Xbox Series S have, and how many games can it hold?

The Xbox Series S has 512GB of internal storage, but the usable space is less due to the operating system and system files. On average, you can expect to install 6-8 larger AAA games, or more smaller indie titles. However, you can supplement this with an official Xbox storage expansion card, sold separately.

5. Can I play Xbox One games on the Xbox Series S?

Yes, most Xbox One games are compatible with the Xbox Series S through backward compatibility. However, a small number of titles may not be compatible.

6. Will Xbox 360 or original Xbox games on disc work on the Xbox Series S?

No. Since the Xbox Series S lacks a disc drive, it cannot play any disc-based games, including those from Xbox 360 and the original Xbox. Digital versions of some of these older games are playable if they are backward compatible and available in the digital store.

7. If I own a game on disc, can I get a free digital copy for my Xbox Series S?

Unfortunately, there’s no official program that allows you to exchange a physical disc for a digital copy of the same game. The only way to play a game on the Series S is to purchase it digitally.

8. What is Xbox Game Pass, and how does it work with the Xbox Series S?

Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service that gives you access to a library of games for a monthly fee. It’s a great fit for the Xbox Series S since you can download and play games without purchasing them individually.

9. Is it better to buy games digitally or on disc?

This depends on your preferences. Digital games offer convenience, pre-loading, and are a good match with Game Pass. Physical discs offer ownership, resale value, and often decrease in price faster.

10. How does Smart Delivery work?

Smart Delivery automatically delivers the best version of a game for your Xbox console (Series X, Series S, or One). If you purchase a game that supports Smart Delivery, you’ll only need to buy it once, and you’ll get the appropriate version for your console, regardless of which generation it is.

11. Can I share my digital games with friends on the Xbox Series S?

Yes, you can use the Home Xbox feature to share your digital games and Xbox Game Pass subscription with one other person.

12. Will my progress from Xbox One games transfer to the Xbox Series S?

Yes, game progress and saves are typically stored in the cloud and will automatically transfer to your Xbox Series S when you sign in with the same Microsoft account.

13. What happens if I get banned from Xbox Live? Will I lose my digital games?

Yes, if you get banned from Xbox Live, you could lose access to your digital games tied to that account, as you lose the license to play them. This is one of the risks associated with digital ownership.

14. Is the Xbox Series S powerful enough to run new games?

While less powerful than the Series X, the Xbox Series S is still a capable console. It can play all the same games as the Series X, although often at a lower resolution (typically 1440p) and sometimes with slightly reduced graphical settings.

15. Where can I learn more about the educational benefits of video games?

Video games can be very educational. If you’re interested in exploring the potential of games for learning, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. They conduct research and promote the use of games in education.

Ultimately, deciding whether to purchase an Xbox Series S hinges on understanding its all-digital nature and how it aligns with your gaming habits and preferences. Consider your existing game library, your willingness to embrace digital purchases, and your budget before making your decision. Happy gaming!