Why do some Xbox games say XS?
Some Xbox games say XS because they are optimized for Xbox Series X
| S, meaning the developer has done the extra work to take full advantage of the unique capabilities of Xbox Series X | S, such as faster loading times, improved graphics, and higher frame rates. The XS label indicates that the game has been built to run natively on the new console series, providing the best possible gaming experience for Xbox Series X |
|---|
Understanding XS Games
To understand why some Xbox games say XS, it’s essential to know the difference between Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. The primary difference between the two consoles is that Xbox Series X displays games at native 4K, comes equipped with a UHD Blu-ray Disc player, and 1 TB of custom SSD storage, while Xbox Series S is designed for disc-free gaming at 1440p with a customized SSD.
FAQS
1. Can regular Xbox play XS games?
Xbox Series X|S game compatibility with the Xbox One console is provided on a per-title basis by the game’s developer, so it’s best to check the game’s details page in the Microsoft Store to confirm compatibility.
2. What does XS mean in gaming?
A game that is “optimized for Xbox Series X/S” means that the game has been built to run natively on the new console series and takes advantage of the hardware improvements over the Xbox One.
3. What is Xbox series XS version?
The Xbox Series X displays games at native 4K, while the Xbox Series S has less-powerful graphics hardware designed more for 1080p and sometimes 1440p visuals.
4. Can I play XS optimized games on Xbox One?
On Xbox Series X|S, both versions are playable, but on Xbox One, only the Xbox One version is playable.
5. Can you play XS optimized games on external hard drive?
USB external drives support Xbox X|S games for storage, but they cannot be played from the drives, and you can only play Xbox Series X or S games if they are installed on the internal NVME SSD drive.
6. Which is better Xbox XS or S?
The Series X is designed for games with resolutions of up to 4K, while the Series S has less-powerful graphics hardware designed more for 1080p and sometimes 1440p visuals.
7. What is the difference between Xbox S and XS?
The two consoles are based on a similar foundation and will play all of the same games, but the Series X and Series S each target a different level of graphics performance.
8. Is Xbox XS the same as Xbox One?
No, the Series S outperforms the Xbox One in every single area, delivering optimal gameplay at faster speeds with more power and higher resolution.
9. Is it worth buying a Series S?
Yes, the Series S can play all the same games as the more expensive Xbox Series X, and it’s completely disc-less, so you need to buy all your games digitally.
10. What XS means?
In gaming, XS means Xbox Series X|S, but in other contexts, XS can also mean extra small, used for sizes of things, especially clothes.
11. Which Xbox is the newest?
The newest Xbox consoles are the Series X and Series S, released in 2020, which deliver next-generation capabilities powered by the Xbox Velocity Architecture.
12. Is Xbox XS next gen?
Yes, both Xbox Series X|S consoles deliver next-generation capabilities, such as faster loading, the ability to seamlessly switch between multiple games with Quick Resume, and frame rates up to 120 FPS.
13. Is it worth upgrading Xbox One to Series S?
Yes, it’s worth upgrading to next-gen consoles like the Xbox Series S, as it’s more powerful and will have exclusive games.
14. Can Xbox Series S do 4K?
The Xbox Series X displays games at native 4K, but the Xbox Series S is designed for disc-free gaming at 1440p with the ability to upscale to 4K.
15. Is the Xbox Series S worth it in 2023?
Yes, the Xbox Series S is still a worthwhile entry point into the new generation, especially when combined with Xbox Game Pass, despite its compromises like the lower 1440p resolution and small SSD.