Microsoft Jumps the Gun, Announces Both Xbox One S and Xbox One Scorpio

Microsoft, staying true to its tradition of totally not giving its products confusing names, has unveiled two additions to the Xbox One family, Xbox One S and Xbox One Scorpio (or just Scorpio). Xbox One S is a slightly improved version of the vanilla console – slimmer, neater, capable of playing 4K video and supporting High Dynamic Range (basically, better colors and lighting effects). There will be no difference with regard to performance between two consoles, though. Xbox Ones S will come equipped with the new Xbox Wireless Controller, offering textured grip and the ability to use it with other devices via Bluetooth. So, if you want to see how it all looks, and there isn’t enough white in your life, here they are:

Scorpio, on the other hand, is the Microsoft’s answer to PlayStation 4 Neo. Just as the new system from Sony, the Scorpio will be aimed at 4K and VR enthusiasts and eschew exclusivity: Every game released for Scorpio will run on Xbox Ones S and Xbox One. But here’s where things get interesting. Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, claimed in an interview with Eurogamer that there will be no point in opting for Scorpio if the TV you own doesn’t go above 1080p. But what about increased framerate? Spencer avoided giving a direct answer, talking instead about bringing 1080p at 60 fps experience to 4K at 60 fps with the Scorpio. Evidently, better graphics is a more potent selling point than better framerate, so you can scarcely blame Spencer for underscoring the former. And the games, mind you, will have the best pixels you’ve ever seen:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-JO61zNhhI&ab_channel=E3Trailers

Some criticized Microsoft for revealing Scorpio this soon – the release date is set for the end of 2017. The argument goes that few will consider upgrading to Xbox One S when they know what lies in store for them. But Microsoft is more interested in bringing new people in, hoping to out price the competition and replicate the success of Nintendo Wii. While Scorpio is a year and a half away, the most expensive variant of Xbox One S is gearing up for release as early as August. It’ll be priced at $399 and come with 2 TB of storage. Other models with 500 GB and 1 TB of disk capacity will set you back $299 and $349, respectively. They are slated for December of this year.