Much like Sony with the PlayStation 5, Microsoft will be releasing two versions of their next-gen console; the only difference is that one of the consoles Microsoft is releasing is a low-end version of the Xbox Series X, while Sony is offering the same experience on both of their upcoming next-gen consoles.
The Xbox Series S is the low-end, cheaper version of the Xbox Series X, and it is a console that could be considered both an enhanced version of the Xbox One X and a low-end version of the Xbox Series X. Yes, it is a cheaper option, but one that Microsoft reassures will give players the same experience at a lower resolution.
While Xbox Series S does sound like a pretty great deal on paper, especially for those who don't want to play their games in 4K resolution and are going all-digital this generation, there are some who are still not convinced Microsoft's strategy is all that great.
In a recent interview with Wccftech, Chief Operating Officer of Quantic Dream David Cage has revealed that he isn't a big fan of Microsoft's idea of having two next-gen consoles.
Cage mentions that the whole situation is questionable, from a commercial standpoint, and that it may end up encouraging developers to focus on the low-end console rather than the true next-gen version.
"Many developers prefer consoles to PC because on consoles you only have to deal with one hardware, whereas on PC there are so many configurations, graphic cards, drivers, controllers etc. that makes the development much more complex.
"When a manufacturer offers two consoles with different specs, there is a strong chance that most developers will focus on the lower-end version to avoid doing two different versions. I must confess that I am really not a big fan of this situation," Cage explained.
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He then added: "I think it is confusing for developers, but also for players, and although I can understand the commercial reasons behind this choice (a difference of €200 on the street price) I think the situation is questionable."
"Regarding Quantic Dream, as we develop our own technology and engines, we are determined to optimize our titles for each platform. Being now a PC developer, we are implementing scalable features based on the platform, which is very helpful to highlight what the hardware has best to offer," Cage concluded.
Of course, this is Cage's personal opinion, so you don't need to agree with what he believes. He does make a very valid point, though, as developers may actually end up focusing on the low-end console rather than the Xbox Series X when working on their next-gen titles. Then again, Microsoft reassures the experience will be, technically, the same on both consoles — which should be, well, reassuring for those who'll purchase the Xbox Series S on launch day.
Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are expected to launch worldwide on Tuesday the 10th of November.
