Microsoft announces US$499 pricing for Xbox Series X, preorders start September 22 for November 10 launch

Microsoft has piled the pressure on Sony by announcing that its flagship Xbox Series X next-gen gaming console will be priced at US$499. It follows yesterday’s announcement that its cheaper next-gen entrant, the Xbox Series S will be priced even more sharply at just US$299. The company also revealed today that pre-orders for both consoles will start before the end of the month on September 22 before going on sale November 10.

Sony has yet to reveal any pricing details or launch timing for its next-generation PlayStation 5 console. While the PS5 will also come in a digital-only edition like Microsoft’s Series S console, it is expected to be priced only slightly cheaper than the PS5 with 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray drive as it is understood to feature the same specifications. It could put pressure on Sony to release a more direct competitor to the Xbox Series S as it offers a much more attractive entry point for gamers interested in purchasing a next-generation console.

Microsoft has repeatedly taken the initiative on the publicity side of the next-generation console wars. It first revealed the design of the Xbox Series X last year, twelve months ahead of its on-sale date. Since then, Sony has been playing catch up in terms of mindshare. An area that Sony seems to have comfortably in hand, once again, however, is in exclusive launch titles. Microsoft suffered a blow to its Xbox Series X and S launch plans when it announced that one of its exclusive launch titles Halo Infinite would be pushed back into 2021 following a negative reception to its launch trailer.

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