Microsoft and AMD are teaming up to reshape the future of gaming—again. In a bold multi-year partnership, the two companies are co-engineering custom silicon to power not just the next Xbox console, but an entire ecosystem of devices: handhelds, cloud servers, gaming PCs, and accessories. The initiative, titled “Powering the Next Generation of Xbox,” goes far beyond a traditional console refresh—it’s a full strategic pivot toward a more flexible, AI-driven, Windows-integrated Xbox platform.
Microsoft & AMD: A Deeper Collaboration
At the heart of this next-gen vision is custom AMD silicon. According to Xbox President Sarah Bond, the chips are designed specifically for a lineup that spans traditional consoles, portable gaming handhelds, and cloud-based platforms. The collaboration draws on AMD’s leadership in high-performance computing and graphics, combined with Microsoft’s investments in AI, DirectX, and Windows.
“We’re building the future together—from silicon to systems to services,” Bond said during the Xbox Games Showcase.
This is a continuation of AMD’s legacy with Xbox—having already powered the Xbox One, Series S, and Series X—but with a broader scope. Now, AMD is not just a chip supplier, but a co-architect of the Xbox ecosystem.
What to Expect: Features & Vision
1. AI-Powered Gaming
The next-gen AMD chips will offer built-in AI acceleration, enabling smarter NPCs, adaptive worlds, and real-time upscaling technologies similar to AMD’s FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution). Think of it as Xbox leveraging AI not just for visuals, but for gameplay itself.
2. Visual Fidelity
Expect significant boosts in ray tracing, lighting, and texture rendering thanks to RDNA 4 and Zen 5 core integration. This puts Xbox in position to go head-to-head with PC gaming rigs and the rumored PS6.
3. Cross-Platform & Multi-Store
Microsoft confirmed that future Xbox hardware will not be locked to a single store. You’ll be able to play games across Steam, Epic Games Store, and Game Pass—on the same device. This signals a radical departure from traditional console walled gardens and a move toward platform neutrality.
4. Windows Integration
Microsoft is essentially making Windows the backbone of Xbox’s hardware future. Whether you’re on a console, handheld, or cloud instance, the experience will be unified through Windows-based architecture and services.
The Rise of Xbox Handhelds
Rather than build its own first-party handheld, Microsoft has shifted strategy: it’s partnering with Asus on the ROG Xbox Ally line. Two models are expected by holiday 2025—both powered by custom AMD Ryzen APUs with 120Hz displays and Xbox-optimized Windows UI overlays.
This move mirrors Valve’s Steam Deck approach but emphasizes Xbox ecosystem tightness—complete with Game Pass, xCloud, and Xbox achievements. Internally dubbed “Project Kennan,” these handhelds mark Microsoft’s first major push into portable gaming since the Surface Duo experiment.
What the Community Is Saying
On Reddit and gaming forums, many fans see the ROG Ally X as a precursor to Microsoft’s full Windows-console hybrid. The consensus is growing that the next mainline Xbox could essentially be a high-performance Windows PC in console form, offering deep backward compatibility and mod support.
“It’s a Windows console that runs Xbox games and Steam. This is what we’ve been asking for,” one user wrote on r/Xbox.
Others are excited about the open store policy:
“An Xbox experience not locked to a single store is massive. It means no more walled garden—finally.”
Watch the Official Announcement
Microsoft and AMD released a behind-the-scenes video titled
“Xbox + AMD: Powering the Next Generation of Xbox,”
which dives into their co-engineering efforts and what gamers can expect. The video discusses architecture, thermal management, and future-proofing for AI workloads and graphics-intensive titles.
📺 Watch the official video on YouTube
Why This Matters
This is more than a hardware update—it’s Microsoft’s new platform strategy in action:
- Unified ecosystem across devices
- Open marketplace access
- AI-first gaming
- Modular hardware from multiple partners
If successful, this could position Xbox not just as a console—but as a cross-device service that blurs the line between PC and console gaming.
Stay tuned as Microsoft reveals more specs, release timelines, and pricing later in 2025. A formal reveal of the next Xbox console is expected by early 2026, but development kits are already reportedly in the hands of select studios.
Best Microsoft Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S Games
Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S bring gaming to life with stunning graphics and fast load times. Both systems let players enjoy a huge library of games, from brand new releases to older favorites. The best Xbox Series X and S games in 2025 include top titles like Baldur’s Gate 3, Elden Ring, and Starfield that showcase what these powerful consoles can do.
Gamers looking for their next great play have many options across different types of games. Some titles take advantage of the console’s power with amazing visuals, while others offer deep stories or fun multiplayer experiences. Game Pass also gives players access to hundreds of games for a monthly fee, making it easier to try new games without buying each one.
1) Starfield
Starfield is a next-generation role-playing game set in space, created by Bethesda. Players can create any character they want and explore with complete freedom as they journey to answer humanity’s greatest mystery.
The game is available on both Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. If you’re considering which console to get for Starfield, there are some differences to note.
The Xbox Series X offers the premium experience with 4K resolution and better performance. The Series S is more affordable, often found second-hand for around €220, making it the cheapest way to play Starfield.
Loading times and frame rates differ between the two consoles. The Series X typically handles the game more smoothly with faster loading screens and more stable frame rates up to 60 FPS.
Bethesda has been regularly updating Starfield since its release. These updates have improved performance on both Xbox Series X and S consoles.
Starfield stands out in the Xbox game library alongside other major titles like Halo and Forza. It’s considered one of the best Xbox Series X games available right now.
The game offers a massive universe to explore with countless planets and moons. Players can build ships, join factions, and make choices that shape their story in this vast space adventure.
If you enjoy open-world games with freedom to chart your own path, Starfield delivers that experience on a cosmic scale. The game combines combat, exploration, story, and role-playing elements into one package.
2) Baldur’s Gate 3
Baldur’s Gate 3 has become one of the most impressive RPGs available on Xbox Series X and S. This fantasy adventure lets players create their own character and explore a rich story filled with choices.
The game runs well on both Xbox consoles, though there are some differences between them. On Xbox Series X, the graphics look stunning with highly detailed environments and characters. The Series S version still looks good but with less detail.
One big feature on Series X is split-screen co-op play for two players on one console. This option isn’t available on Series S, but both consoles support online multiplayer for up to four players.
The gameplay offers huge freedom in how you approach situations. You can talk your way through problems, sneak past enemies, or fight head-on. Each choice shapes your story and relationships with companions.
Combat uses a turn-based system based on Dungeons & Dragons rules. This gives players time to think about their moves and create clever strategies.
Load times are quick on both Xbox models, though the Series X loads a bit faster. The game has received several updates since its Xbox release to fix issues and improve performance.
Players can expect about 100 hours of gameplay for a single playthrough. With different character classes, story choices, and companion relationships, there’s plenty of reason to play multiple times.
Despite some early technical issues on Xbox, patches have fixed most problems. The game now runs smoothly and stands as one of the best RPGs you can play on either Xbox Series console.
3) Elden Ring
Elden Ring stands out as one of the best games for Xbox Series X and Series S. This fantasy action-RPG was created by a dream team: George R.R. Martin and Hidetaka Miyazaki worked together to build its world.
The game sends players on an epic adventure through the Lands Between. You play as a Tarnished, fighting to restore the broken Elden Ring and become the new Elden Lord.
Combat feels tough but fair. Each boss battle tests your skills and patience. The freedom to explore at your own pace makes the challenge more manageable.
Xbox Series X shows better graphics than Series S, but both run the game well. Players note that while the Series X looks sharper, the actual gameplay experience feels similar on both consoles.
The open world design breaks from the usual formula. You can go anywhere and tackle challenges in almost any order. This freedom makes each player’s journey unique.
Elden Ring also features a special multiplayer system. You can team up directly with friends or see traces of other players through messages and ghostly figures.
Character creation offers countless options. Build a warrior, mage, or something completely new. The gear you find changes how you play.
The game rewards curiosity. Hidden areas, secret bosses, and helpful items wait for players who explore every corner of the map.
Despite its difficulty, Elden Ring welcomes new players with clear systems and helpful tools. The struggle makes victory feel earned and special.
4) Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 stands as one of the best racing games available on Xbox Series X and S. Set in Mexico, the game offers stunning landscapes from jungles to deserts, all rendered in beautiful detail.
The game runs exceptionally well on Xbox Series X with 4K resolution and smooth performance. Players with an Xbox Series S can still enjoy the game at a lower resolution but with similar gameplay features. The Xbox Series X version provides better visuals compared to the Series S.
Car enthusiasts will love the huge collection of vehicles. The game includes hundreds of cars from everyday models to rare supercars. Each car handles differently and can be customized to match your driving style.
The open world design gives players freedom to explore at their own pace. You can race through streets, participate in off-road challenges, or just cruise around taking in the scenery.
Forza Horizon 5 is available through Xbox Game Pass, making it easy to try without buying it outright. Game Pass subscribers can play on console, PC, or even stream it to mobile devices.
For those wanting everything the game offers, the Premium Edition bundle includes the base game plus expansions like Hot Wheels, VIP membership, and Car Pass.
The seasonal events keep the game fresh months after release. Each week brings new challenges and rewards for players to earn.
Online features let you race against friends or join random players in various events. The community aspect adds hours of fun beyond the solo campaign.
5) Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite stands as a flagship title for Xbox Series X and Series S. This game continues Master Chief’s story with an expansive open-world campaign that brings new life to the iconic franchise.
On Xbox Series X, players can enjoy enhanced features like 120 FPS gameplay and much faster load times. These improvements create a smooth gaming experience that truly shows off next-generation capabilities.
The Xbox Series S version also performs well but has some differences. When comparing the two consoles, the most noticeable differences appear in shadowing, lighting, and black contrast, with the Series X showing superior performance in these areas.
Halo Infinite offers both single-player and multiplayer experiences. The campaign lets players explore a vast Halo ring, while the free-to-play multiplayer mode provides endless competitive action.
The multiplayer portion features classic Halo game modes alongside new offerings. Players can jump into team-based matches or free-for-all combat across various maps designed for different play styles.
Visual quality remains impressive across both Xbox consoles. The game showcases detailed environments, stunning weapon effects, and fluid character animations that bring the Halo universe to life.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, Halo Infinite delivers the core Halo experience with modern improvements. The game balances nostalgia with fresh ideas to create something both familiar and new.
Available through Xbox Game Pass, Halo Infinite is easily accessible for subscribers. This makes it an essential part of the Xbox game library and a showcase title for what the Series X and Series S can do.
6) The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most impressive games available for Xbox Series X and S. This fantasy RPG follows Geralt of Rivia on his quest to find his adopted daughter while battling monsters in a vast open world.
On Xbox Series X|S, the game has received significant upgrades. Players can enjoy improved level of detail, faster loading times, and real-time ray tracing that make the already beautiful world even more stunning.
The game offers over 100 hours of gameplay in its main story alone. With side quests and activities, players can spend hundreds of hours exploring the rich, monster-filled world.
For those wanting the full experience, the Complete Edition includes the base game and both major story expansions. These add even more content to an already massive game.
Combat in The Witcher 3 mixes swordplay with magic signs and potions. Players must prepare for battles by researching monster weaknesses and crafting the right tools for each fight.
The game’s story changes based on player choices. Small decisions can have big impacts later, giving players a sense that their actions matter in this world.
If you’re trying to decide between consoles, some players specifically ask if they should buy Series S or X just to play The Witcher 3 at its best. While both run the game well, the Series X offers the top visual experience.
The Witcher 3’s world is based on Slavonic mythology, giving it a unique feel compared to other fantasy games. This setting helps create its distinct atmosphere and memorable characters.
7) Alan Wake 2
Alan Wake 2 stands as one of the most visually impressive games available on Xbox Series X. The game delivers a stunning horror experience that takes full advantage of next-gen hardware.
Released as a sequel to the cult classic, this survival horror game follows both writer Alan Wake and FBI agent Saga Anderson. Players get to explore two distinct and terrifying worlds, each filled with unique characters and threats.
The game performs exceptionally well on Xbox Series X. It offers both quality and performance modes targeting 30 and 60 frames per second respectively. The Series X version actually performs better than the PS5 version by better using the Xbox hardware.
On Series X, players can enjoy an almost locked 60fps in performance mode with rare drops. This makes for a smooth gaming experience, even during intense moments.
The game features beautiful yet terrifying worlds to explore. You’ll visit the majestic landscapes of Cauldron Lake in the Pacific Northwest and the idyllic towns of Bright Falls and Watery.
Series S owners can also enjoy Alan Wake 2, though with expected visual cutbacks. The game still runs well on the less powerful console while maintaining the core experience.
The lighting effects and atmosphere create an intense horror setting that pulls players in. The story builds on the original game while welcoming newcomers.
Combat feels tense and rewarding as players face supernatural threats. The mix of action and puzzle-solving keeps the gameplay fresh throughout the adventure.
For Xbox owners seeking a high-quality horror experience, Alan Wake 2 delivers both technically and artistically. It ranks among the best-looking games on the console.
8) Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator stands as one of the most impressive games for the Xbox Series X and S consoles. The game lets players fly various aircraft across a detailed recreation of our planet.
On the Xbox Series X, the game runs at 4K resolution with higher graphics quality, making the flying experience truly stunning. The Series S version runs at 1080p with slightly lower graphics settings but still delivers an excellent experience.
Players can choose from light planes to commercial jets, with the game offering guidance that matches your skill level. This makes it approachable for both beginners and experienced virtual pilots.
The Xbox Series X is the best option for running Flight Simulator, especially for those with 4K TVs. The extra power helps handle the game’s complex simulations and vast world.
The 2024 version of Flight Simulator continues to push boundaries on Xbox consoles. Recent gameplay shows the game performs well on both systems, with the Series X offering performance similar to a mid-range gaming PC.
The game includes interactive instrument guidance and checklists to help players master each aircraft. These features make the complex world of flight accessible to everyone.
Weather changes, day-night cycles, and season shifts create endless flying conditions. This keeps the experience fresh no matter how many hours players spend in the cockpit.
The attention to detail in airports, cities, and natural landmarks makes exploring the virtual world rewarding. Players can visit familiar places or discover new locations from above.
9) Fable
Fable is a beloved action role-playing game series that has captured the hearts of Xbox fans for years. The original game was recently enhanced for Xbox Series X with Auto HDR and FPS Boost, making it look better than ever.
Players who own an Xbox Series X or S can enjoy Fable Anniversary, which is a HD remaster of the first game. This version includes new models, textures, lighting, and extra content from The Lost Chapters expansion.
The game puts players in the shoes of a hero whose choices shape their journey. Good and evil decisions affect how the character looks and how people react to them in the game world.
Many fans consider the original Fable to be the best in the series for its storyline and charm. Fable 2 added more features, but the first game holds a special place in gaming history.
Xbox Game Pass members can play these classic titles as part of their subscription. This makes it easy to try the series without buying each game separately.
A new Fable game is currently in development for Xbox Series X|S. Fans can get this upcoming title on the same day it releases through Xbox Game Pass.
The Fable series stands out for its British humor, fantasy setting, and moral choice system. These games let players craft their own story through the decisions they make.
10) Perfect Dark
Perfect Dark is a beloved spy-themed shooter originally released for the Nintendo 64. The game later became part of the Xbox family and can now be played on modern Xbox consoles through backward compatibility and the Rare Replay collection.
What makes Perfect Dark special is its mix of stealth, action, and gadgets in a near-future setting. Players take on the role of Joanna Dark, a secret agent working to uncover global conspiracies. The game stands out for its strong female protagonist, which was uncommon when it first released.
Xbox owners can enjoy the enhanced version through Xbox Live, which includes improved textures and online multiplayer. This makes it easy to experience this classic on Xbox Series X or S.
A new Perfect Dark reboot is currently in development by The Initiative and Crystal Dynamics. It’s expected to be a major Xbox exclusive that will take advantage of the Series X’s powerful hardware.
The game will be available day one with Game Pass, making it an accessible addition to any Xbox gamer’s library. This means subscribers won’t need to purchase it separately when it releases.
For those who haven’t played the original, trying it before the new game launches is a great way to understand why the series has such a dedicated following. The gameplay still holds up surprisingly well despite its age.
Key Features of Xbox Series X and Series S
The Xbox Series X and Series S consoles offer distinct features designed for different types of gamers. These next-generation systems share core technologies while differing in resolution capabilities, storage space, and physical design.
Technical Specifications
The Xbox Series X stands as Microsoft’s flagship console with impressive hardware. It features a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU with 8 cores running at 3.8 GHz and 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM. Storage comes in the form of a 1TB SSD, giving players plenty of space for games.
The Series S takes a more compact approach. This all-digital console (no disc drive) includes the same CPU architecture but with slightly lower clock speeds. It comes with 512 GB of storage and 10 GB of GDDR6 RAM.
Both consoles feature the innovative Xbox Velocity Architecture, which enables:
- Quick Resume functionality
- Faster loading times
- Seamless game switching
The Series X weighs more and has a larger form factor compared to the slim, lightweight Series S.
Backward Compatibility
Xbox excels in preserving gaming history through extensive backward compatibility. Both Series X and Series S play thousands of games from previous Xbox generations, including titles from the original Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.
Many older games receive automatic enhancements when played on the new hardware. These improvements include faster loading times, more stable frame rates, and Auto HDR, which adds high dynamic range effects to games that didn’t originally support it.
The Series X offers backward compatibility with physical discs from previous generations, allowing players to use their existing game collection. Since the Series S lacks a disc drive, only digital versions of backward compatible games can be played on this console.
Microsoft continues to expand the backward compatible library through regular updates. This commitment ensures players can enjoy classics alongside new releases.
Performance and Graphics
The performance difference between the two consoles is significant. The Series X targets native 4K gaming at 60 FPS, with some titles supporting up to 120 FPS. Its powerful GPU delivers 12 teraflops of processing power, enabling ray tracing and other advanced visual effects.
The Series S focuses on 1080p and 1440p resolutions, though it can upscale to 4K. With 4 teraflops of GPU power, it still handles most modern games well but may run them at lower resolutions or frame rates than the Series X.
Both consoles support:
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) – reduces screen tearing
- Auto Low Latency Mode – minimizes input lag
- DirectX Ray Tracing – creates realistic lighting effects
Game load times are remarkably fast on both systems thanks to the custom SSD technology. The Xbox Velocity Architecture enables these quick load times and smooth performance across both console models.
Game Genres and Their Appeal
Xbox Series X/S offers games across many popular genres, each with unique features that attract different players. Many gamers enjoy switching between genres based on their mood or gaming goals.
Action and Adventure
Action and adventure games remain among the most popular choices for Xbox Series X/S owners. Titles like “Starfield” and “Halo Infinite” showcase the console’s power with stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
These games often feature exciting combat systems and engaging storylines. Players can explore vast open worlds or follow more linear paths filled with challenges and discoveries.
Microsoft’s flagship series “Halo” continues to define the action genre on Xbox. The Master Chief’s adventures benefit from enhanced frame rates and improved loading times on the Series X/S hardware.
Third-person adventures like “Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order” give players a different perspective on the action. Many Xbox gamers prefer third-person gaming for its improved field of view and character visibility.
Role-playing Games
RPGs on Xbox Series X/S offer deep storytelling and character progression systems. Games like “Elden Ring” have earned spots as must-plays on the platform with their rich worlds and challenging gameplay.
Players can choose between western RPGs with open-ended choices or Japanese RPGs with more focused narratives. Both styles benefit from the enhanced processing power of the new consoles.
Character customization options in modern RPGs let gamers create unique heroes for their adventures. Skills, equipment, and dialogue choices shape how the story unfolds.
The Xbox Game Pass subscription adds tremendous value for RPG fans, offering classics and new releases at no extra cost. This makes trying different RPG styles much more affordable than buying each game separately.
Multiplayer and Co-op Experiences
Multiplayer games bring Xbox communities together through competitive or cooperative play. Popular titles range from battle royales to team-based shooters to sports simulations.
Co-op adventures like “Gears 5” allow friends to tackle story campaigns together. The Series X/S hardware supports smoother split-screen experiences than previous generations.
Online multiplayer benefits from Xbox’s robust network infrastructure. Quick match-making and stable connections enhance competitive gameplay in titles like “Halo Infinite” multiplayer.
Cross-platform play has become increasingly common, allowing Xbox gamers to play with friends on PC or other consoles. This feature has greatly expanded the available player base for many popular games.
Game Pass Ultimate subscribers gain access to EA Play titles, adding more multiplayer options. Sports games and battlefield simulators round out the multiplayer offerings on Series X/S.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gaming on Xbox Series X and Series S brings different experiences based on your console choice. Many players have questions about the best games and how they perform on each system.
What are the top-rated adventure games available for both Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S?
Elden Ring stands as one of the best adventure games on both Xbox Series consoles. This challenging open-world game from FromSoftware offers stunning environments and intense combat.
Starfield, Bethesda’s space exploration RPG, performs well on both systems. The game features hundreds of planets to explore and a compelling main storyline.
Baldur’s Gate 3 brings the classic D&D experience to Xbox with amazing character development and branching storylines. The game runs smoothly on both consoles, though the Series X version has faster loading times.
Which Xbox Series S games are currently considered the best by the gaming community?
Forza Horizon 5 is widely praised on Xbox Series S for its beautiful Mexican landscapes and smooth gameplay. The game maintains excellent visual quality despite the console’s lower power.
Halo Infinite shows off the Series S capabilities with its fluid combat and multiplayer modes. The game was built to run well on both Xbox systems.
Indie titles like Hi-Fi Rush and Pentiment are perfect matches for the Series S. These games don’t demand excessive hardware power but offer unique art styles and gameplay.
What are the must-play Xbox Series X titles available through Game Pass?
Starfield is a Game Pass day-one release that takes full advantage of the Series X hardware. The space RPG features minimal loading screens and impressive visual effects on the more powerful console.
Halo Infinite’s campaign and free multiplayer mode are available through Game Pass. The Series X version runs at a higher resolution with better lighting effects.
Forza Horizon 5 showcases stunning 4K visuals with ray tracing on Series X through Game Pass. The racing game loads almost instantly on the premium console.
Which games are exclusive to the Xbox Series X and not available on the Series S?
There are no games that are exclusive only to Xbox Series X and completely unavailable on Series S. Both consoles play the same game library.
The difference lies in performance and visual quality. Series X games typically run at higher resolutions (often 4K versus 1440p on Series S) with better graphics settings.
Some games with physical disc versions can only be played on Series X since Series S lacks a disc drive. This means disc-based games from your existing collection require the Series X to play.
What are the latest critically acclaimed games for Xbox Series X and Series S?
Baldur’s Gate 3 recently arrived on Xbox to huge acclaim. Critics praise its deep storytelling and tactical combat systems on both consoles.
Starfield continues to receive updates that improve performance across both systems. The latest expansions add even more content to this already massive game.
Indie hits like Sea of Stars and Dave the Diver have found success on the Xbox platform. These games run almost identically on both Series consoles due to their less demanding graphics.
How does the gaming performance compare between Xbox Series X and Series S?
Xbox Series X targets 4K resolution gaming at 60fps for most titles. The more powerful GPU and additional RAM allow for better textures, lighting effects, and draw distances.
Series S aims for 1080p to 1440p resolution at 60fps. Many games automatically adjust settings to maintain smooth performance on the less powerful hardware.
Load times are slightly faster on Series X due to its improved specs, but both consoles benefit from quick resume features that let you switch between multiple games almost instantly.
