The wait is finally over — Microsoft has just revealed their upcoming next-gen console titled Xbox Series X! The whole announcement was somewhat of a surprise, but a grand reveal at the 2019 Game Awards does make a lot of sense in the grand scheme of things.

Not only did we not expect a reveal this soon, but no one could have foreseen the amount of detail that was presented. Simply put, Microsoft isn’t fooling around and they want to create as big of an edge over Sony as they possibly can. Such an endeavor starts way before any console launch or ship date — it starts with the announcement.

Behold, the next generation of Xbox:

Microsoft Delivers

First of all, it’s hard not to be surprised by the console’s footprint. It certainly doesn’t resemble any mainstream console in history. This is fascinating design by all means, and it certainly looks more like a small-form-factor PC rather than a standard gaming console. The design aesthetic is spectacular too — no fancy bells and whistles, just clean geometry, with an emphasis on function over form. That’s not to say that the Xbox Series X isn’t beautiful. On the contrary.

On the front there’s a Blu-ray slot, two separate buttons (one for “Power” and one for “Eject”) and a USB port. Finally, the shining white Xbox logo at the top certainly adds to the overall monumentality of the device. Visually speaking, this “monolithic” aesthetic is a fascinating design and it — combined with PC-like hardware — certainly blurs the line between PC cases and dedicated gaming consoles. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s definitely a looker.

The Xbox controller also underwent a couple of changes. Now there’s a dedicated “Share” button along with an updated directional pad — great if you’re the type of person who shies away from analog sticks or is into fighting games. The controller is a bit smaller than the previous ones and it has been redesigned and reshaped to fit an even broader range of users. The updated controller will be compatible with existing Xbox One consoles as well as any PC running Windows 10.

Fortunately, Microsoft didn’t want to focus solely on aesthetics, with Phil Spencer saying the console will be no louder than a standard Xbox One X. Seeing how the Series X promises a huge increase in power and performance, that’s quite a feat. With up to four times better CPU performance and double the GPU power, this fascinating machine will certainly offer PC-like framerates and graphics for a fraction of the cost.

Alongside the Xbox Series X, Microsoft also announced the second installment in the Senua series: “Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II.” The trailer is supposedly running in-engine which — if true — is downright awe-inspiring given the level of detail and visual fidelity. Take a look for yourself:

The first Senua was a spectacular video game. Some might even call it a one of a kind experience. The sequel, however, builds on that harrowing world in new and fascinating ways.

The console itself will come with Auto Low Latency Mode and Dynamic Latency Input which should make your gaming adventures as responsive as possible. Microsoft is also designing the console with cloud gaming in mind. How that’ll pan out still remains to be seen, but the company’s xCloud service is already being touted as the “next big thing” in gaming.

We also know that Microsoft plans on shipping two variants of their upcoming console. The first will be a fully spec’d-out console, with the second one being noticeably less powerful and more oriented towards digital (discless) gaming.

Backwards Compatibility

The Xbox Series X will be fully backwards compatible. Microsoft is also looking to fully enable upcoming buyers by supporting cross-generation game saves and achievements, especially on first-party titles (starting with Halo Infinite).

Xbox Series X will be available for purchase during the 2020 holiday season. Right now, there’s still a ton of information missing, but it’s hard not to get excited for the things to come. You can expect Microsoft to announce a plethora of different titles and IPs over the coming months. If you’re into consoles, you’re probably gleaming with joy as we’re finally getting a glimpse at the future of console gaming.