Launch of Xbox Series X and Series S

On November 10, 2020, Microsoft officially launched the Xbox Series X and Series S, ushering in a new generation of console gaming amid the global challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Series X, branded as the most powerful console Microsoft had ever built, featured advanced hardware capabilities such as 4K gaming, a custom SSD for rapid load times, and ray tracing technology. Alongside it, the more affordable Series S offered a streamlined, all-digital alternative, making next-gen performance more accessible. Together, the duo reflected Microsoft's strategy to cater to a broader range of players while emphasizing ecosystem over exclusivity. The launch also underscored Microsoft’s evolving vision of gaming. Rather than focusing solely on hardware, the company leaned heavily into services like Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming via xCloud, and cross-platform play. Despite hardware shortages and shipping delays due to pandemic-related disruptions, the launch marked a strong start for the Xbox Series consoles, with demand outpacing supply in many markets. This release signified more than just new hardware—it was the beginning of a software- and service-centric future that redefined what a console generation could mean.