Microsoft's approach to the Xbox Series X can be summed up as how iteration can bring innovation. While the new console looks nothing like the OG Xbox, the Xbox 360, or the Xbox One that came before, it builds on the services, UI, controller layout, and more that everyone has loved about Xbox over the years. As such, though, when booting up the Xbox Series X, it can feel a lot like being on the Xbox One X.
It's supposed to, as that familiarity with the UI and all is a big factor for the Xbox ecosystem itself. The games are even shared, and there is indeed a case in waiting on purchasing the Xbox Series X (as well as the PS5). However, those who want the most "next-gen" gameplay, graphics, and more may very well get them with these new consoles and optimized games. We completed our review of Assassin's Creed Valhalla on the Xbox One X, and here's our thoughts after playing on the Xbox Series X.
Perhaps the biggest advantage is the Xbox Series X optimization itself. Hands down, Assassin's Creed Valhalla plays better on the Xbox Series X. Many have noted how the game appears to be quite buggy on current-gen platforms, but that doesn't really see to be the case. Whether Ubi spent more time with these consoles than the current-gen or what remains to be seen, but it is a noticeable difference. The ally AI, the character models, and more all avoid some of the issues we encountered on the Xbox One X.
Graphically, of course, there is quite the improvement. With the proper high-definition 4K TV, Assassin's Creed Valhalla was already a beauty, but it looks crisper, clearer, and more reactive on the Xbox Series X. Even those who don't put much stock in environments are simply forced to stop and take it in from time to time, as the Xbox Series X makes an already beautiful game that much more stunning. In general, these improvements alone seem to justify the price, but there's one thing about playing on the Xbox Series X that has proven to be one of its best features: quick resume.
Hearing about it and experiencing it for one's self are completely different. Hearing about a 6-second load time and being put back at the exact moment the player left sounds impressive, but dropping out of a game of Apex Legends and resuming Assassin's Creed is so fast it's hard to process. Trying to get some Mountain Dew or ruminate over losing that last match really just doesn't work with the game loading in so fast, and that's all for the best: a powerful console, powerful features, and a powerful game.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.