Next-gen consoles have promised quite a few things, including stunning graphics and overall better performance. However, the overall sizes and specs of both the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S have some gamers wondering. But, with the official launch of both consoles, fans can now see what they can really do.
As with the PS4 and Xbox One, hard drive space is limited. And, as with past-gen games, game file sizes don't seem to be getting smaller. And when the Xbox Series X only gives players around 800 GB of room, space is at a premium.
Though basically fresh out of the box, the Xbox Series X debuted with quite a few launch titles. Other games, such as Cyberpunk 2077, have not yet launched, but have revealed their file sizes already. Which games on the Xbox Series X have the biggest file sizes?
10 The Witcher 3: ~40.04 GB
This series continues to reign as one of the best open-world games ever made. Like Grand Theft Auto V, it maintains a loyal fandom with new fans added every day despite being years old. However, it still occupies quite a large plot on an Xbox Series X hard drive.
Due in part to its extensive world and DLCs, the game can up to around 40 GB of space. But most fans agree that it is worth it to experience all that The Witcher has to offer. The Xbox Series X version of the game will also not feature load screens during fast travel.
9 Assassin's Creed Valhalla: ~45 GB
The latest game in the Assassin's Creed franchise sets players in the Viking era as Eivor. With great early showings before launch, the game seems to be performing well so far. Its impressive graphics include pristine water, facial textures, realistic fur, and more. But that comes at the cost of around 45 GB of hard drive space.
Veterans of the franchise will say that this cost is worth it due to the fact that many AC games tend to be "one and done." Though the last game, Assassin's Creed Odyssey, had a huge world to explore, many players went through the game quickly.
8 Sea Of Thieves: ~47 GB
The plundering, sea adventuring title from Rare adds new players every day. The game's incredible water physics and MMO feel has captivated many new players to the genre. Players can also now have unique pets aboard their ships, adding yet another appealing facet.
Though Sea of Thieves has an open-world, it only takes up 17 GB on the Xbox Series S. The Xbox Series X, however, requires 47 GB of space instead. But the title works well for a couch co-op among friends — something highly valued in a time where isolation is more common.
7 FIFA 21: ~50 GB
Unlike another sports game on this list, FIFA 21 seems to have maintained its fan base. The football/soccer-based game showcases many notable players with impressive graphical similarity. They even recently made pop star Dua Lipa a playable character.
The game's file size got revealed in August of 2020 and it requires around 50 GB of hard drive space. Though the game sold fewer units than its predecessor, the game might be small enough to score a spot on most people's hard drives.
6 Gears 5: ~64 GB
Gears 5 originally released in September of 2019. But the Xbox Series X release showcases a totally new look for Marcus Fenix. Surprise: it's Dave Bautista. The actor lent his likeness to the game and recorded all of Fenix's voice lines for replacement if fans want it.
The Xbox Series X version of the game promises a New Game Plus mode, improved FPS rates, extra difficulties, and a few other things. The game will take up just 39 GB on the Xbox Series S and 64 GB on the Xbox Series X.
5 Destiny 2 Beyond Light: ~65.7 GB
Through all of Bungie's troubles to find a home for their space looter shooter, the gunplay in Destiny has remained solid. However, the studio's recent choice to "sunset" or retire many weapons did not sit well with fans. Despite that, the latest update known as Beyond Light occupies about 65 GB of space.
Many players continue to log on every day, adding to the more MMO feel the studio seems to be pivoting toward for the game. This relatively low file size might not stay that low as new updates are bound to add more GB.
4 Cyberpunk 2077: ~70 GB
Cyberpunk 2077 has been more and more hyped as it drew closer to release. Unfortunately for players, the studio delayed the release to help avoid something known as "crunch." That's a whole can of drama aside from the fact that the game takes up about 70 GB on the Xbox Series X.
The game promises unique experiences, lush environments, and incredible graphics. If Cyberpunk 2077 lives up to all of the hype, that 70 GB may be the best investment players make with hard drive space.
3 Dirt 5: ~72.5 GB
Driving games may be looked down upon by some people, but they offer an outlet other games just can't. From racing to rally to just cruising around Route 66, driving games have really grown over the years. Dirt 5 is the next step in that journey.
Players can choose from 63 trucks, cars, and buggies to take all over the world for races. The game also features 13 classes and multiple game modes. Reviewers also say that the game performs beautifully on the Xbox Series X. However, it does take up an impressive 72 GB of space on the Series X. Series S owners still have to sacrifice 56 GB.
2 NBA 2k21: ~121.7 GB
A long celebrated sports series, NBA 2K21 has left a sour taste in some fans' mouths. Problems like not having a rookie class, unskippable ads, and female players not being allowed into The City are just a few of the issues. However, the game itself is not the only problem.
Xbox Series X owners are lucky in that the game only takes up 121 GB of space. For PS5 owners, that already high number jumps to 150 GB. Many fans are asking the question, "is it worth it?"
1 Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War: ~190 GB
Call of Duty games are notorious for eating up hard drive space like a kid does candy. The latest entry into the franchise, Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, is no exception. In fact, it might even be the worst offender so far.
The new game clocks in at an alarming 190 GB in size. That means this game takes up almost 1/4th the total available space on an Xbox Series X. Preliminary reviews of the game seem very positive, so perhaps the space sacrifice is worthwhile.