Just one day removed from announcing the Xbox Series S price and release date, Microsoft has confirmed the Xbox Series X price and release date as well. As announced by Microsoft, the Xbox Series X release date is November 10, with the next-generation console retailing for $499. Along with the Xbox Series X price and release date, though, Microsoft has also confirmed the date when fans can pre-order the new consoles.
As announced by Microsoft, pre-orders for both the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S will open on September 22 at various retailers worldwide. Those interested in pre-ordering can pay off the consoles right away, or sign up for the Xbox All Access program. Xbox All Access is similar to a phone plan, in that consumers can choose to pay a low monthly premium for 24 months for the consoles instead of buying them outright. However, it's worth pointing out that fans will ultimately pay more for the hardware this way, though it also comes with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
Now that Microsoft has confirmed the Xbox Series X pre-order date, release date, and price, more games are being confirmed for the system's launch. It's been confirmed that the Gears of War spin-off game Gears Tactics will launch for the consoles on day one, as will the upcoming Assassin's Creed Valhalla from Ubisoft. Assassin's Creed Valhalla was originally going to launch on November 17, but its release date was moved forward so it could be an Xbox launch title this holiday season.
Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see what else will be available for pre-order come September 22. It's possible that players will also get the chance to pre-order some Xbox Series X accessories that day as well, like the new Xbox controllers, for instance. However, it's worth pointing out that even if players can't get their hands on new Xbox controllers that regular Xbox One controllers are fully compatible with the Series X and capable of playing any of the games on the platform.
The other big news that was announced for Xbox today was the revelation that EA Play is now going to be part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For no additional cost, Game Pass subscribers have access to the EA Play library of games. This obviously sweetens the pot quite a bit, and should go a long way in making Xbox Game Pass Ultimate an even better deal for Xbox gamers.
Now that Microsoft has pulled the trigger on announcing the Xbox Series X pre-order date, price, and release date, it will be interesting to see how long Sony takes to follow suit. Hopefully PS5 price and release date information comes sooner rather than later.