Xbox Series X just handed PS5 a major victory

Xbox Series Ten just handed PS5 a major victory

(Prototype credit: Microsoft/Sony)

The Xbox Serial Ten is confirmed to release this November, simply information technology'll do so without its most anticipated sectional. And that may have just handed the PS5 the victory in a console war that's already looking overwhelmingly in Sony's favor.

On August 11, developer 343 Industries announced that its delaying the long-awaited Halo Infinite to 2021 in gild to have more time to "deliver a Halo game experience that meets our vision." And while 343's conclusion is understandable on a number of levels, it could give gamers i more reason to pick the PS5 over the Xbox Serial X this holiday season.

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The delay of Halo Infinite shouldn't come as a huge surprise to those that accept been following recent Xbox events. The game's July gameplay reveal was met with mixed reception, largely from those who felt that Halo Infinite's graphics don't look similar those of a true next-gen game. 343 Industries also cited COVID-related development issues as one reason backside the delay, making Halo Space simply one of many products whose release engagement has been affected past the global pandemic.

So while Halo Space'south delay will probable upshot in a better terminal product, it leaves a gaping pigsty in the Xbox Series X launch lineup. While Microsoft is quick to signal out that the Xbox Serial X will play "thousands" of games at launch cheers to backwards compatibility, many of its hotly anticipated exclusives such as Forza Motorsport and Fable 4 are likely years away.

On top of that, most major titles coming to the panel this fall — including Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Watch Dogs: Legion and Destiny ii — are also leap for PS5. When you couple that with the fact that the PS5 has at least ane major exclusive set for this vacation with Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Sony'due south side by side-gen panel may end up being the i to buy for the vast bulk of gamers looking to upgrade this fall.

The PS5 was already shaping up to be the victor of this vacation, with a recent survey revealing that fans are more likely to option up Sony's console than Microsoft'south new system past an overwhelming 84% to 15%.

In that location'south likewise a example to exist fabricated that Microsoft hasn't truly given fans a reason to choice up a Series Ten. About major Microsoft titles releasing over the adjacent few years are as well slated to come to Xbox Ane and PC, and will too be playable over the deject thanks to Xbox Game Laissez passer streaming. The Xbox Series Ten has slightly stronger specs than the PS5 on paper, merely Microsoft would be wise to hold one last showcase to reveal what that power truly translates to during real-world gaming — especially without a Halo game to boost the system at launch.

Game delays are incredibly common, and 343 Industries deserves props for prioritizing the health of both its game and employees by pushing back Halo Infinite. But without a major launch exclusive, the Xbox Serial X may have already lost still another battle to the PS5.

Mike Andronico is Senior Writer at CNNUnderscored and was formerly Managing Editor at Tom's Guide. When not at work, you can commonly catch him playing Street Fighter, devouring Twitch streams and trying to convince people that Hawkeye is the all-time Avenger.