Xbox Series X now has a leaked launch date (Updated)

Update, August 12, 2020 (01:15 PM ET): According to some newly leaked info from Tom Warren on Twitter, the Xbox Series X release date might specifically be November 6, 2020. This information comes from a photo of boxes that allegedly hold new Xbox controllers. The box has a sticker on it instructing retail associates to not open them before November 6.

Now, it’s possible that the date could refer to other situations. For example, it could be that accessories for the XBSX could hit store shelves before the actual console. This would suggest the console launch date would be after November 6. It also could be the other way around, which would mean the console could land earlier than that.

However, Microsoft did commit to an Xbox Series X release date in November, so this leaked info lines up with official statements. For now, pencil it into your calendar with a question mark.

Original article, August 11, 2020 (03:43 PM ET): Microsoft is finally ready to commit to a narrower Xbox Series X launch window than “holiday 2020,” although it comes with bad news for some of the company’s biggest fans.

The next-generation console is now slated to arrive in November. The company didn’t provide a specific date or any pricing. Still, this will at least help you plan your shopping schedule if the Series X is in your future.

Xbox Series X release date and game launch rumors

Don’t expect to pick up Halo Infinite at the same time, however. Microsoft has delayed 343’s first-person shooter to 2021 in a bid to provide the “most ambitious Halo game ever.” The company also committed to balancing the developers’ “well-being.” In other words, it wants to minimize the notorious crunch time in game development that can leave staff burned out.

The company instead focused on the 50-plus Series X-native titles that would ship before 2020 was over. This will include Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Dirt 5, and Watch Dogs: Legion. It also noted that over 40 existing Xbox One games would be optimized for Series X, including Destiny 2 and Madden NFL 21.

Read more: PlayStation 5 vs Xbox Series X

While the health of the 343 team is clearly important, this does leave Microsoft without an obvious tentpole game for the Series X debut. Many of the games it cited are third-party titles also coming to the PlayStation 5, and your choice of system may come down to backward compatibility with your existing library.

As it stands, you may be waiting a while for a more specific release date and pricing. Microsoft is effectively engaged in a game of chicken with Sony — neither wants to reveal details first lest their rival undercut them with a lower price or an earlier debut. You might not get more news until the companies have virtually no choice but to show their plans.