For the gaming world and especially the Xbox fans, the Project Scorpio was probably the best and the most amazing news at the E3 2016. While Microsoft revealed some important things about the new version of their flagship gaming console, it still kept enough things under the fold to keep the interest of the fans alive. Right after the Xbox conference got over; there were hundreds of questions in the air with ZERO answers available. Luckily, our team was able to come up with few explanations (with the very limited info we had at our disposal) that will answer most of the questions you have on your mind with respect to the Xbox Scorpio! Here we go!
What is Project Scorpio?
After the release of the Xbox one and the fair response it got from the market, Microsoft wanted to come up with something that would BLOW your mind. First, there were speculations about a lot of things that Microsoft would do for a better experience like increase the resources available, improve the graphics, better sound output, and everything else predictive BUT then there was this article published by Microsoft which talked about the next console being the “Best” gaming console ever. Finally, at the conference, the company uncovered everything and revealed that the new Xbox will have 4K capabilities, VR support, and HDR content. Put all these together in a powerful machine and you have the Project Scorpio.
When will it be available?
At the conference, Microsoft mentioned Holidays 2017 and since the company follows the US calendar, the new console should be available somewhere around Christmas next year or maybe from October when holiday shopping starts. However, the console might be available sooner or later depending upon as Microsoft works towards it.
Will Scorpio be as good as a Gaming PC?
Computers have been boasting of all the features that the Scorpio WILL have. So, the PC master race is already way ahead in this regard. By the time, Microsoft comes out with the new Xbox; PCs would have moved a lot ahead which will again make the console a little outdated as compared to the PC. However, if Microsoft is calling it the ultimate gaming machine, it will for sure have something cool within it. Since there is no technical specification available to anyone at the moment, it is hard to say if it will match the performance of a Gaming PC costing the same as the Scorpio.
How much will it cost?
During the interview, Phil mentioned that the latest version of the Xbox will have a “premium price” tag which, in simpler terms means expensive. Considering the gameplay experience it is being aimed at (like 4K and VR) the console will bear a good price tag. The last Xbox was priced at 400$ and since this one packs like 4 Xbox ones in one, we are speculating a price tag of somewhere around 700$. Time to start saving!
Should I get the Scorpio if I don’t own a 4K TV?
In one word – NO! The new console has been designed for the 4K experience and if your TV does not have enough power to render the output Xbox Scorpio will give out, buying it is totally useless. We are not just speaking this technically, even Microsoft said the same. That being said, you will be able to see something better even on a standard TV but that will be because the Scorpio packs in ample power. Finally, if you can save enough to get a 4K TV as well as the Scorpio, do get this baby!
Is VR confirmed?
Honestly speaking, Microsoft did not make a commitment on VR but it did mention it a few times. Another reason we are expecting Scorpio to be VR compatible is the fact that Fallout 4 for VR is on its way with the release of this mighty console. However, we are still not sure if the console will come with a VR device or the consumers will have to buy a separate dedicated device. Whatever be the case, there is surely something VR on the horizon with Project Scorpio.
Will I be able to play my Xbox One games?
Luckily for all of us, Xbox Scorpio will be forward and backward compatible. Microsoft mentioned that all the games for Xbox one will be playable on Xbox Scorpio. However, since these games are not designed for 4K, you will not notice anything special. The company will also enable developers to upgrade the existing content to 4K quality to make use of the power of the Scorpio. This will also strengthen the Company’s initiative of Play Anywhere which will enable you to play all the games on all the Microsoft platforms. Hopefully, Microsoft won’t back down on this when the Scorpio is released!
Finally, is it worth buying? If you have the money, yes it is! The 4K experience and HDR content combined with the gameplay Xbox has are totally worth every penny. Don’t forget to add the cost of the 4K TV though.