Xbox Series S will play Xbox One S versions of Xbox One games but with improvements

Xbox Series S will play Xbox One S versions of Xbox One games but with improvements

By Sean Carey, 14 Sep 2020
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Microsoft has clarified that the Xbox Series S will not run Xbox One X enhanced versions of backwards compatible games. Instead, the machine will play Xbox One S versions of games, but with Xbox Series S enhancements instead.

Following a report from Digital Foundry that speculated the Xbox Series S would not play Xbox One X enhanced titles due to the next-gen console having 2GB less ram than an Xbox One X (10GB vs 12GB), a clarification was given to VGC who quizzed Microsoft on the issue.

"Xbox Series S was designed to be the most affordable next-generation console and play next-generation games at 1440P at 60fps," a Microsoft spokesperson said.

"To deliver the highest quality backwards compatible experience consistent with the developer's original intent, the Xbox Series S runs the Xbox One S version of backward compatible games while applying improved texture filtering, higher and more consistent frame rates, faster load times and Auto HDR."

The Xbox One X can run games such as Gears 5 and Halo: The Master Chief Collection at up to a 4K resolution with better frame rates and improved textures and lighting. The Xbox Series S is limited to a maximum 1440p resolution, so it makes sense that the next-gen console won't be playing Xbox One X enhanced versions of games. Instead, Xbox One and Xbox 360 backwards compatible titles played on the Series S will benefit from things like Auto HDR, more stable frame rates, and faster load times thanks to the applied improvements from the next-gen console.

The Xbox Series S is due to launch on November 10th. The all-digital console is priced at $299/£249 with pre-orders opening on September 22nd.
Xbox Series XXbox One X Enhanced

Written by Sean Carey
Sean joined the team as a Staff Writer for both TrueAchievements and TrueTrophies in 2019. He games across all platforms and is always looking for an excuse to replay any of the Metal Gear Solid titles.