Microsoft recently dropped an influx of Xbox Series X details, providing further insight into hardware specifications, including plans to deliver 12 teraflops (TF) of processing capability. The reveal shows a console with over double the graphics power of the current Xbox One X, further bolstering its claims to deliver up to 8K resolution or 120 frames-per-second (FPS) gameplay. That couples the power with a new feature dubbed “Smart Delivery,” which aims to streamline the shift into the next generation.
The philosophy of Smart Deliver is simple: buy your Xbox games once for versions of Xbox One and Xbox Series X. With platform holders blurring the lines into the next hardware milestone, one license provides access on current devices, with a free upgrade Xbox Series X versions.
Xbox Series X Smart Delivery: Everything we know (so far)
While next-generation consoles traditionally result in harsh splits from former hardware, both Microsoft and Sony are taking a reworked approach into 2020. The Xbox Series X further advocates cross-generation features, spearheaded by backward compatibility and an accompanying new technology dubbed “Smart Delivery.”
Microsoft revealed Smart Delivery as a solution to help players receive the best available versions of games, scaling from Xbox One to Xbox Series X. Titles that support Smart Delivery will provide free graphical upgrades on Xbox Series X, without the requirement to buy a new version of the game. That means if you buy Halo Infinite for Xbox One at launch, an upgraded Xbox Series X version awaits for the upcoming Xbox flagship at no additional cost.
The one-time purchase eliminates the need to buy multiple versions of games across generations, as formerly seen with Xbox 360 and Xbox One. Microsoft will provide the option of Smart Delivery to all developers and publishers, although games aren’t mandated to support the feature. But as the next Xbox console approaches, consumers can take comfort in knowing some games will automatically remain at the forefront when you decide to upgrade.
Buy games once, and play them on Xbox One AND Xbox Series X.
It also remains unclear how the Xbox One and Xbox Series X will implement Smart Delivery. With Xbox increasingly favoring digital game distribution, Microsoft hasn’t clarified whether both digital and physical discs will support the feature — or whether it’ll be tied to a digital account license.
Smart Delivery expands on Microsoft’s current Xbox One X philosophy, which saw some past titles upgraded with free visual enhancements. The 4K assets were automatically downloaded when an Xbox One X was detected, ensuring the best experience on the console. Smart Delivery brings the concept to a broader spectrum of devices, easing the transition for supported titles.
List of Xbox Smart Delivery games so far
Smart Delivery is offered to developers as an optional addition to Xbox Series X titles, meaning not all will support the feature. Microsoft already pledged support for the upcoming Xbox Game Studios titles spanning Xbox One and Xbox Series X, including Halo Infinite and potentially extending to Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 and Everwild. CD Projekt RED also announced planned support for Cyberpunk 2077, placing it among the first on board with the program.
We wrapped up the confirmed list of Xbox Series X Smart Delivery games so far below.
Microsoft propels Xbox into the next generation with Halo Infinite, the latest entry in the defining shooter series. Continuing the story of Master Chief and backed by a new purpose-built engine, it’s the flagship of Xbox Series X launch titles. With all cross-generation Xbox Game Studios projects committed to Smart Delivery, Halo Infinite kicks off the feature.
Cyberpunk 2077 wraps the generation with its dystopian metropolis, already shaping up to be among the most anticipated Xbox titles in recent memory. This futuristic open-world RPG appears brimming with possibilities, working up the criminal career ladder through combat and diplomacy. The developer, CD Projekt RED, is the first third-party studio committed to Smart Delivery support.
Expect new Smart Delivery games to be announced during the months ahead, as Microsoft targets its holiday 2020 launch window for Xbox Series X.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Soak up some good
Cap off your week with a bit of good tech news
It’s a tough world right now, which can be a little overwhelming at times. If you need a break, take in some of the better news from the tech world. Today, we have a Zoombot that helped one man ditch meetings, giving back with Bing, and more.
LIVE PODCAST
Join us for the latest Windows Central Video Podcast
We’re live with the Windows Central Video Podcast today at 2:30pm ET, make sure you’re there!
Trade with the Piglins
Minecraft’s ‘Nether’ update: Everything you need to know (update)
At Minecon on September 28, 2019, Microsoft unveiled the latest Minecraft update, which will refresh the fiery world of the Nether. Here’s what we know so far.
Cut price racing
How to go sim racing on your Xbox without breaking the bank
Want to take your Xbox One racing experience up a notch (or two) without spending your life savings? Here’s how to build a good racing rig on a tighter budget.
