Xbox Series X - First Impressions

Table of Contents

• Xbox Series X - First Impressions
• Xbox series X SSD – Quick Resume is a godsend
• Xbox Series X controller – more than evolution

Xbox Series X controller – more than evolution

The new Microsoft controller was tested by a few people in our team, and the reaction was the same every time. At first glance, it looks virtually the same as the previous one. It was enough to grab it to find that it actually feels a lot different. Indeed, the announcements about tweaking the controller's ergonomics were not just marketing cheap talk on Microsoft's part.

It's the same, but different.

While it's not immediately apparent, the Xbox Series X/S pad feels slightly smaller than its predecessors. Those accustomed to DualShock will feel at home, but fans of bulkier controllers will need some time to get used to it. The changes are not big, we certainly won't call them revolutionary, but they are very apparent.

Everyone we asked was very pleased with the materials. In particular, the rough finish of the underside provides really nice grip. This addresses the problem that older pads had, including the DualShock, making the controller firmly fit in hands even if they get a little sweaty. The triggers and bumpers were finished with the same kind of material. The triggers were also revamped a little: they've got a stronger click and the action seems a little faster.

The new D-pad is perhaps the most visible, but not the most important of the changes.

One of the most visible changes to the Xbox Series X/S controller is the new D-pad. It's almost identical to the one featured in Xbox One Elite Controller, which is certainly good news. The only thing missing are the ring finger and pinky triggers, but you can't have it all.

The controller's power source remains the same. The default solution for most players will therefore be AA batteries or a USB-C cable. We will also have the possibility to purchase a separate battery, designed specifically for this hardware. Too bad it's not included by default.

Looking back, it's easy to evaluate the changes that happened over the years.

Another new feature is the button, whose functionality is well known to users of PlayStation. It allows you to take a screenshot (by tapping), record a piece of gameplay (by holding), or review the previously recorded material and share it with your friends (double tap). Personally, I've used the Share button on the PS4 extremely rarely, and I don't expect that to change with the arrival of the next generation. What are your impressions?

The new gamepad improves a few things compared to its predecessor, so it's sure worth waiting for.