With both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X on a launch collision course later in 2020, the console wars continue to heat up between both Sony and Microsoft. Earlier, Sony confirmed that the DualShock4 controller isn't going to be compatible with the PS5 largely due to the new features inside of the DualSense wireless controller. Upon hearing this, one Microsoft employee couldn't resist throwing shade at Sony and its decision.
On Twitter, Samuel Bateman, who currently serves as the Marketing Lead for the UK branch for Microsoft, posted a series of Tweets heavily influenced by the early PS5 controller announcement. His initial Tweet reminded fans that all Xbox one controllers are forward compatible with the Xbox Series X including Elite Series 2, SCUF Controllers, and more.
However, Bateman continued on from there and went on to confirm that the new Xbox Series X controller can also be used on the Xbox One. This lesser known fact is just one example of Microsoft's effort to make sure its devices are both forward and backward compatible. He also went on to reveal that many third party headsets are also utilizing this compatibility, ensuring that most players won't need to upgrade their hardware on the Series X.
This compatibility push shouldn't be too surprising from Microsoft as the company has already done a ton of work to ease players through the console transition process. Services like Game Pass are looking to be an absolute steal and currently without equal considering that all first party games are being added to the service, promising to save players plenty of money. Not only that, the Series X will be backward compatible with Xbox One as well.
The Smart Delivery system will also allow players to upgrade their Xbox One games to Xbox Series X versions completely for free. Not only does it include first party games like Halo: Infinite, Gears 5, and Sea of Thieves, but third party titles are also being continually added to the service. Already, highly anticipated games like Cyberpunk 2077, Assassin's Creed Valhalla, and Marvel's Avengers have confirmed a free upgrade for Xbox players with more on the way.
At this point in time, Sony doesn't appear to have any answers for what Microsoft is doing with its next gen console. While Sony is pushing the power of its SSD, fans continue to hold out hope that a similar Smart Delivery system will get announced. So far, Sony has yet to commit to a wide spread upgrade plan, only going as far as saying it plans to "flexibly" support PS4 to PS5 upgrades putting the onus on publishers to decide.
The Xbox Series X is set to launch Holiday 2020.