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Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority
So, after months (or years) of waiting, you’ve finally got your hands on a brand new Xbox Series X or Series S. Congratulations! But where do you go from here?
We’ve put together this quick guide for new Xbox owners to get their new systems up and running. You’re surely biting the nail to jump into some next-gen games, so let’s get started!
Save your games in the cloud
Xbox Series S (top) and Xbox One S (bottom)
Credit: Ryan-Thomas Shaw / Android Authority
If you are updating from an Xbox One console, there is a critical step you need to take before unplugging it and storing it in a closet somewhere to forget about it. Those without a next-gen Xbox can move on to the next section.
One of the best things about Microsoft’s approach is its focus on backward compatibility. You can play just about any game from all previous Xbox generations, but that doesn’t mean your saves agree.
Read also: Save on an official wireless controller and more of the best Xbox deals
All games that you plan to continue playing should be saved to the cloud unless you want to start over. The good news is that this happens automatically while you are connected to Xbox Live. Your save is synced every time you leave a game. You don’t even need an Xbox Live Gold subscription.
If for some reason you haven’t had your console connected to the internet, connect it once more and start your games just in case. You can also check (or delete) your files saved in the cloud from the start menu. Navigate to My games and apps, press the menu button in your controller, then select Manage games and add-ons. You can view all the saved data by checking the Saved data box.
Skip the Xbox One and upgrade from an Xbox 360? You may need to activate cloud saves manually. Learn more about how to do it here.
Configure and update your console
Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority
If you haven’t set up your console yet before reading this, congratulations on your patience. But now it’s time to open the box and plug everything in. Once connected, the console will need to be updated before it can be used. And that may take a few hours.
Before plugging it in, you need to take a moment to find out where the console will live. Sure, you can put it down and call it good, but that’s just asking for damage from dust, spills, or overzealous pets.
Both the Xbox Series X and the S can be placed horizontally or vertically, but they need some room to breathe. Microsoft recommends leaving a minimum of 4-6 inches of clearance on each side (including the top). You should also avoid placing other objects on or near the console itself. Enclosed cabinets are a big no-no too.
The easiest way to set up your new Xbox is with the Xbox app on Android and iOS.
It’s also worth noting that you should use the 2 meter ultra high speed HDMI cable included in the box. This cable is required for 4K 120fps output on the XSX. Using an uncertified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable may result in poorer video performance. The Xbox Series S is less demanding and uses a standard high-speed HDMI cable, which is easier to replace in a pinch.
Once everything is connected, the easiest way to set up your console is with the Xbox app for Android or iOS. Follow the instructions on the app and your new Xbox console and you’ll be done in no time. Or rather, update your console in no time. Take advantage of that time to read the rest of this guide!
Adjust your TV and screen settings
New Xbox consoles can deliver incredible visuals, but only if your TV can handle them. Depending on the make and model, you may need to adjust your TV settings to accommodate higher resolutions, higher frame rates, or even special features like HDR. It may even be the case that you need to connect your console to a specific HDMI port for the best performance.
Fortunately, the Xbox makes it easy to see what you’re working with. If you navigate to the TV and display options in the settings, then choose 4K TV details, it will show what is currently possible with your TV. From there, you’ll have to look at your Xbox and TV settings for optimal visual performance.
And if you’re gaming on a 1080p 60Hz TV or monitor, it’s time to think about an upgrade.
Get some games
One of the downsides to having a console close to its release date is that you can’t take advantage of any bundle that includes required games. Of course, you can still play the best Xbox One games thanks to backward compatibility. You can download them right away, insert the disk, or even just connect an external hard drive with your games already installed.
To get the most out of your next-gen hardware, you’ll need some next-gen games. It will be a while before any major titles of their own like Halo Infinite and Perfect Dark come out, but there are plenty of XSX-optimized games available today. See the best of them (and what’s to come soon) in the article below.
Read also: Best Xbox Series X / S games: it’s time for next-gen games
If you have no idea where to start, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is still one of the best deals on games. For $ 15 a month (or less if you convert from an existing Xbox Live subscription), you get access to over 100 triple-A games from Microsoft’s own studios, EA, and more.
The selection is truly incredible and covers the best of the Xbox One era and more. Also, all future Microsoft titles are added from day one. It is one of the best deals in games and the value continues to grow as time goes on. If you don’t need the game library, you will still need Xbox Live Gold to play online, which costs $ 9.99 a month alone.
Install your favorite streaming apps
Microsoft has always wanted its consoles to be a one-stop-shop for all its entertainment needs. Now that streaming is the primary form of entertainment for many households, that dream may finally come true.
Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV, HBO Max, CBS All Access, and many, many more are available for free. You can also find the most popular music apps, including Spotify, Pandora, and others.
Read also: The best video streaming services worth your time and money
It’s also worth noting that while the Xbox Series S doesn’t support 4K output for games, it does support 4K output for streaming content. Rest assured, you can enjoy 4K HDR content on both variants of the new Xbox consoles!
Grab a second controller and other accessories
Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority
Couch co-op is one of the defining characteristics of console gaming, but if you want your friends and family to get in on the action, you’ll need a second controller. You have a few options here, starting with the standard Xbox Wireless Controller, which costs around $ 60.
But if you can afford it, it’s worth spending the extra money on an Xbox Elite Series 2 controller. It’s the ultimate customizable controller, allowing you to change the joysticks, triggers, and rear paddles to suit your preferences. Leave the standard controller for your two player! Either way, grab a Play and Charge kit to avoid paying for batteries in the future.
Read also: The best Xbox Series X and Series S accessories
The new Xbox Series X comes with 1TB of onboard storage, but you’ll eventually have to invest in more. There you have two main options. The first is the official Seagate expansion card, which adds a whopping 1TB of storage that matches the speed of the integrated SSD. If that’s too expensive, an external hard drive will give you a cheaper storage boost, but without the incredible load times.
Check out more of our Xbox Series X / S coverage below!
