Microsoft announced that it will launch the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S on November 10, along with inexpensive All Access financing and Game Pass integration, plus a special bonus for Game Pass for PC and Ultimate: EA Play at no additional cost.

Right. Wow.

“On November 10, a new generation of console gaming begins,” Microsoft’s Phil Spencer announced. “That’s when our vision becomes reality with the most performant, immersive[,] and compatible next-generation console gaming experiences, and the freedom to play your games with your friends, anytime, anywhere.”

There’s a lot to digest here, so let me lay it all out.

First, both the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are launching on November 10, and you’ll be able to preorder either starting Tuesday, September 22.

The Xbox Series X will cost $499, as expected, and we already knew the Series S will cost $299.

If those prices are too much, you can pay for the console along with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription for just $24.99 per month over two years, and with no upfront cost via Xbox All Access. That price is for an Xbox Series S, of course; if you want Xbox Series X, the price is $34.99 per month. Microsoft is also expanding Xbox All Access program to 12 countries this holiday, with more to come in 2021.

Microsoft has signed a deal with Electronic Arts to bring EA Pass—a value of $5 per month or $30 per year—to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC subscribers for free. EA Pass brings another 60 games to Xbox Game Pass, and some of them are true blockbusters, like FIFA 20, Titanfall 2, and Need for Speed Heat. The service also provides access to popular EA franchises like Battlefield, Mass Effect, Skate, and The Sims.

Your move, Sony.

Tagged with Xbox All Access, Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Game Pass for Console, Xbox Game Pass for PC, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate