More Xbox Series X|S consoles have been sold at this point in their lifespan than during the equivalent periods for any previous Xbox console, as revealed by Microsoft.
Xbox head Phil Spencer, recently had an interview with The New York Times, were he discussed how difficult it is to find a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series console. He says it’s not because supply is lower than it’s been in the past, but the demand is that much higher.
“At this point, we’ve sold more of this generation of Xboxes, which is Xbox Series X and S, than we had any previous version of Xboxes. So it’s our job to get the supply there to meet that demand,” Spencer explained.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated people’s interest in gaming, since many people were stuck at home during lockdowns. Spencer says, “The swell in usage in gaming was a surprise to us. Back in — what would it have been — March, April of 2020 — we sold out of consoles, which we never do.”
He’s referring to the Xbox One. In July 2020, Microsoft also announced that the One X and One S All-Digital Editions would be discontinued ahead of the Series X|S launch. Demand for gaming consoles is so crazy right now that last generation PS4 consoles have increased in price.
Despite shortages of consoles last year, Microsoft says the Xbox Series X|S is the fastest-selling Xbox ever. 2022 will be a good content year for Xbox Series owners, with Redfall and Starfield coming later this year.