Ever since the launch of the Xbox One console, Microsoft has struggled to keep up with the PlayStation 4's (PS4) first-party exclusive success. Whereas Sony's console sees several exclusives annually that launch to critical acclaim, the Xbox One suffers from extended periods of time between releases. In addition, the exclusives that do release often get average reception (bright spots like Gears of War 4 or Forza Motorsport 7 notwithstanding).
Xbox head Phil Spencer has pledged to build "high-quality" exclusive games. However, this will take time. Despite this, there are several reasons to choose Xbox over PlayStation if you're looking to purchase a console.
- See Xbox One S Starter Bundle at Microsoft Store
- See Xbox One S at Amazon
- See Xbox One X at Microsoft Store
- See Xbox One X at Amazon
Extensive backwards compatibility
Players who owned past Xbox consoles and several of their games will be pleased to know that as of now, a staggering 497 Xbox 360 and original Xbox games are available via Xbox One's Backwards Compatibility program with more on the way. If you're someone who wants to swap between classic games and brand new releases on the same console, the Xbox One might be for you.
Related: List of backwards compatible games on Xbox One
This is in stark contrast to Sony's PlayStation Now service, which allows you to stream PlayStation 3 games to the PS4 for $20 a month (or $45 for three). Not only can you enjoy backwards compatibility for free on the Xbox One, but you can also download and install titles on your console as you would with a modern game. For PlayStation users, they have to stream the game, which means that hiccups in your internet will either cause lag or lower image quality on-screen.
The exclusive home of EA Access
One of the leading publishers in the gaming industry is Electronic Arts, known for widely popular franchises like Titanfall, Battlefield, and The Sims, as well as sports games like FIFA and NHL.
Compared to PS4 fans, Xbox One users enjoy exclusive access to EA Access, which is a service that allows you to download and play as many EA games as you like for $4.99 a month, as well as giving 10 percent discounts on every permanent game purchase and the ability to try out new titles prior to their launch for free.
See EA Access on Microsoft Store
Seamless cloud storage
Xbox One players receive unlimited cloud storage for game saves as part of the console's adaptive system, which allocates a user as much space as necessary based on their gaming library, regardless of whether they're subscribed to Xbox Live Gold or not. In addition, the Xbox One can be paired with a OneDrive account, and users can utilize 7GBs of free storage in order to transfer game clips and screenshots to it.
The PS4 doesn't offer any cloud storage for saves unless you subscribe to PlayStation Network via PlayStation Plus. Even then, you only get 10GBs, as opposed to Xbox One's infinite space.
A reliable online service
Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network mostly go toe-to-toe with one another in terms of pricing and features; subscriptions to both cost $9.99 a month or $59.99 a year, and subscriptions give you access to some free games and discounts every month. However, Xbox Live pulls ahead in one regard: reliability.
In a recent study by ISH Markit, Xbox Live's stability surpassed that of PlayStation Network. In addition, Live has faster logins and longer periods of lag-free play. This report supports the common belief that Xbox Live is more reliable.
See Xbox Live on Microsoft Store
A rich multi-media experience
When it comes to multi-media, Xbox One has a massive advantage. Something completely unique to Microsoft's console is the ability to transmit your TV signal through it, which means you can switch between watching a show and playing a game in seconds. In addition, the Xbox One family can play 4K Blu-rays. The PS4 family cannot.
Also exclusive to Xbox One is Dolby Atmos support, which will let players who own devices that support it experience their media with spatial sound. Lastly, the Xbox One is also compatible with Kodi, an in-depth media app that lets you access entertainment stored on home devices.
Your thoughts
What advantages do you think the Xbox One has over the PS4? Let us know in the comments.
Xbox One S prices range between $229 and $279 depending on bundles, while the Xbox One X costs $499.
