Optimized for Xbox Series X Microsoft announces its seal of approval for new games

The Optimised for Xbox Series X

Microsoft explains what’s behind the Optimized for Xbox Series X seal of approval and what players will have to expect in the future. For example, according to Microsoft, all games that bear the "Optimized for Xbox Series X" label have "exceptionally" short loading times and stable frame rates of up to 120 FPS.

4K with 60 FPS are the target

While 120 FPS are possible, the primary target of 60 FPS at a resolution of 3,840 2,160 pixels, alias 4K, remains the target for games optimized for the next-gen game console. Microsoft describes these specifications as the "set performance target" for the Xbox Series X (specifications).

Games optimized for the Xbox Series X use the power of the new console to achieve higher, more even frame rates with a performance target of 60 frames per second at 4K resolution.

Some of the optimized games would support frame rates of up to 120 FPS or alternatively limit the frame rate to be able to use more computing power on details, according to Microsoft. One of these games will be Dirt 5, which is why Microsoft has David Springate, the technical director of Codemasters, talk.

Dirt 5 is a fast-paced, action-packed, off-road racing game, and it’s incredible to be able to play it optionally at 120 FPS on Xbox Series X. The performance of the Series X guarantees that the game runs stable at 60 frames per second and looks stunning. In addition, with the optional 120 frames per second, we can provide an amazingly smooth, responsive gameplay.

Fast loading times and Directx raytracing

Games optimized for the Xbox Series X should also feature significantly faster loading times, in which they enhance the velocity architecture and the new I/O system (Directstorage") of the 1 TB and 2.4 GB/s-fast PcieFully exploit SSD with Nvme protocol. In addition, hardware-accelerated Directx raytracing is also part of the standard repertoire of optimized games.

However, Microsoft distinguishes between games originally developed with the Dev Kit for Xbox Series X and previously released titles, which have been specially developed for the Xbox Series X and thus somewhat deviates from the requirements for the "Optimized for Xbox Series X" seal of approval.

Microsoft does not establish a binding minimum standard

Some of the games previously developed for the previous generation, such as Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2, neither support 4K nor an extended dynamic range through HDR.

Upcoming blockbusters like Assassin’s
Creed Valhalla, on the other hand, support the entire package from 4K to HDR to smart delivery and optimizations for the Xbox Series X, but 60 frames per second are not guaranteed despite the higher raw performance of the new game console, they are considered merely a "common" standard, but have no liability: 60 FPS are not mandatory.

A soft guarantee

With Optimized for Xbox Series X, Microsoft does not set a mandatory minimum standard for future games. In the end, all that remains is a series of "soft" adjustments and measures that do not, however, explain beyond any doubt what Optimized for the Xbox Series X ultimately means. It just seems guaranteed that some of the possible improvements in the game will be used.