The Xbox Series X and S have completed five years since their launch, but sentiment around the Xbox brand continues to decline sharply. Initially promising, the consoles failed to release exclusive titles at launch and have seen Microsoft’s layoffs and project cancellations negatively impacting the brand. The rise in console prices is further alienating gamers, sparking questions about the platform's relevance. Despite having competent hardware, the lack of groundbreaking next-gen games and significant studio acquisitions has left many fans wondering about the future of Xbox and whether they should continue to support it over competing consoles.

Is the Xbox Series X worth it in 2025?

As of 2025, the Xbox Series X remains a capable gaming console, but its value is being questioned due to rising prices, limited exclusive titles, and a dwindling connection to the Xbox brand. For many gamers, factors like Game Pass are still appealing, but the ongoing hesitation surrounding Microsoft's direction leaves uncertainty.

The Xbox Series X and S were launched as a response to the less-than-stellar reception of the Xbox One, and they brought hope of redemption with a focus on performance and accessibility through Game Pass. However, the absence of exclusive games has led to mixed feelings within the gaming community, impacting the brand's growth and gamer loyalty. The nostalgia for the Xbox 360 era looms large as players question what the future holds for Xbox amidst growing competition from platforms like PlayStation 5.