The PS5 vs Xbox Series face-off has been an intriguing game of chess as Sony and Microsoft battle it out to conquer the next-generation of gaming consoles.
While we've lacked the glamorous reveals at major events such as E3 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the all-digital marketing approach has been one we'll unlikely forget.
It's been a cagey affair for the most part, but with COVID-19 affecting everyone around the world, it's hit one of Microsoft's biggest titles and has forced them to take action; announcing the launch month.
A new leak has seemingly revealed the exact release dates for the Xbox Series X and Series S.
Xbox Series X Release Date
In August, 343 Industries had to break the devastating news that Halo Infinite would be delayed.
Many fans were understandably upset, but the true franchise fanatics understood that it was necessary to get the game they've been waiting 5 years for.
Microsoft was ultimately forced to act, to soften the blow, knowing that their standout launch game was no longer going to be in-play.
It was announced that Xbox Series X would be releasing their console in November. A bold and powerful play, leaving the ball in Sony's court, who can now choose to match them or supersede them.
It's likely Sony is suffering from similar issues and will unlikely opt to variate their launch too much.
According to TweakTown, the Xbox Series X will arrive on the 6th November, with the Series S model potentially arriving the day before.
Recently, the new controller was doing the rounds on the internet in all its glory. What was interesting was an image that was posted on the ResetERA forums, containing a warranty for the controller with a 5th November 2021 expiry date.
Photo via ResetERA
Most warranties last for at least a year, so we're expecting the console and peripherals to launch on the 5th-6th November 2020.
Furthermore, a new retail package has also appeared instructing retailers not to sell the product before the 6th November 2020.
Photo via Tweak Town
We should take into account that the controllers could be sold before the launch of the Xbox Series systems. The controller is compatible with Xbox One consoles, Windows 10 PCs and mobile devices.
The question is, how much longer will Microsoft wait before making an official announcement?
November is rapidly approaching and we've not even gotten a pre-order page yet.
It could be more studio issues, such as the one 343 faced, that is preventing Xbox from giving a concrete date. They'll want to ensure they have some solid titles to launch with without the Master Chief leading the charge.