At the onset of this new console generation, Microsoft took an unexpected approach. Unlike Sony's division between disc-based and digital-only consoles, Microsoft's division was based on power. The Xbox Series S came at a lower price point but with less processing power compared to the pricier Series X. The intention was to serve as a bridge between generations and an affordable entry option. However, Microsoft made a significant commitment.
Despite the potential technical differences between the consoles, feature consistency between the two was assured. This assurance stemmed from Microsoft's requirement for uniformity, applicable to both its in-house studios and third-party developers.
However, as time has passed, fulfilling this requirement has become increasingly challenging. While certain developers have expressed discontent with the Series S specifications for some time, a current situation highlights how this parity demand is negatively impacting both the Xbox ecosystem and its players. Larian Studios has postponed the launch of Baldur’s Gate 3, a potential contender for the title of Game of the Year in 2023, until they can develop a solution for enabling split-screen functionality on the Series S.
Michael Douse, the Director of Publishing at Larian Studios, candidly addressed the issue:
"We've reiterated multiple times that the challenge lies in implementing split-screen functionality on the Series S, a task that demands more time but is actively being pursued," Douse explained on Twitter. "While it presents a substantial technical obstacle, releasing the game within this ecosystem without incorporating this feature is not feasible."
"We are unable to eliminate the split-screen functionality due to our commitment to launching with feature uniformity. As a result, we are persistently working towards resolving this challenge. A dedicated team of engineers is diligently striving to accomplish what no other RPG of this magnitude has accomplished: a fluid, seamless drop-in, drop-out co-op experience on the Series S platform. We anticipate providing an update on our progress by the end of this year."
Microsoft's insistence on maintaining feature uniformity between Series X and S consoles is resulting in a situation where Xbox players might not gain access to a potential Game of the Year title in 2023 until the year 2024. Larian Studios is constrained by the fact that they can't simply remove the split-screen feature due to Microsoft's requirements. It's worth noting that this particular feature might not even be utilized by the majority of players of the game.
One might suggest that Microsoft could alleviate the issue by discontinuing the demand for feature parity between the Series X and S. This could potentially allow Larian to omit split-screen and proceed with the game's release. However, the situation reveals how Microsoft has somewhat cornered itself. In the context of Baldur’s Gate 3, this translates to the necessity of having split-screen functionality, which could lead to confusion among Xbox owners. Those who are not constantly following gaming news might purchase the Series S version with the expectation of playing co-op with a friend who owns a Series X, only to discover that this isn't feasible.
This scenario extends to numerous other games as well. Several challenges in Series S development could potentially lead to the removal of various features, resulting in a need to clarify these omissions for Series S players. Otherwise, players might unknowingly purchase these games and be disappointed by the absence of these features.
This highlights Microsoft's failure to thoroughly consider the Series S concept from the outset. While the demand for feature parity might have seemed necessary, as the current generation advances, modern games are increasingly pushing technical boundaries. Consequently, the Series S is struggling to keep up, putting both the console and developers under strain to meet Microsoft's requirements. As illustrated in this instance, Microsoft has effectively handed Sony a console-exclusive advantage for one of the year's biggest games, all without Sony having to strike any sort of deal. This situation is undeniably problematic.
Finding a solution to this predicament remains uncertain. Ending the requirement for feature parity would create chaos. Halting Series S sales wouldn't resolve the issue, given the millions already in circulation that can't be left behind. Traveling back in time to prevent the initial release of the Series S and avoid this situation is impossible. Consequently, unless an alternative approach is devised, Microsoft appears to be in a challenging situation.
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