There’s actually a good deal happening now on the Xbox Series X

The Xbox Series X has long been caught in a paradox: a powerhouse console with cutting-edge specs, yet often overshadowed by its more culturally dominant rival, the PlayStation 5. For months, the narrative around Microsoft’s flagship console has been one of scarcity, inflated prices, and a lack of must-have exclusives. But beneath the surface, a subtle renaissance is unfolding—one that’s making the Xbox Series X not just a viable option, but a surprisingly compelling one for gamers who’ve been on the fence. With a wave of strategic bundles, evolving ecosystem benefits, and a revitalized focus on value, now might actually be the best time to consider joining Team Green.

While the Xbox Series X launched in 2020 with a competitive $499 price tag, global supply chain disruptions, chip shortages, and inflation have pushed its retail price to $649 in many regions. That’s a $150 increase—no small margin, especially when compared to the PlayStation 5, which has seen similar hikes but also more frequent discounts and availability. Yet, despite the sticker shock, Microsoft is quietly making moves to sweeten the deal, particularly through curated bundles that blend hardware, software, and exclusive accessories into packages that offer real value.

One of the most notable examples is the newly available Forza Horizon 6-themed Xbox Series X bundle at Best Buy. Priced at $659.97—just $10 above the inflated standard price—this package includes the 1TB SSD console, a physical copy of the highly anticipated Forza Horizon 6, and a limited-edition wireless controller inspired by the game’s vibrant aesthetic. The controller alone retails for around $180, making this bundle a rare instance where the extras nearly match the console’s own cost. It’s a clever play by Microsoft: instead of slashing the console’s price, they’re bundling in high-value items that appeal to both casual and hardcore gamers.

The inclusion of Forza Horizon 6 is particularly strategic. Slated for release on May 19, the game promises to deliver a sun-drenched, festival-fueled adventure across a reimagined version of Australia, complete with kangaroos, outback trails, and coastal highways. While Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be able to play it on day one at no extra cost, opting for the physical bundle means you also walk away with a collectible controller—something digital-only players miss out on. For collectors and fans of the franchise, that’s a tangible bonus that enhances the overall value proposition.

This bundle isn’t just about the hardware or the game; it’s a statement. Microsoft is signaling that it’s listening to consumer frustration over pricing while also doubling down on its strengths: ecosystem integration, backward compatibility, and a robust subscription model. The Xbox Series X may not have the same level of cultural cachet as the PS5, but it offers something unique—a seamless experience across devices, from PC to console to cloud gaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming.

And let’s not forget: the Xbox Series X remains one of the most powerful consoles on the market. With a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU, 12 teraflops of GPU performance, and a lightning-fast 1TB NVMe SSD, it’s capable of delivering 4K gaming at 60 frames per second—and even 120fps in supported titles. Games like Starfield, Halo Infinite, and Microsoft Flight Simulator showcase the console’s raw power, especially when paired with a high-refresh-rate monitor or TV.

Despite its technical prowess, the Xbox Series X has often struggled with perception. Many gamers associate it with a lack of exclusive titles—a fair critique, given Sony’s dominance with franchises like God of War, Spider-Man, and The Last of Us. But Microsoft is playing the long game. With its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Bethesda, and other major studios, the Xbox ecosystem is poised for a content explosion in the coming years. Titles like Call of Duty, Diablo IV, and Elder Scrolls VI will eventually land on Xbox platforms, and with Game Pass, many will be available on day one.

In the meantime, Microsoft is using bundles and accessories to bridge the gap. The Forza Horizon 6 controller, for instance, isn’t just a pretty face. It features textured grips, a unique color scheme inspired by Australian sunsets, and a special in-game livery for your virtual car. These details matter—they create emotional connections and make the hardware feel personal. It’s a stark contrast to the more utilitarian design of the standard Xbox controller, and it taps into the growing trend of gamified collectibles.

The Value of Bundles in a High-Price Era

The gaming industry has undergone a seismic shift in pricing over the past few years. Inflation, component shortages, and increased production costs have pushed console prices to new heights. The Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 now both retail for $649 in many markets—$150 more than their launch prices. Yet, while Sony has managed to maintain momentum with frequent PS5 restocks and occasional discounts, Xbox has lagged in visibility.

This makes the Forza Horizon 6 bundle a rare bright spot. At $659.97, it’s not a discount in the traditional sense, but it’s a value play. You’re getting $180 worth of controller and a full-priced game for just $10 more than the standalone console. Compare that to buying the game separately ($70) and the controller ($180), and you’re saving over $240. That’s a significant margin, especially for a console that’s otherwise seen little in the way of price reductions.

Bundles like this also serve a psychological purpose. In a market where consoles feel increasingly expensive, offering tangible extras helps justify the cost. It’s the same principle behind holiday bundles that include free games or gift cards—consumers feel like they’re getting more for their money, even if the base price hasn’t changed.

And Microsoft isn’t stopping at Forza. Rumors suggest that future bundles could include Starfield, Fable, or even Gears of War titles, each paired with themed controllers or exclusive in-game content. This approach could help Xbox differentiate itself in a crowded market, especially as cloud gaming and subscription models continue to evolve.

Beyond the Console: The Xbox Ecosystem Advantage

One of the most underrated aspects of the Xbox Series X is its ecosystem. While Sony has focused on exclusive content and hardware innovation, Microsoft has built a platform that prioritizes flexibility and continuity. With Xbox Game Pass, players can access hundreds of games for a monthly fee—less than the cost of a single new release. And with cloud gaming, you can stream many of those titles to your phone, tablet, or PC.

This cross-device functionality is a game-changer. Imagine starting a mission in Halo Infinite on your console, then continuing it on your laptop during a commute. Or playing Forza Horizon 6 on your TV, then switching to your iPhone during a break. That level of integration is unique to Xbox and reflects Microsoft’s broader vision of a unified gaming experience.

The Series X also excels in backward compatibility. Thanks to Microsoft’s aggressive preservation efforts, players can enjoy enhanced versions of classic Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox One games with improved frame rates, resolution, and load times. Titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3, and Mass Effect Legendary Edition run better on the Series X than they did on their original hardware.

And let’s not overlook Quick Resume, a feature that allows players to suspend multiple games and switch between them instantly. It’s a small but transformative quality-of-life improvement that makes multitasking across games seamless. No more waiting through long load screens—just pick up where you left off.

The Bigger Picture: Where Xbox Fits in 2024

As we look ahead, the Xbox Series X is no longer just a console—it’s the centerpiece of a broader gaming strategy. Microsoft’s acquisitions, its investment in cloud infrastructure, and its focus on accessibility are all converging to create a platform that’s more than the sum of its parts.

The Forza Horizon 6 bundle is a microcosm of this shift. It’s not just about selling hardware; it’s about building loyalty, enhancing the user experience, and creating moments of joy. The limited-edition controller isn’t just a peripheral—it’s a badge of fandom, a conversation starter, a piece of gaming culture.

And while $659 might still feel steep to some, it’s important to consider the long-term value. With Game Pass, backward compatibility, and cloud gaming, the Xbox Series X offers more ways to play than any console before it. It’s a gateway to a vast library of content, a bridge between generations, and a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to innovation.

So, is now a good time to buy an Xbox Series X? For many, the answer is yes—especially if you can snag a bundle like the Forza Horizon 6 edition. It’s a rare opportunity to get premium hardware, a highly anticipated game, and a collectible accessory at a price that, while not a discount, offers undeniable value.

And who knows? With Grand Theft Auto 6 on the horizon—rumored to support both PS5 and Xbox Series X—having a powerful, versatile console ready to go might just be the smartest move you make this year.

This article was curated from There’s actually a good deal happening now on the Xbox Series X via The Verge