Congratulations, you've finally unpacked your new Xbox. Whether it's the powerful Series X or the more elegant Series S, you now hold the keys to one of the most powerful and versatile gaming ecosystems available. But before you plunge headlong into a marathon gaming session, there are a few smart steps every new Xbox owner should take to get the most out of their console from day one.
From optimizing your setup to unlocking online gaming, here's how to get off to a great start and play smarter.
Step one: update, synchronize and connect
Let's start with the basics. The first time you boot up your Xbox video game console, you'll be prompted to install system updates. Believe us, it's worth doing this immediately. These updates not only fix bugs and improve performance, they also unlock new features you may not even have known existed.
Next, log in with your Microsoft account (or create one). It's your passport to your entire Xbox experience, from cloud backups to social features to game history. Sync your controller, adjust your screen display settings, and you're already ahead of the curve.
Unlock multiplayer and more
Now let's talk about the magic: online play, cloud saves and members-only game libraries. If you're a multiplayer enthusiast or simply want access to a renewed catalog of high-end titles, a subscription stands out from the start. Instead of juggling several services or paying for each feature, it's often wiser to buyGame Pass Core straight away.
This service gives you online access, free game downloads every month and additional benefits, such as offers and discounts. It's the gateway to a much broader Xbox experience, perfect for gamers who want to get the most out of their console without spending too much.
Prioritize your library
A common mistake among new gamers? Being overwhelmed by the Xbox Store. With so many tempting offers and must-have games, it's easy to overspend in the blink of an eye. The trick is to focus on the games you're actually going to play.
Start by exploring the included Game Pass Core catalog, or pick up a few classics that offer replayability. If you already own older Xbox One games, download them via your account history. They may run even better on your new console thanks to backward compatibility and performance enhancements.
Optimize your configuration like a pro
Now's the time to optimize your configuration for enhanced performance and comfort:
- Enable automatic updates so that games install patches while you sleep.
- Customize your home screen layout for faster access to your favorites.
- Adjust power settings for instant start-up mode: no more long start-ups.
- Activate HDR and 120 Hz modes if your TV supports them for exceptionally smooth images.
Oh, and don't forget to install the Xbox app on your smartphone. It lets you chat with friends, download games remotely and share clips with ease.
Explore the ecosystem
The Xbox experience goes beyond the console. With cross-save compatibility, cloud gaming and the ability to stream games directly to mobile or PC, you're entering an ecosystem focused on flexibility.
Want to try before you buy? Use your Game Pass Core subscription to discover independent gems, niche hits and iconic franchises risk-free. And when you're ready to get started, upgrading to Game Pass Ultimate is always just a click away.
Customize your experience
A successful game setup should reflect your style. Change your controller faceplate, customize your dashboard background and discover accessibility options that make your sessions more comfortable. Xbox gives you the freedom to shape your experience, whether you're a trophy collector, storytelling enthusiast or achievement hunter.
And when it's time to gift a subscription or top up a loved one's account, digital marketplaces like Eneba, which specialize in dematerialized offers, help you stay within your budget while indulging, without the hassle.
Article sponsored by Eneba
