Xbox One Games That Still Look Better Than Series S Titles
It sounds like heresy to suggest that a console from 2017 could outperform a “next-gen” machine, but in the world of 4K displays, the Xbox One X still holds a dirty little secret. While the Xbox Series S is faster and supports newer features, its 1440p target often leads to a “softer” image compared to the raw 4K power of the One X.
At AwesomeGaming101.com, we’ve pixel-peeped some of the biggest titles in gaming to find where legacy hardware actually wins the beauty contest. Here are the games where the “One” still wears the crown.
🔍 The Resolution Reality Check
The Xbox One X has a significantly more powerful GPU (6 Teraflops) than the Series S (4 Teraflops) specifically designed for pushing 4K pixels. On a 65-inch 4K TV, the difference in texture clarity is often night and day.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
This is the ultimate example. On the Xbox One X, RDR2 runs at a stunning Native 4K. Because the Series S runs the “One S” version of the game, it is capped at a blurry 864p. On a high-end screen, the One X version looks like a different generation entirely.
2. Forza Horizon 4
While the Series S version offers better loading times, the One X version features a 4K “Quality Mode” that delivers incredible draw distances and car reflections that the Series S can’t quite match without sacrificing resolution.
3. Gears 5
Gears 5 is a technical marvel. The Xbox One X version pushes a very high, often native, 4K signal. The Series S uses “Dynamic Resolution Scaling” (DRS) to keep the frame rate stable, which can often result in the image dipping below 1080p during heavy combat.
Visual Fidelity Comparison
| Game | Xbox One X Resolution | Series S Resolution | Winner (Visuals) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 3840 x 2160 (Native) | 1536 x 864 | Xbox One X |
| Final Fantasy XV | Native 4K | 1080p (One S code) | Xbox One X |
| The Witcher 3 | 4K / 30fps | 1440p / 60fps | One X (Clarity) |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | Dynamic 4K | 1080p | Xbox One X |
❓ FAQ: Resolution vs. Frame Rate
Q: Why does the Series S run the “worse” version of old games? A: The Series S is not powerful enough to run the “One X Enhanced” versions of games (which often require more RAM than the Series S has). Instead, it runs the base “One S” versions but with added benefits like Auto-HDR and faster loading. Q: Is a higher resolution better than a higher frame rate? A: This is a personal preference. The Series S often offers 60fps in games where the One X is stuck at 30fps. If you value smooth movement, the Series S wins. If you value a crisp, sharp picture, the One X takes it. Q: Will this ever change? A: Unless a developer releases a specific “Series S Patch” for an old game, it will continue to run the 1080p/900p code from the original Xbox One era.Final Verdict
If you are a 4K Purist who plays a lot of legacy titles, the Xbox One X is a secret powerhouse that out-muscles the Series S in pure pixel count. However, the Series S is the future for new releases. For the best of both worlds, keep that One X for your Red Dead replays!
Do you prefer 4K resolution or 60fps? Let’s debate in the comments! And if you’re sticking with your One X, check out our guide on Is the Xbox One X Still Worth It? for more tips.