How to Secure an Xbox Series X on Launch Day

A lot of people missed out on the Xbox Series X pre-orders. There seemed to be a lot of problems with the method. For the most part, people missed out on the pre-orders due to record demand. Call it what you will, but there’s a perfect storm brewing for these consoles. Firstly, there’s a lot of excitement about next-gen gaming. Secondly, COVID-19 is giving people more time to play video games than usual. There are plenty of reasons to look forward to next-gen gaming. None of that matters if you can’t secure a console. If you don’t have a pre-order, then here are the best ways to secure an Xbox Series X on launch day.

Where to Find an Xbox Series X at Launch

Image Credit: Microsoft

There are a few different approaches stores are taking to the console launch. Firstly, you can’t count on many stores stocking shelves. Because of the pandemic, Target and Best Buy are confirming they will not stock the Xbox Series X for in-store purchasing. Instead, the two retailers and many others are opting to do in-store pickup for online orders. If that stands to be true, then we’ll likely see orders go live sometime on November 10. If this stands, then here are the spots to find links to order your new console.

Target Xbox Series X Product Page

Best Buy Xbox Series X Product Page

As you likely know, other retailers are offering options for the Series X as well. Wal-Mart in particular is doing things differently. At 12:00 p.m. EST on November 10, this page for the Xbox Series X launch purchasing will go live. From there, you’ll be able to order the console for pick-up at a local Wal-Mart. There’s no way of knowing how many consoles are available for launch. The best bet is to try your luck as soon as these pages go live and hope for the best.

Other Options for Securing the Console

Image Credit: Microsoft

There are other options available. Many stores will be taking advantage as Xbox All Access returns, which is a payment plan option of sorts. Essentially, you can pay $35 a month for an Xbox Series X and Game Pass for two years. The savings for this deal ends up being significant. Amazon is not offering this deal but many others are, including Microsoft’s online store. Speaking of Amazon, I have no reason to believe this other than a guess, but there will likely be drops of the console on Amazon throughout the holidays. If you’re looking to purchase one on Amazon, then be sure to keep an eye on this link here.

For those who secured a pre-order, congratulations! You don’t have to deal with the headaches so many others will have to go through. Manufacturers hit major delays during COVID-19, so there’s no doubt supplies are shorter than once hoped. Still, we have to be patient with drops like this that everyone who wants one will eventually get one. I’d argue strongly to avoid paying a scalper $700+ for a console just to have one now. It’s not worth it, and it rewards predatory practices.

We can’t wait to hear what you all think of the next-gen consoles. If you’re excited about the Xbox Series X launch, then let us know in the comments. Thanks for reading Comic Years for all things gaming, comics, and pop culture.

Featured Image Credit: Microsoft

Taylor is the Gaming Editor of Comic Years and a lifelong fan of video games. He holds two degrees in Political Communication and wrote a Master's Thesis on resistance movements, race, and the exploitation of college athletes. His wife and two Toy Australian Sheppards keep him sane.