Faster loading times is at the top of just about everyone's next-gen wish-list when it comes to both the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X. Being able to get into a game in a matter of seconds instead of waiting in menus for minutes. As part of a new post detailing the hardware behind the Xbox Series X - Microsoft also lays out how its approach to storage and even game delivery is set to become a, well, game changer.

Although full technical details related to capacity and bandwidth are still TBC, Microsoft reiterated that the Xbox Series X will feature "next-generation SSD Storage" - that in addition to offering vastly superior load-times and general browsing speeds, will also lead to a few notable innovations.

With one of these being Quick Resume, the ability for the Xbox Series X to store multiple save states - meaning that you can quickly jump from a multiplayer game to singe-player adventure, picking things up where you left them "without waiting through long loading screens". This is a feature that no doubt takes full advantage of SSD storage in addition to the fast memory of the Series X hardware.

The next thing is Smart Delivery which takes full advantage of the entire Xbox ecosystem - PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X. With Xbox Game Pass and titles like Halo: Infinite being playable across all systems, Smart Delivery means that you only need a single subscription or purchase and that whatever hardware you're logged into the correct version will then download and install. Smart Delivery is something open to all developers and publishers with Xbox One titles that might get an Xbox Series X update - like Cyberpunk 2077 - not requiring a new Game of the Year edition. Exactly that as CD Projekt RED notes that all Xbox One versions of the game will be compatible with Xbox Series X and get a free next-gen update when available.

Gamers should never be forced to purchase the same game twice or pay for upgrades. Owners of #Cyberpunk2077 for Xbox One will receive the Xbox Series X upgrade for free when available. https://t.co/nfkfFLj85w

— Cyberpunk 2077 (@CyberpunkGame) February 24, 2020

Smart Delivery by all accounts is an extension of Microsoft's focus on backwards compatibility with the Xbox One - with the Xbox Series X to continue that support. Interestingly Microsoft notes that backwards compatible titles will benefit from the additional power of the Series X, noting that higher framerates and resolutions and faster loading for older titles will be there day one - without the need for specific patches or developer updates.

Plus, support for Xbox One peripheral support - so no need to buy a whole new set of controllers. Microsoft sums up the Series X as follows.

Xbox Series X is our fastest, most powerful console ever, designed for a console generation that has you at its center. This means a high-fidelity gaming experience enclosed in a quiet and bold design, with the ability to discover thousands of games across four generations, all with more playing and less waiting.