Stellaris: Console Edition is now Xbox Series X|S Optimized, releases Lithoids Species Pack

Stellaris Lithoid Expansion Release Image
Stellaris Lithoid Expansion Release Image (Image credit: Paradox Interactive)

What you need to know

  • Stellaris: Console Edition is receiving a major update today with the 2.6 "Verne" release rolling out now to Xbox players.
  • The Xbox Series X|S is now the best place to play Stellaris: Console Edition, with lower load times, faster simulation speeds, and faster framerates.
  • Alongside the next-gen update, the Lithoids Species Pack is also now available for Xbox and PlayStation players.
  • This DLC adds a new rock-based species that feature unique mechanics and mineral-based ships.

Today is a major day for Stellaris: Console Edition, most notably for players on Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. Today, Paradox Interactive is releasing the 2.6 "Verne" update for Stellaris: Console Edition that Optimizes the game for Xbox Series X|S consoles. While Paradox Interactive does mention next-gen PlayStation players, this patch does not seem to target the PS5.

With the 2.6 "Verne" update, Stellaris: Console Edition players on Xbox Series X|S can expect several massive improvements that will immediately make for a superior experience on next-gen consoles.

  • Massively reduced load times
  • Increased simulation speeds
  • Doubled framerates
  • Improved combat performance

Today isn't just about the Xbox Series X|S update, however, as Stellaris: Console Edition is also releasing the Lithoids Species Pack DLC today.

The Lithoids are a brand-new rock-based species that feature a ton of unique mechanics as well as new mineral-based ships. The Pack also includes a new voice pack and 16 new portraits for players.

Stellaris: Console Edition is a great option for 4X grand strategy fans while playing on console (especially on the Xbox Series X|S now). If you haven't given it a try yet, Stellaris: Console Edition is also available through Xbox Game Pass. While you won't get any of the expansions or DLC, you'll still be able to take advantage of the Xbox Series X|S update and Smart Delivery for free. Stellaris: Console Edition is definitely one of the best games for Xbox Game Pass for fans of the genre.

Zachary Boddy
Staff Writer

Zachary Boddy (They / Them) is a Staff Writer for Windows Central, primarily focused on covering the latest news in tech and gaming, the best Xbox and PC games, and the most interesting Windows and Xbox hardware. They have been gaming and writing for most of their life starting with the original Xbox, and started out as a freelancer for Windows Central and its sister sites in 2019. Now a full-fledged Staff Writer, Zachary has expanded from only writing about all things Minecraft to covering practically everything on which Windows Central is an expert, especially when it comes to Microsoft. You can find Zachary on Twitter @BoddyZachary.