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

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Stellaris: Console Edition just got a whole lot better on Xbox Series X|S.

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.

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Stellaris: Console Edition

A must-play strategy game.

The critically acclaimed 4x grand strategy game from Paradox Interactive returns with another new expansion, this time introducing mega corporations, multi-planetary cities, and more. Stellaris is available for Xbox and PC, and is included through Xbox Game Pass.

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Zachary Boddy
Zachary Boddy

Zachary Boddy is the Minecraft Expert and a News Writer for Windows Central, Android Central, and iMore. They have been gaming and writing for most of their life, and have been freelancing for Windows Central and its sister sites since 2019, with a focus on Xbox and PC gaming. You can find Zachary on Twitter @BoddyZachary.
1 Comment
  • Looking forward to trying the new update. But I do have a bit of an issue with Series X upgrades, and the internal SSD requirement. I think Dev's need to be able to choose whether or not the game requires the SSD. If it's using some new technology, streaming in textures or something similar, and it's absolutely required, fine. But there are many games that are just a little sharper, a bit smoother, and there's absolutely no reason games like Tetris, The Touryst, or probably even Stellaris NEED to be on the SSD. Luckily, games like Tetris are also quite small. But the point remains, the HDD space is at a premium, and as more devs provide what's likely little more than a superficial "Series X enhanced" updates, largely probably just so that can have that badge, (not saying Stellaris is guilty of this), HDD space is going to become too much of a problem.