Microsoft can't get hold of retail Xbox Series X consoles for this weekend's Halo tournament Eurogamer.net If you click on a link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission. Read our editorial policy. Microsoft can't get hold of retail Xbox Series X consoles for this weekend's Halo tournament "Why? Global supply chain shortage is real." News by Vikki Blake Contributor Updated on 19 Dec 2021 56 comments Even Microsoft is struggling to get ahold of its own Xbox Series X consoles as the global shortages continue to affect the industry. For Halo Infinite's first Halo Championship Series, the company has had to resort to using dev kits - that is, special consoles given to developers to test games during development - as it cannot source enough retail versions. Watch on YouTube However, 343i insist the functionality is "identical" and players shouldn't worry that the kit will affect their performance. "Heads up open bracket players - you'll be playing this weekend on Series X development consoles," tweeted 343 Industries' esports and viewership lead, Tashi (thanks, Notebookcheck.net). "They're functionally identical and will be operating in "Retail" mode so it's the exact same experience, they just look a little different." "Why? Global supply chain shortage is real." Heads up open bracket players - you'll be playing this weekend on Series X development consoles. They're functionally identical and will be operating in "Retail" mode so it's the exact same experience, they just look a little different.Why? Global supply chain shortage is real.- Tashi (@Tashi343i) December 15, 2021 To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Manage cookie settings It's not just Microsoft, of course. AO World boss John Roberts recently told press that availability of PS5 and Xbox Series X and S was "difficult" this Christmas and in October, Intel warned the ongoing global semiconductor shortage could continue into 2023. As Wes summarised for us at the time, the shortage has affected PC graphics cards, as well as supplies for consoles, as the pandemic caused a surge in PC and console sales with so many working from home. New console releases by all three major companies also contributed to increased demand. Both Sony and Microsoft have lamented the current global supply chain and manufacturing problem, acknowledging frustration from those who are struggling to buy a new console. Last month, PlayStation boss Jim Ryan thanked fans for their patience as PS5 remains out of stock a year after launch. UK retailer GAME has put measures in place to deter scalpers, another factor that's been increasing demand. Become a Eurogamer subscriber and get your first month for £1 Get your first month for £1 (normally £3.99) when you buy a Standard Eurogamer subscription. Enjoy ad-free browsing, merch discounts, our monthly letter from the editor, and show your support with a supporter-exclusive comment flair! Support us View supporter archive More News Google announces cloud gaming Chromebooks less than a fortnight after Stadia shutdown GeForce Now preinstalled. 4 Atari will hold RollerCoaster Tycoon rights for another decade Ups and downs. 7 Lady Dimitrescu will be a tad smaller in Resident Evil Village's Mercenaries DLC Level the playing field. 1 Overwatch 2 suffers another DDoS attack and character roster bugs Mei Mei. 13 Latest Articles Digital Foundry Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090: a new level in graphics performance The Digital Foundry video review - and how the new GPU champion delivers for 4K 120fps gaming. Google announces cloud gaming Chromebooks less than a fortnight after Stadia shutdown GeForce Now preinstalled. 4 Feature Evercore Heroes wants to wind people up the right way "There's less rage at them, because they didn't end your fun." Genshin Impact Path of Gleaming Jade dates, login event rewards Including other anniversary rewards and how to claim them. Supporters Only Premium only Off Topic: Take a minute to appreciate Cookin' with Coolio's incredible scallops recipe. What a great book. Premium only Off Topic: Reading City of Glass in comic form "Where exactly am I going?" Premium only Off Topic: Il Buco is a transporting film about a really big hole Underlands. Off-Topic Netflix handled Sandman brilliantly It was Dreamy. 9 Buy things with globes on them And other lovely Eurogamer merch in our official store! Explore our store