The Xbox One X. (GeekWire photo / Todd Bishop)

The Xbox One X has arrived.

Microsoft’s new high-powered $500 console hit store shelves Tuesday, as gamers in 35 markets around the world got their hands on the company’s latest gaming device.

Microsoft’s marketing engine was at full throttle, as the tech giant hosted launch parties with celebrities at its retail stores. And yes, there were lines, though some stores only sold consoles for customers who pre-ordered.

The Xbox One X is hailed by Microsoft as the “world’s most powerful console,” and it certainly lives up to that title. The device is faster and has more computing power than its predecessors, the original Xbox One and newer Xbox One S. It also supports crisp and vivid 4K video, with 8 million pixels and high-dynamic range (HDR).

The Xbox One X. (GeekWire photo / Todd Bishop)

You can read our review of the Xbox One X here. Our main takeaway: If you’re an avid gamer with a 4K TV in your home, and the money to spare on a premium console, the Xbox One X is for you. But for a large portion of the gaming population, there will be better alternatives, including Microsoft’s own Xbox One S.

The Xbox One X launch comes as Microsoft is investing more time and money into its gaming business. Bloomberg reported this week that the company is measuring success more with game, subscription, and service sales, rather than pure console revenue.

Be sure to check out video reviews from veteran tech guru Andru Edwards, co-host of our weekly Geared Up podcast and live video show, who has also been testing the Xbox One X.

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