Finding a new console at launch is always a challenge, and the Xbox Series X appears to be no exception, with Xbox head Phil Spencer comparing the number of consoles the company can supply between now and the end of the year to the number of buyers, and many gamers will be going home empty-handed. It looks like they will have to do a lot of legwork or wait until 2021 if they want to get their hands on an Xbox Series X.

Information comes from the Dropped Frames podcast via TechRadar. Spencer was a guest on this podcast and discussed the Xbox Series X release date and other topics.

"Basically, we know what the supply is going to be for the rest of this year." It's going to be more demand than supply."

You don't need to be an economics major to parse this statement. Microsoft simply will not have enough consoles available to meet customer demand for the rest of this year. Not unexpected, given that this has been the situation with every console launch in recent decades, but still a bit disappointing. This means, among other things, that many prospective buyers will not be able to give or receive an Xbox Series X during the holiday season.

(It is worth noting that the PS5 situation is exactly the same.)

Still, Xbox fans have several options at their disposal. It is not certain whether Spencer is talking about both new Xbox consoles or just the flagship Xbox Series X. That said, it is possible that the smaller, less powerful Xbox Series S will become more readily available between now and January. (Anecdotal evidence suggests that demand for the Series S is much lower than for the Series X, but that may be due to the small number of Series S consoles to begin with.) Still, it would be worth keeping an eye on.)

An easier option - and I promise I'm not being sarcastic here - is not to try to get an Xbox Series X at launch. After all, thanks to Microsoft's commitment to cross-platform compatibility, there is nothing in the Xbox Series X that is not also available on Xbox One and PC. first-party titles on Xbox One, PC, and even Android via cloud gaming.

Similarly, many third-party games, such as "Assassin's Creed Valhalla" and "Watch Dogs Legion," can take advantage of Microsoft's Smart Delivery feature. You will receive a free upgrade to the Xbox Series X. So even if you have to play at a lower resolution or frame rate for a while, you won't miss out on any games.

In any case, the Xbox Series X will not be the first console to break the "no units at launch" curse. If you really want one, check your favorite retail sites and consider visiting the store in person on launch day. Otherwise, sit tight and wait until early next year.