Encountering a glitch during a critical moment or needing to return to the title screen are common scenarios that require knowing how to restart a game on Xbox Series S. While the process is straightforward, understanding the specific controller inputs and system behaviors ensures a smooth transition without confusion. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough for both full restarts and soft resets.
Preparing for the Restart
Before initiating the restart, it is important to close any unnecessary background applications to free up system resources. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide and verify that the game is the active application. This preparation helps the console focus its processing power on the task at hand, minimizing potential errors during the restart sequence.
Method 1: In-Game Restart
If the game is responsive, the fastest way to restart is within the title itself. Navigate to the in-game menu using the controller’s view or options button. Look for settings labeled "Restart," "Reset," or "Reload Game," which are often located near the top of the list. Selecting this option will typically reload the initial checkpoint or main menu without shutting down the console.
Method 2: Quick Restart via Guide
For titles that support quick return, the Xbox Series S offers a convenient shortcut. While in the game, press and hold the Xbox button to open the guide. Hover over the profile picture in the corner and select the restart icon, which resembles a circular arrow. This command signals the game to reload from the beginning, bypassing the need to exit to the dashboard entirely.
Performing a Full Restart
When a game becomes unresponsive or requires a complete refresh, a full restart is necessary. This method closes the application entirely and returns you to the dashboard, allowing you to reload the title fresh. It is the most reliable way to resolve software hangs and memory leaks.
Manual Closure Through the Dashboard
To perform a full restart, begin by pressing the Xbox button to return to the dashboard. Highlight the game tile that is currently running, press the Menu button on the controller, and select "Close game." Confirm the action to terminate the application completely. Once closed, you can re-launch the game from the home screen to start again.
Power Cycling the Console
If the game is entirely frozen and unresponsive to inputs, a power cycle is the definitive solution. Locate the power button on the front of the Xbox Series S and hold it down until the console turns off completely. Wait a few seconds to discharge residual power, then press the button again to turn the system back on. This hard reset clears the system cache and resolves most persistent software issues.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Occasionally, users may find that the controller inputs are not registering or the screen remains blank after attempting a restart. In these situations, checking the physical connection of the controller or trying a different USB-C cable can resolve connectivity problems. Ensuring the console firmware is updated also guarantees compatibility with the latest game patches.
