Loud Fan/Overheating of console

It's unfortunate that you're experiencing issues with your Xbox Series X. Overheating can be a common problem with gaming consoles, but there are several steps you can take to address the issue.

1. Thermal paste: Changing the thermal paste was a good first step. The thermal paste helps to conduct heat between the CPU and the heat sink. Make sure you applied the thermal paste properly, with just the right amount, to ensure efficient heat transfer.
2. Placement and ventilation: You mentioned that you are storing your Xbox Series X in an open and well-ventilated area. This is important to allow for proper airflow around the console. Ensure that there are no obstructions blocking the vents and that the console is not placed on a surface that traps heat, such as carpet or inside a cabinet.
3. Horizontal vs. vertical: Storing the console horizontally or vertically should not affect its performance or cooling significantly. The Xbox Series X is designed to function in both orientations. Choose the orientation that suits your setup best.
4. Cleaning: Dust accumulation can impede the cooling performance of your console. Regularly clean the vents and fans to remove any dust or debris. Use compressed air or a soft brush to gently clean the vents and fan blades.
5. External cooling: Consider using external cooling solutions, such as cooling stands or fans, to provide additional airflow around the console. These can help reduce temperatures and potentially decrease fan noise.
6. Ambient temperature: While the recommended temperature range for operating the Xbox Series X is typically between 50-95°F (10-35°C), 80°F (27°C) should still be within an acceptable range. However, higher ambient temperatures can put more strain on the cooling system, leading to louder fan noise. If possible, try to lower the ambient temperature in the room where the console is used, for example, by using air conditioning or fans.

If you've tried these steps and the fan noise is still excessively loud on certain games, there might be an underlying hardware issue. In such cases, it's advisable to contact Xbox support or the retailer you purchased the console from for further assistance or to explore warranty options.