Xbox360 Blogger

Bill says: Xbox360 to be the most reliable console

2008-01-11T17:29:00.001Z

The red rings are a threat to any Xbox360 owner. However until the extended 3-year warranty came along last year Microsoft couldn't care less.

In an interview with the BBC Bill Gates is doing one better. He believes with the new warranty and updated hardware that the Xbox360 may become the ”most reliable” console out there.

Source

Xbox360 Backwards Compatibility Updates 'Winding Down'

2008-01-10T20:33:00.001Z

In November of last year, the Xbox360 received another backwards compatibility update bringing the total number of supported original Xbox games to over 450. That update may have been the last, however, according to group marketing manager Albert Penello.

Speaking to Kotaku, Penello noted, "I don't know if we have plans to do any more releases. It feels like we kind of hit the point of diminishing returns there. I know with the Xbox Originals, there are still things happening there, but in terms of a lot of engineering work around bringing out new titles, I think they're winding that down." Xbox360

Penello said that Microsoft at this point has upheld its promise from a corporate standpoint to make its most popular original Xbox titles playable on Xbox360. "For the most part, we've crossed off games that people want to play," he said. "There's always going to be a notable exception here or there."

Source

Halo 3 Four Player Online Co-Op Confirmed

2007-08-01T13:51:00.000+01:00

Halo 3 Four Player Online Co-Op has been Confirmed, now to the details straight from the horses mouth at Bungie.net

So you were probably wondering why we didn’t want to commit to two player co-op online over Xbox Live. We certainly got plenty of mail asking, no, demanding that we make it happen. Of course we were working on it, but we were also working on something better. Not two player co-op. Not three-player co-op, but up to four player co-op. Online. On Xbox Live, or sure, System Link if you prefer.

That is correct – up to four player co-op in Campaign mode on Xbox Live or System Link.

We’ve been playing it for quite some time, and bluntly, having some of our greatest ever Halo experiences. We wanted to make sure all our “t”s were crossed and our “i”s dotted before unveiling this important new part of Halo 3’s Campaign mode.

Apart from the horrifying network challenges this new mode presented us, were the various gameplay balance issues it adds to the fray. So we got it all together, polished it, and that’s why we’re revealing it now. As a result, you’re going to want to play co-op as hard as you can stomach it. We’d certainly recommend Legendary, but we’ll be revealing some more ways to make the game more interesting and challenging for multiple players in the very near future.

Acting as a team is a fantastic new twist to the Campaign gameplay – something that works as well on foot, in close confines as it does on the battlefield, with large scale vehicle mayhem. Scared of Jackal snipers? Send out a scout to see what dangers lie ahead. Terrified of an open field? Flank your enemies and swipe their rides. The combinations and scenarios are endless – and you’ll be able to enjoy them time and time again in Saved Films of your co-op exploits.

We mentioned that we’ve been having a blast. We have a lot of stories. Many of them would require that we explain some of the reasons replay will be a big factor, but not quite yet. Soon, we promise.

Like every other aspect of Halo 3, this mode is chosen from a Lobby. Simply select Campaign, choose your network (Xbox Live or System Link) and invite your friends to join you, or they can simply join your session once it’s set up and in a lobby (but they cannot join a game once it’s in-progress). They will pop into your lobby instantly, and when you have all the players you need (anywhere from one to four) you can begin the game from the beginning – or from any of your saved checkpoints.

Split-screen co-op is as ever, limited to two players per screen – but they can if they wish join two other friends online or via System Link.

For fictional reasons, we decided to avoid Halo’s slightly surreal compromise of two identical Master Chiefs and rather, use this opportunity to expand the Halo universe just a little bit. Player one will control the Master Chief, player two will control the Arbiter and players three and four will get the chance to control two brand new Elite characters.

Microsoft Says No

2007-07-31T10:55:00.000+01:00

Microsoft has said no to the credible rumors of a $50 price drop for the $400 Xbox360 Premium package. The rumors continue to say that the price drop will see the Core system discontinued in the US.

Microsoft's response was: "No. Xbox360 Core remains an important member of the Xbox 360 family."

Limited Edition Simpsons Xbox360 Console

2007-07-30T11:06:00.000+01:00

One of only 100 Limited edition Simpsons Xbox 360 Consoles is on ebay with the current bid standing at $4000. Check out the auction here.

Stagnant overseas sales for Microsoft

2007-07-28T10:07:00.000+01:00

Sales of Microsoft's Xbox360 were dead in the latest video game hardware sales report in Japan.

Media Create Co. reported yesterday that the Xbox360 sold only 2,664 units between July 16 and July 22. In comparison, more than 86,000 Wii units and more than 12,000 Playstation 3 units were sold in the same period.

An Additional blow came as the Xbox360 was unable to rank any software titles in the top 50 sales.

The Xbox360 has not faired well in Japan where hardware sales have yet to top half a million, a tiny figure compaired with the 11.6 million Xbox360 units sold worldwide to date.

360 HD DVD Player Prices Slashed

2007-07-26T17:05:00.000+01:00

Today Microsoft announced it will lower the price of the Xbox360 HD DVD Player from $199 to $179 starting on Aug. 1, and will throw in five free HD DVD movies with it for anyone purchasing an Xbox 360 HD DVD Player between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30.

360 in for a $50 Price Cut?

2007-07-25T14:34:00.000+01:00

In an effort to regain momentum in the video game console market, Microsoft will cut the price of the Xbox 360 by $50 by early august, sources have said.

The reduction will be made on August 8, according to one source in the retail world, noting that the cut will come during what traditionally has been one of the slower times of the year for game hardware sales.

A Microsoft spokesman has said: "We have no announcements to make on pricing at this time. While price matters, content is king. And no other system is offering all the games people want to play this holiday at a better price than Xbox360."

It is unclear whether the cut will effect all three versions of the Xbox360 (The Core, The Pro and The Elite) or just some of them. There are several big name titles set to ship at the time of the speculated price drop. Madden NFL 08, BioShock and John Woo Presents Stranglehold are coming to the Xbox360 in August.

Speculation of an Xbox price cut grew after Sony announced several weeks ago that it was going to be slashing the price of its 60GB PlayStation 3 from $599 to $499.

In latest sales figures, the Xbox360 and PS3 continue to trail the Wii in U.S. sales. In June the Wii outsold the Xbox360 by nearly 2-to-1. However Microsoft should get a huge boost in September with the launch of the exclusive Halo 3.

Xbox360

2007-01-12T11:31:00.000Z

Dead Rising on Xbox360 breaks 1 million barrier

2007-01-11T15:59:00.000Z

Capcom has announced that they have sold more than 1 million copies of Dead Rising for the Xbox360.
The game was launched in august last year and reached the 1 million mark just 4 months later.
The game won the Spike TV Video Game Awards 2006 for Best Action Game.

Buy Xbox get Socks

2007-01-10T16:37:00.000Z

Buy an Xbox360 and you might be in for a surprise.

Xbox360 Warranty Extended

2007-01-02T22:08:00.000Z

Microsoft announced that effective December 22, 2006, the Xbox360 warranty has been extended to one year from the date of purchase. The extended warranty applies to new customers and existing Xbox 360 owners.

Hardware issues with your Xbox360 within one year of purchase, your console will be repaired at no cost.

For those of you who have already shelled out to get your 360 fixed within their first year of ownership, Microsoft will be automaticaly refunding the repair cost within the next 10 weeks.

Mouse & Keyboard Adapter for Xbox360

2006-12-20T22:22:00.000Z

The XFPS 360 which will be the first device for the Xbox360 that enables you to use your keyboard and mouse, has finished final.

Using the XFPS 360 you can also connect a PS2 Dualshock or a PS2 Racing Wheel. It is also possible to connect a PS2 light gun, PS2 guitar or a PS2 dancing mat to the xbox360 through the XFPS 360 although these three would not be supported by any games available on the 360.

Halo 3 Ad

2006-12-18T21:35:00.000Z

360 Sales in Japan Improve

2006-12-16T14:55:00.000Z

Sales of the Xbox360 skyrocketed in Japan due to the release of the
anticipated RPG Blue Dragon.

The Xbox360 sold 35,343 units from December 4 to December 10, by contrast the console sold 7,000 units the previous week.

This boost in sales is good news for the Xbox360 wich has struggled in Japan from its launch due to limited game offerings. Titles like Ridge Racer 6 and Dead or Alive 4 have failed to attract interest in the Xbox360.

Microsoft has said earlier this month that it expects to sell in excess of 10 million Xbox360 units by the end of 2006.

More Games Added to the Xbox360 Back Compatibility List

2006-12-15T16:17:00.000Z

The Xbox titles that have just been added to the Backwards Compatable list are:

Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Burnout 3: Takedown UPDATED
Conker: Live and Reloaded
Dead Or Alive Ultimate
Destroy All Humans!
Dynasty Warriors 4 / Shin Sangokumuso3
Evil Dead: A Fistful of Boomstick
Family Guy
Far Cry: Instincts
Fahrenheit/Indigo Prophecy
I-Ninja
Leisure Suit Larry: Magna *** Laude
Mortal Kombat: Armageddon
MotoGP
MX Unleashed
Open Season
PariahPsychonauts
Rainbow Six: Lockdown
Rapala Pro Fishing
Scarface
Shark Tale
Shenmue II
Soul Calibur 2
Splinter Cell: Double Agent
The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
Ultimate Spider-Man
Wakeboarding Unleashed: Featuring Sean Murray
Whacked!
Winback 2: Project Poseidon
Xiaolin Showdown

There are now more than 300 Xbox games that will work on the Xbox360

Xbox360 camera comming

2006-05-30T16:32:00.000+01:00

Microsoft's director of programming for Xbox Live, better known as Major Nelson, has announced that the Xbox Live Vision camera will get a simultaneous release in Europe and the US this autumn.
The XLV camera will allow gamers to personalise their gamertag picture, send photo messages, and chat over Xbox Live. It can also be used to play Xbox Live Arcade games such as Uno and Texas Hold 'Em Poker. As previously announced, GestureTek will be providing the technology that powers the device.
According to Nelson's latest podcast, the forthcoming Xbox Live update is all set to work with the camera, so users can expect a "plug and play experience."
"The camera is launching this fourth quarter," Nelson said, adding: "We've actually given a specific date both for North America and Europe of September 19th." There was no word as to how much the camera will cost, however.

Xbox360 to have 200 games by Dec 07

2006-04-27T21:40:00.000+01:00

Microsoft’s new console may be only five months old but the company is already thinking long term. With hardware shortages becoming something of the past and the post-release doldrums rapidly disappearing, Microsoft is promising much more to come for the Xbox 360 in the next year or so.
The 18-strong collection of games that made up the Xbox360 launch titles in November 2005 could soon explode to 150 to 200 within the next 12 to 18 months, Microsoft’s Peter Moore said in an interview with Xbox.com.
Moore said “It is our goal to bring E3 home to Xbox Live members as best we can, all the videos and the news as quickly as possible,” said Moore. “We will give you the flavour of what’s going on, on the show floor and some of the stuff that we are showing and debuting here.”Source: Kikizo Games

Bloke Water Cools His Xbox360

2006-04-12T16:52:00.000+01:00

The bloke says that the XBox360 tends to get a bit noisy when it heats up which is mostly due to the fans. His idea was to void his warranty and replace the fans with a water cooling system of his own invention.

Obviously the whole concept of opening up your Xbox360 and filling it with water voids the warranty.

there are lots of pictures and a step by step guide if you want to do it your self here

Xbox360 Video Content

2006-03-27T20:32:00.000+01:00

The partnership will see Microsoft offering exclusive artist content and high-definition music video downloads free to Xbox360 gamers for a year, via the Xbox Live Marketplace service.

Free downloads from twelve up-and-coming artists will be offered through the Artist of the Month (AOM) program, with grandma-untroubling, British singer Natasha Bedingfield kicking off the service.

Microsoft Offers Xbox360 Video Downloads Videos and "exclusive artist content" will also be made available for download from the Xbox site.

"Our goal has always been to make Xbox Live a cutting-edge entertainment experience", insisted Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft.

"This agreement with Epic Records offers our members exclusive artistic content directly from the source. With Artist of the Month we will be providing exactly what music-loving gamers want: brand-new, exclusive music videos that can be downloaded quickly, easily and free of charge," he added.

Microsoft Offers Xbox360 Video Downloads Epic has already dished out music videos for the Xbox 360 from the likes of Franz Ferdinand and Audioslave, and their catalogue also includes acts like Shakira, Matisyahu, Jennifer Lopez and Antipodean dandruff shakers, AC/DC.

Each month Microsoft and Epic will announce the new Artist of the Month, along with exclusive benefits for Xbox360

Xbox360 Cable Problems

2006-03-13T00:07:00.000Z

Joystiq is reporting an issue with using the VGA cable option on the Xbox360. Evidentially, the aspect ratio tends to be off, causing some stretching and other inconveniences.

It seems games will either play perfectly, stretch out of proportion or some ugly black bars will appear. The stretching appears to be the biggest interference with actual game play. The full article can be read by clicking here. Xbox360

2006-02-13T21:56:00.000Z

During his DICE session last Friday Peter Moore tackled some of the burning questions regarding Xbox360, including stock shortages and the rather splendid Xbox360 Live online service.

The stock shortage problems should be ironed out in a couple of month’s time, according to Moore. "Within the next four to six weeks, anybody will be able to walk into a store and buy an Xbox360,” Moore claimed.

It's certainly true that the eBay Xbox360 frenzy seems to have calmed down. Plus major online retailers such as Amazon seem to have more Xbox360 available - although still being sold as part of overpriced bundles, rather than stand alone machines.

On being asked if the simultaneous global launch of the xbox360 was the right move, Moore answered: "Was it controversial? Yes. But it's what we needed to do to bring next-gen gaming to a global audience. There have been short-term shortages, but we're driving a clear advantage as we go forward. It was the right decision."

He went on to add: "There were component shortages, but they've been fixed. Now we're starting to cook. We're building a vibrant, rich and profitable business model for the future." xbox360

Perhaps 'cook' was the wrong word to use there Mr Moore, bearing in mind the somewhat negative publicity surrounding your next-gen consoles tendency to overheat a little. However, minor gripes about overheating issues aside, it does seem that Microsoft is on track with its plans for xbox360 in many significant ways.

Just look at the stats which Moore reeled off last week: 54 percent of Xbox 360 owners use Xbox Live, compared to 10 percent for the original Xbox and 4 million pieces of content have been downloaded from Xbox360 Live since launch.

The try-before-you-buy model of Live Arcade has also been an unqualified success. Moore gives the example of Geometry Wars – with 36 percent of consumers who downloaded the demo having gone on to buy the full game.

"Nothing normally converts from sample to purchase at a rate of 35 percent. It's proof positive that we are dragging gaming into the online era," Moore confidently stated.Xbox360

Source: http://spong.com/

Chocolate Xbox360 controler

2006-02-06T18:59:00.000Z

Xbox360 to do well in Japan?

2006-01-31T20:19:00.000Z

So the Xbox360 release didn't go so well in Japan.

But that could soon change as third party developers sign on with Microsoft.

Namco has a stash of titles announced for the Xbox360. Titles include Ridge Racer 6 for xbox360, Frame City, Love Football, and a few other titles that are yet to be announced.
The titles are due to be showcased at this year's E3.

Virtua Fighter 5 and House of the Dead 4 arcade titles are both roumored to be bought to the platform. Capcom has also said they will be bringing Dead Rising and Lost Planet to the xbox360 in late 2006. However will this be enough for the xbox to increases its market share in japan.

Xbox360 delayed in Australia

2006-01-29T14:10:00.000Z

The demand for the Microsoft Xbox360 has been huge, with consoles being sold out every where. On top of that, you can go to any store and find them gone almost as soon as they come in. Manufacturing problems have continually plagued Microsoft and their next generation console, and those problems seem to continue to haunt them.Microsoft representatives have now confirmed that the launch of the Xbox360 in New Zealand and Australia will be delayed from March 2nd to March 23rd. Despite the new third manufacturing company that Microsoft brought on board, the lack of Xbox360s is plaguing even its next launch. On the other side of things, Microsoft has confirmed that the launch of South Korea's Xbox360s is still on schedule with a February 24th release date.

Updates for Xbox Live

2006-01-25T17:24:00.000Z

An update should be headding for Xbox360 owners via Xbox Live soon. The update should fix various Dashboard problems that have affected the console since launch. Such problems include: in-game freezing issues, achievements not being registered or being lost, crashing, and the function of the dashboard as a whole.

No date has been announced specifically, but it seems Microsoft has never told us when our original Xbox was going to update, and we would download some mysterious update upon signing onto Xbox Live. So it’s probably safe to assume the same will happen with Xbox360.

Source: Gameshout

Australian Xbox360 Release Delayed?

2006-01-24T18:45:00.000Z

Rumours have recently been making the rounds claiming that Microsoft has delayed the release of the Xbox360 in Australia, which was originally planned for a March 2, 2006 launch.

The rumour claimed that Microsoft had delayed the launch of the Xbox360 to March 23, 2006. Considering that this rumour originated on a forum, we did not take the claims seriously until further proof had began to form.

Recently, further information on the delayed launch has surfaced. Another forumer, who claims to be an employee of nationwide retailer chain, Target, has reported that next week's catalogue has the release date for the Xbox360 branded as March 23, rather than March 2 that all catalogues have recently been marked with.

Further adding to the rumour's fire are the claims that Microsoft will issue an official statement on the system's delay in Australia on January 27, 2006. Of course, this claim is also nothing more than pure speculation.

Source: http://www.gamerwithin.com

Xbox360 and the HD-DVD Drive

2006-01-18T20:35:00.000Z

It has been announced that the xbox360 will support the next generation optical disc format HD-DVD However, to play the discs an addon external drive will be required, shipping some time in 2006

Previously Microsoft has said that the company would not be delivering an
HD-DVD equipped Xbox 360. allow movie playback rather than as a games medium.

When released it is likly that the external HD-DVD drive will only be used for playing movies and not games.

Xbox360 Camera

2006-01-16T20:36:00.000Z

The Xbox360 Camera seen here is due to be released during spring 2006

Microsoft moves into action on the shortage of Xbox360s

2006-01-07T22:24:00.000Z

Microsoft has acted on xbox360 shortages by announcing a third manufacturing partner.

The company faced the passion of frustrated gamers in december as limited supplies of the new console quickly sold out.

Microsoft has now has signed up a third company to make the Xbox 360.Celestica will join Microsoft's existing manufacturing partners Flextronics and Wistron to help meet high demand for the console.

The Xbox360 is the first of a new generation of games consoles.

had signed up a third company to make the Xbox 360.Celestica will join Microsoft's existing manufacturing partners Flextronics and Wistron to help meet high demand for the console.

Microsoft is reported to be on track to ship between 4.5 million and 5.5 million consoles by the end of June. The decision to offer limited free access to its online gaming service, Xbox Live, appears to have paid off. More than 50% of 360s are connected to Live, compared to 10% of the original Xbox.

Although a free subscription does not allow people to play games, they can access the xbox360 Marketplace and download movie trailers, demo games and music.

Microsoft has also announced that it would be releasing a high definition HD DVD external drive for the 360 later this year. The console itself just has a standard DVD player.Microsoft hopes to steal a march of its competitors by being first out of the gate with the Xbox 360.

Sony has said its PlayStation 3 will out in the spring and Nintendo is also planning to release its Revolution this year.

Shortage of Xbox360 s continues

2005-12-13T21:59:00.000Z

Those wanting Xbox360s in time for Christmas have been turning to eBay where xbox360 consoles are available for 100's and even 1000's of dollars above retail price. while others

Moore said he was unsure of when customers would be able to simply enter a store and pick up a console. Moore said many stores in the U.S. had more preorders than the stock they expected to receive, so those orders are still being filled.Right now, Microsoft has two companies creating Xbox360s – one in Singapore and another in Taiwan. It plans to add a Canadian manufacturer, Celestica, next year, PCWorld reported. All three companies will produce the consoles in China.

xbox360 backwards compatability list increased

2005-12-10T17:36:00.000Z

Microsoft has added the folowing games to its backwards compatibility list for the xbox360

Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon 2
Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon 2 Summit Strike
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six 3
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six 3 Black Arrow
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Chaos Theory
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Pandora Tomorrow

xbox360 backwards compatability list

2005-11-13T20:08:00.000Z

The xbox360 backwards compatibility list has been released. This details the games originaly designed for the xbox that will also work on the xbox360.

The number of xbox games that will also work on the xbox360 is close to 200

3 Million xbox360 's to be sold in the first 3 months

2005-11-10T22:13:00.000Z

Microsoft is expecting 3 Million xbox360 's to be sold in the time span of just 90 days after the world wide release of the system. Chief Financial Officer, Bryan Lee also included the estimate that people would spend $1.5 Billion the first 3 months for other xbox360 products - like Xbox Live.

Xbox360 Core System

2005-11-08T21:20:00.000Z

This is an image of the Xbox360 core system

The hunt for the stolen Xbox360

2005-10-12T17:18:00.000+01:00

The hunt in Europe continues for some of the ten Xbox360 development kits that were stolen from a German Warehouse,

Microsoft fears they may have fallen into the hands of hackers. A shipment of ten dev kits were delivered to a warehouse in Germany in unmarked packaging.

They were to be distributed to developers who could use them to create games for the console. However, the shipment went missing and photographs of the kits with the serial numbers removed surfaced on the Internet.

An investigation has already recovered three Xbox360's from several raids in Austria and Germany, but the other seven haven't turned up yet.

Real Networks making games for Xbox360 Live

2005-10-12T17:12:00.000+01:00

RealNetworks will be making its titles accessible over the Xbox360 Live Arcade. The service which is available in the forthcoming Xbox360 console.

Microsoft is eager to position the Xbox360 console as an extension of the Windows XP media edition rather than as a system for accessing online content in its own right.

Launch titles named for 360

2005-10-06T19:21:00.000+01:00

The first wave of games for the new Xbox360 console from Microsoft have been announced.

More than 200 new titles are being developed for the next generation console the Xbox360.

Notable by its absence was Halo 3, which some had hoped would be among the early titles available for the machine.

The Xbox360 in three colors

2005-10-06T18:38:00.000+01:00

Xbox360 Controller for sale on ebay

2005-09-28T22:01:00.000+01:00

This is the new controller for the xbox360 which also works with any PC running Windows XP via USB. You can't even buy this yet, but I got one when I attended a game developer's conference hosted by Microsoft claims the seller

xbox360 controler auction

The Xbox360 Display Case

2005-09-02T22:30:00.000+01:00

The xbox360 in a display case

Xbox360 Display Case

2005-09-02T22:14:00.000+01:00

The xbox360 in a display case

Xbox360 to have two versions

2005-08-21T19:07:00.000+01:00

Source: Gamesindustry.biz

Xbox360 to ship at $299 with no hard drive, $399 for high-end version
Rob Fahey 10:04 17/08/2005
Price points set in place for next-generation launch; European details awaited

The LA Times has broken news of Microsoft's pricing plans for the Xbox 360 console, revealing that the a basic version of the next-generation system will launch at $299, with a premium version shipping at $399.

According to the paper, the $299 version of the console will not include a hard drive - with the extra $100 for the premium version buying a 20Gb drive as well as a wireless controller, headset, Ethernet cable and wireless television-style remote control.

No exact date for the launch is mentioned in the brief article, which will appear in this morning's edition of the major broadsheet, but has already been published on the newspaper's website.

Full Article here.

xbox360 dashboard screenshot

2005-08-02T13:50:00.000+01:00

Source: http://forum.teamxbox.com/showthread.php?p=5270614#post5270614

xbox360 live video chat and poker

2005-08-02T13:45:00.000+01:00

Source: http://forum.teamxbox.com/showthread.php?p=5270614#post5270614

Xbox360 Media Center screenshot

2005-08-02T13:42:00.000+01:00

Source: http://forum.teamxbox.com/showthread.php?p=5270614#post5270614

Xbox360 Live Marketpalce Screenshot

2005-08-02T13:33:00.000+01:00

Source: http://forum.teamxbox.com/showthread.php?p=5270614#post5270614

The Xbox360 in Black

2005-07-12T23:09:00.000+01:00

Ring of Light and Xbox Guide Button:

2005-06-28T16:49:00.000+01:00

Divided into four quadrants, the glowing Ring of Light and Xbox360 Guide Button visually connect you to your games, digital media, and the world of Xbox3660 Live, the first global, unified online console games service. Featured on both the wireless and wired controllers, the Xbox360 Guide Button puts you in control of your experience. In addition to bringing up the Xbox360 Gamer Guide and the Xbox360 System Guide, the Xbox360 Guide Button lets you turn the system on and off without ever leaving the couch.

Xbox360 live headset

2005-06-25T19:01:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 live headset features a boom microphone which can be adjusted for optimal sound quality. An In-line volume control and mute switch lets the user adjust the headset volume or switch mute on and off easily. The noise-canceling microphone improves game response to voice commands, and provides crisp and clear voice communication over xbox live and lightweight, over-the-head design enables comfortable use. The headset plugs directly into either the Xbox360 Controller or Xbox360 Wireless Controller for easy use

To be honest I think it looks a little flimsy, but it could just be a prototype

Xbox360 Media Remote

2005-06-24T17:33:00.000+01:00

Power the Xbox360 system on or off without leaving the couch. The Xbox360 Guide Button allows for easy navigation of the Xbox360 Gamer Guide. The remote supports universal TV and console functionality, including volume and mute buttons and up-and-down channel changing. Windows® XP Media Center Edition Button and Media Center Edition functionality are featured. A, B, X, and Y buttons are included for basic control of the Xbox360 system, even without a controller. Numbered and backlight keypad gives you full functionality, even in the dark.

xbox360 network adaptor

2005-06-21T17:31:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 Wireless Network Adapter is highly versatile and supports 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11a. The Xbox360 Wireless Network Adapter is powered seamlessly by your Xbox360 gaming console, so there's no external power adapter to plug in.

2005-06-20T21:40:00.000+01:00

Transport the Memory Unit in the portable carrying case that fits on your keychain. The Memory Unit (64 MB) requires no setup. Just plug it in, and save your favorite games. Xbox360 holds up to two Memory Units, so gamers can easily upgrade to more storage space.

2005-06-20T17:07:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 Play & Charge Kit allows you to never miss a beat when playing your favorite games. If the battery pack is running low, just plug in the cable and keep playing without interruption. The Play & Charge Kit for Xbox360, with included Rechargeable Battery Pack, is a convenient and low cost way to recharge your Xbox360 Wireless Controller.9 foot long Play & Charge Cable (No break-away.) The Xbox360 Rechargeable Battery Pack snaps directly onto the Xbox360 Wireless Controller. Charge your Xbox360 Wireless Controller between gaming sessions by plugging in the Play & Charge Cable. The Rechargeable Battery Pack (included) provides between 30 and 35 hours of game play with normal use of rumble per full battery charge. A Green LED indicator will shine when the battery pack is fully charged. A Red LED indicator will let you know when the battery pack is still charging to reach its full charge capacity. The Play & Charge Cable fully recharges your Wireless Controller in 6 to 8 hours. NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) Rechargeable Battery Cell. Additional Xbox360 Rechargeable Battery Packs sold separately

Xbox360 forum now live

2005-06-18T17:46:00.000+01:00

The xbox360 forum is now live on the xbox360 site

2005-06-18T12:45:00.000+01:00

This could be the removable battery pack to the xbox360's wireless controler... nothing has been confirmed as of yet so only time will tell
playstation 3

2005-06-18T12:44:00.000+01:00

thsi could be the wireless xbox360 controler recharger lead
playstation 3

2005-06-17T23:38:00.000+01:00

A selection of intresting close up images of the xbox360
playstation 3

Xbox360 Graphics

2005-06-17T16:17:00.000+01:00

Ever since the announcement that ATI were working with Microsoft on "Future Xbox360 technologies" the rumour mill has been working overtime as to the graphics behind it. Some of the messages since the announcement of the XBOX360, the eventual console ATI's work will appear in, have not necessarily been reflective of the actual operation and even a little contradictory from representatives directly from ATI. With strict NDA's and designs being built for two different competitive consoles, very tight controls of what could be talked about had to be implemented within ATI, and the XBOX360 group operated very much within their own silo; it wasn't until Microsoft lifted the NDA's that ATI could even speak of it on a wider internal basis, let along externally, and even then there is a lot of information to gather.Since XBOX360's announcement and ATI's unleashing from the non disclosure agreements we've had the chance to not just chat with Robert Feldstein, VP of Engineering, but also Joe Cox, Director of Engineering overseeing the XBOX360 graphics design team, and two lead architects of the graphics processor, Clay Taylor and Mark Fowler. Here we hope to accurately impart a slightly deeper understanding of the XBOX360 graphics processor, how it sits within the system, understand more about its operation as well as give some insights into the capabilities of the processor. Bear in mind that we are under NDA for some of the operational details of the graphics processor to gain an understanding of how it differs from current platforms however some of the specifics won't be revealed in full detail in this article.

Xbox360 to have Fonix Voice Technology

2005-06-14T17:04:00.000+01:00

Fonix Speech, an operating division of Fonix® Corporation (OTC BB: FNIX), an integrated communications carrier providing telecommunications services and value-added speech technologies, announces an agreement to continue to deliver Fonix voice command technology the Xbox360TM videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft."By incorporating Fonix's speech recognition technology into our Xbox360 development kit, game developers can give players a fun and natural way of interacting with their games.""Working with Microsoft enables Fonix to offer market-leading voice command solutions for next-generation products and to offer new interface possibilities for game developers and players," says Tim K. Hong, VP, Fonix Games. "Fonix looks forward to contributing to a new generation of videogames as developers use Xbox360 to showcase greater possibilities for voice recognition in games."Xbox360 games currently shipping with Fonix voice command technology include Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six 3, Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six 3 Black Arrow, Tom Clancy Rainbow Six: Lockdown, and Tom Clancy Ghost Recon 2, all published by Ubisoft, Delta Force-Black Hawk Down, published by Novalogic and SWAT: Global Strike Team, published by Vivendi Universal Games.

Logitech to manufacture licensed Xbox360 peripherals

2005-06-10T22:11:00.000+01:00

Logitech today announced plans to manufacture officially licensed peripherals for the Xbox360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. Logitech currently makes a family of award-winning controllers for Xbox, featuring gamepads, a steering wheel and a headset.
"One of the best ways for gamers to take advantage of the graphics, games and processing speed of Xbox360 is with first-class peripherals," said Fred Swan, Logitech's director of strategic marketing for interactive entertainment. "Like our current controllers, the products for Xbox360 will be designed to give gamers the edge they want -- and need -- to be the best."

Now Live

2005-06-08T18:35:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 site is now live

2005-06-07T18:40:00.000+01:00

face plate designs for the xbox360
playstation 3

Xbox360 release date announced 29/11/05

2005-06-02T19:17:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 release date has been anounced as the 29/11/05

Check out the xbox360 games on pre-order at Play.com

Xbox360 Games List

2005-05-27T17:25:00.000+01:00

The following games are going to be made available for the xbox360 platform

Amped® 3 for xbox360
Call of Duty® 2 for xbox360
Condemned: Criminal Origins™ for xbox360
Dead or Alive® 4 for xbox360
Dead Rising for xbox360
Demonik for xbox360
Dark Sector™ for xbox360
FINAL FANTASY® XI for xbox360
Frame City Killer™ for xbox360
Full Auto™ for xbox360
Gears of War® for xbox360
Huxley for xbox360
Kameo™: Elements of Power™for xbox360
Madden™ NFL 06 for xbox360
Metronome for xbox360
NBA 2K6 for xbox360
NBA Live 06 for xbox360
NCAA® Football 06 for xbox360
Need for Speed™ Most Wanted for xbox360
NHL® 2K6 for xbox360
Peter Jackson’s King Kong™ for xbox360
Project Gotham Racing® 3 for xbox360
QUAKE™ 4 for xbox360
Saint's Row for xbox360
Test Drive® Unlimited for xbox360
The Darkness for xbox360
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion for xbox360
FIFA 2006 for xbox360
The Godfather™ The Game for xbox360
The Outfit™ for xbox360
Tiger Woods PGA TOUR® 06 for xbox360
Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon® 3 for xbox360
Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland for xbox360
Top Spin™ 2 for xbox360

2005-05-24T17:52:00.000+01:00

Another stunning shot of the xbox360
playstation 3

Xbox360 Wireless Controller

2005-05-23T20:23:00.000+01:00

Xbox360 Wireless Controller

High-performance wireless gaming is here! Using optimized technology, the Xbox360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on two AA batteries—and when they run low, you're given ample warning so you can connect a Play & Charge cable for uninterrupted play. Plug the Xbox360 Headset into the controller for full duplex voice communication: a wireless first. With quick access to Xbox360 features including DVDs, music, pictures, and more, along with the ability to support four wireless controllers simultaneously, gamers can experience wireless freedom, precision, high quality, and performance for endless gameplay.

It's cordless—no cables to plug in—with a 30-foot wireless range.
The controller features integrated 2.4GHz high-performance wireless technology.
New and improved ergonomic design enables maximum comfort and endless gameplay.
New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use.
Two analog pressure-point triggers, two vibration feedback motors, and one eight-way directional pad are included.
Experience an unprecedented level of Rumble Control. Set the Rumble Control to Full, Medium, Low, or Off to match your personal preference.
The Xbox Guide Button at the center of the controller gives you quick access to all your favorite Xbox 360 system activities, such as watching movies, listening to music, contacting friends on Xbox Live, and customizing your gaming experiences. Easily jump to the Xbox Gamer Guide or Xbox Live Marketplace.

Xbox360 Controller

2005-05-22T18:27:00.000+01:00

Based on the acclaimed design of the Xbox360 Controller S, the Xbox360 Controller features an extended nine-foot cable and an improved ergonomic design. The centralized, glowing Xbox360 Guide Button grants you quick access to your digital movie, music, and games libraries. The ultimate in gamer flexibility, precision, control, quality, and comfort are all yours.

New and improved ergonomic design enables maximum comfort and endless gameplay.
New left and right shoulder buttons are designed for ease of use of the xbox360
Two analog pressure-point triggers, two vibration feedback motors, and one eight-way directional pad are included.
The controller includes a nine-foot (nearly three-meters) break-away controller cable.
Experience an unprecedented level of Rumble Control. Set the Rumble Control to Full, Medium, Low, or Off to match your personal preference of xbox360 vibration.
A port for your Xbox360 Headset is included.
The Xbox Guide Button at the center of the controller gives you quick access to all your favorite Xbox360 system activities, such as watching movies, listening to music, contacting friends on Xbox360 Live, and customizing your gaming experiences. Easily jump to the Xbox Gamer Guide or Xbox360 Live Marketplace.

Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter

2005-05-20T19:59:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 Wireless Network Adapter removes the need to use and ethernet cable to access xbox360 live Xbox360 Wireless Network Adapter allows the xbox360 to connect with computers and other wireless accessories that support the same standards such as wireless access points and modems. The Xbox360 wireless network adapter and be used to transfer videos and music to the Xbox360 system from your Media Center PC, chat with your friends, play games via Xbox360 Live.

The Xbox360 Wireless Network Adapter is highly versatile and supports 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11a.
The Xbox360 Wireless Network Adapter is powered seamlessly by your Xbox 360 gaming console, so there's no external power adapter to plug in.
You can transfer high-definition video and CD-quality music from your Media Center PC to your Xbox360 via 802.11a wireless media support.

No pictures as of yet, but here is me hoping its not some huge, ugly and clumpy box, that doesn't look anything like the xbox360

Xbox360 Headset....

2005-05-19T19:29:00.000+01:00

Xbox360 headset for xbox360 live... Nothing new here....

Boom microphone can be adjusted for optimal sound quality.
In-line volume control and mute switch let users adjust the headset volume or switch mute on and off easily.
Noise-canceling microphone improves game response to voice commands, and provides crisp and clear voice communication.
Lightweight, over-the-head design enables comfortable use.
The headset plugs directly into either the Xbox360 Controller or Xbox Wireless Controller for easy use.

I think Microsoft should also have a mic and speakers for the xbox360 that work like a speaker phone... It would be a lot easer than having a headset clamped to your head. I'd forget it was there, get up and walk off with xbox360 in tow.... Haven't seen any pics of it yet, but I hope its nice..

Xbox360 Universal Media Remote

2005-05-18T17:58:00.000+01:00

The Xbox360 Universal Media Remote was engineered to serve as your integrated control center for the entire Xbox360 experience. Enter a new world of digital entertainment with the touch of a single button. Play DVD movies and music, plus control your TV and your Media Center PC with one controller. The centralized, glowing Xbox360 Guide Button gives you quick access to your digital movies, music, and games library, and backlit buttons make the keypad easy to see in a darkened home theater. So kick back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Power your Xbox 360 system on or off without leaving the couch.
The Xbox Guide Button allows for easy navigation of the Xbox Gamer Guide.
The Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote includes control buttons for your music, pictures, and more.
The Xbox 360 supports progressive-scan for DVD playback functionality, including a control for opening and closing the tray.
The remote supports universal TV and console functionality, including volume and mute buttons and up-and-down channel changing.
Windows® XP Media Center Edition Button and Media Center Edition functionality are featured.
A, B, X, and Y buttons are included for basic control of your Xbox 360 system, even without a controller.
Numbered and backlight keypad gives you full functionality, even in the dark.

Lets just hope it comes as standard and on an overpriced addon!

2005-05-17T17:47:00.000+01:00

Here are 5 sample xbox360 face designs....
xbox

2005-05-17T17:45:00.000+01:00

an image of the xbox360 controler cable... I'm not sure how accurate it is, for a start its not even the right colour
xbox

xbox360 Memory Unit

2005-05-17T17:15:00.000+01:00

Don't worry the xbox still has a hardrive but like before its' also got removable memory.

xdbox360 memory untits start at 64MB and they anything like usb pen drives the capacity will go up to 128MB and then 256Mb and then 512Mb ..... and possible even 1GB but i dont think it will go that high when it launches.

the xbox360 memory unit will be small enough to fit on a key chain, requires no set up and up to 2 memory untits can be pluged into the xbox360 at anyone time.

I dont have any pictures are present, but will do some digging around....

2005-05-16T23:35:00.000+01:00

i high quality image of the xbox360 controler.. i'm off now to go and find some images of the controler cables, i ahve seen one picture circulating on the internet, but the cable was black???
xbox

2005-05-16T23:33:00.000+01:00

a high res image of the xbox360 and controler together....
xbox

xbox360 front plates/ faces/ facias

2005-05-16T17:34:00.000+01:00

the xbox360 will have removable faces alowing gamers to customize their xbox360 consoles.

the interchangable faceplates allow you to express your self an create an xbox360 console like no other. The faces will be highly versatile and easy to change while remaining at the cutting edge of design.

changing your xbox360 face will still allow you to maintain full functionality of your system regardless of what face you choose.

copies of limited edition faces will be available.... think about it there my even be a Halo 3 face...

xbox360 camera

2005-05-15T22:53:00.000+01:00

Xbox360 Live Camera
The Xbox Live Camera for Xbox 360 creates an online comunity with video chat and video messaging service. It can be used to connect and communicate with others while playing the same or diffrent games, listening to music and watching movies.

The xbox360 live camera also brings a new dimention of interaction in video games allowing players to put their faces on characters in the games

xbox360 camera stats

High-end online camera supports up to VGA 640x480 video at 30 frames per second and takes 1.3-megapixel still photos.
The camera includes a microphone that connects to the controller, so everyone in the room can chat online with their friends.
The camera supports built-in video chat and video messaging on Xbox Live.
Your face can be imported into games and can also be placed next to your name on leader boards for even more recognition or fame.
Chat with your friends while you play online in Xbox 360 games as well as in the Xbox Live Arcade.

more about what the xbox360 can do & xbox360 specifications

2005-05-14T14:07:00.000+01:00

what can the xbox 360 do?

play progressive scan movies out of the box
connect to a portable media player such as an standard mp3 player or an ipod, connect to a portable movie player

xbox360 specifications

Xbox 360 System Performance SpecificationsCustom IBM PowerPC-based CPU
Three symmetrical cores running at 3.2 GHz each
Two hardware threads per core; six hardware threads total
VMX-128 vector unit per core; three total
128 VMX-128 registers per hardware thread
1 MB L2 cacheCPU Game Math Performance
9 billion dot product operations per secondCustom ATI Graphics Processor
10 MB of embedded DRAM
48-way parallel floating-point dynamically scheduled shader pipelines
Unified shader architecturePolygon Performance
500 million triangles per secondPixel Fill Rate
16 gigasamples per second fill rate using 4x MSAAShader Performance
48 billion shader operations per secondMemory
512 MB of 700 MHz GDDR3 RAM
Unified memory architectureMemory Bandwidth
22.4 GB/s memory interface bus bandwidth
256 GB/s memory bandwidth to EDRAM
21.6 GB/s front-side busOverall System Floating-Point Performance
1 teraflopStorage
Detachable and upgradeable 20GB hard drive
12x dual-layer DVD-ROM
Memory Unit support starting at 64 MBI/O
Support for up to four wireless game controllers
Three USB 2.0 ports
Two memory unit slotsOptimized for Online
Instant, out-of-the-box access to Xbox Live features with broadband service, including Xbox Live Marketplace for downloadable content, gamer profile for digital identity, and voice chat to talk to friends while playing games, watching movies, or listening to music
Built-in Ethernet port
Wi-Fi ready: 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g
Video camera readyDigital Media Support
Support for DVD-Video, DVD-ROM, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, CD-DA, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, WMA CD, MP3 CD, JPEG Photo CD
Ability to stream media from portable music devices, digital cameras and Windows XP-based PCs
Ability to rip music to the Xbox 360 hard drive
Custom playlists in every game
Built-in Media Center Extender for Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005
Interactive, full-screen 3-D visualizersHigh-Definition Game Support
All games supported at 16:9, 720p, and 1080i, anti-aliasing
Standard-definition and high-definition video output supportedAudio
Multi-channel surround sound output
Supports 48KHz 16-bit audio
320 independent decompression channels
32-bit audio processing
Over 256 audio channelsSystem Orientation
Stands vertically or horizontallyCustomizable Face Plates
Interchangeable to personalize the console

what can the xbox360do?

2005-05-14T14:01:00.000+01:00

the xbox 360 can:

play xbox 360 games
play dvds
possibly have backwards compatibility for the xbox
stream HD movies from a win xp pc to your tv
steam music from your win xp pc to your tv
play digital mucic
display photos and movie clips
connect, express, colaborate and compleate

2005-05-13T23:54:00.000+01:00

the lump on the underneath of the controler may possibly be housing for batteries, the 3 gaps in the casing just bellow this are for the controller cable which are detatchable
xbox

2005-05-13T23:51:00.000+01:00

the side view of the new xbox360 controler the blue,red, green and yellow x,y,a&b buttons have retained their format from the first xbox console
xbox

2005-05-13T23:50:00.000+01:00

i believe the controlers are wireless, but the appear to retain connections for charging and for using with wires
xbox

2005-05-13T23:49:00.000+01:00

the front of the controler, the green light circle may possibly light up
xbox

2005-05-13T23:48:00.001+01:00

the rear of the controler
xbox

2005-05-13T23:48:00.000+01:00

in this shot the front of the xbox 360 is shown, the green power light appears to also be part of the on button mechanism
xbox

2005-05-13T23:46:00.000+01:00

this is a side view of the xbox, the words "xbox 360" are ingraved onto the side
xbox

2005-05-13T23:45:00.000+01:00

the back of the xbox360 the port shown is probbably the video and audio output
xbox

2005-05-13T23:44:00.000+01:00

the latest images of the xbox360
xbox

2005-05-13T17:20:00.000+01:00

News: the xbox 360 is previewing today on MTV check out xbox.com for the showing times in your region
xbox

2005-05-13T08:32:00.000+01:00

exbox west side
xbox

2005-05-13T08:30:00.001+01:00

exbox east side!!!
xbox

2005-05-13T08:30:00.000+01:00

this is the cable thingimy jig which attatches to the controler and the exbox its self.. i really have no idea why it is designed like this
xbox

2005-05-12T22:08:00.000+01:00

the xbox can also be called the exbox360
xbox

2005-05-12T21:22:00.000+01:00

another shot of the xbox s controler anbd its cable
xbox

2005-05-12T21:10:00.000+01:00

the front end of the good ole exbox
xbox

2005-05-12T21:09:00.000+01:00

a nice jumble of wires.... the ps2 and xbox together again like birds of a feather
xbox

2005-05-12T20:15:00.000+01:00

i am also in the position of temporarly holding a ps2 (playstation2) for its owner who is in serious debit and is worryed the baliffs will come round and clear him out
xbox

2005-05-12T20:11:00.000+01:00

this is a front shot of my xbox, one morning after a night of drinking i was playing on the xbox in the front room and managed to spill copious ammount of porrage on it, after that i never ate poredge again
xbox

2005-05-12T19:59:00.000+01:00

this is the other end othe the av cable, the connector pictures plugs into the back of the xbox just below the ethernet port
xbox