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Xbox-360-VideoGames.com Overview and History of Xbox 360 Video Games |
Xbox 360 Video Games
Made by Microsoft and supported by some of the biggest franchises of all time, the Xbox 360 is one powerful video game console. With the ability to play high definition content (including movies and TV shows), a slick user interface, and various models at different price ranges, it's no wonder that the Xbox is the second best-selling game console of the decade. It also has a wide variety of games available on disc and some that are downloadable through their Xbox LIVE service as well. For as low as $199, you're getting a huge amount of bang for the money you'll be spending.
The one thing you'll notice about the Xbox 360 is its size. If you stand it on its side, it's about a foot tall and two inches wide, not to mention 8"deep. It also weighs on the heavy side, but at least you'll get a short workout moving it from place to place if you take it anywhere. In the box, you get the standard power and video cables, one controller, and a hard drive or memory card. Once you've hooked up the system, all you have to do is create a profile and create an avatar (same as the Wii, but better). Currently, there are three models to choose from Arcade ($149), Elite ($249), and the new "S" version ($299). The 360 Arcade comes in white only and with a 512 MB memory card. You can upgrade to a 20 GB hard drive for an extra $50 used or pay more for a larger one if needed. The Elite offers a black Xbox 360 with 120 GB hard drive, matching controller and wired headset, and two games (Forza Motosport 3 and Halo 3: ODST). The new "S" model comes with a 250 GB hard drive, built-in WiFi, all of the other goodies mentioned above, but no games are included. It also has a new design, which almost resembles a desktop PC to some gamers, runs quieter and doesn't overheat as much as the older versions. There will be cheaper "S" models coming this fall and bundles for the holiday season. One of the key features to the Xbox 360 is its online service, Xbox LIVE. Each player gets a free Silver membership right out of the box, but you'll have to go for a Gold membership to play with others online. For $7.99/month ($50/year), you get access to online multiplayer, Facebook, Twitter, Netflix (separate subscription needed), ESPN (coming this fall), and exclusive contests and demos not available to Silver members. Both members can also buy games, movies, TV shows, and avatar items using Microsoft points or cash if you want to buy one of the games on demand. You can also sync the game console with your PC using Windows Media Center, turning your 360 into an entertainment hub for the whole family. 
One of the newest additions to the Xbox 360 is the Kinect motion camera. Imagine that you're playing video games with only your body as the controller. Kinect does just that: it a 3D motion camera that tracks your movements in real time and implements them into the game that you're playing. Whether it's swinging a golf club, punching the lights out of your opponent in boxing, or teaching tricks to your new baby tiger named Skittles, Kinect makes it easier for anyone to play a game on the Xbox 360. The motion camera will be available November 4th of this year, but no official price has been set.
So what about the video games? With exclusive franchises such as Halo, Gears of War, Fable, Crackdown, and add-ons for numerous third-party titles, the Xbox 360 has some of bestselling titles ever seen. The next exclusive title to come to the 360 is Metal Gear Solid: Rising. Based on the critically acclaimed franchise (that was only available on the Playstation game console), MGS: Rising lets you play as Raiden in a brand new action packed adventure. Call of Duty is another blockbuster franchise and is continuing with their next release Call of Duty: Black Ops. If you want to get the full experience, the Xbox 360 will have all future add-ons for the franchise first from now until 2012.
There are plenty of other exclusive titles for the Xbox 360 beyond the ones above. They include Alan Wake, Saints Row, Bullet Witch, Stoked, Too Human, Project Gotham Racing, Forza Motorsport, and many more. Along with video game from third-party developers, you will be able to find something for everyone regardless of price or skill level. Aside from the exclusive titles, why should you buy an Xbox 360 over the PS3 or the Wii? The answer: price and robust multiplayer support. Compared to the Wii, the 360 offers better graphics and a wider selection of games. When stacked up against the PS3, you have a smoother experience playing multiplayer on the 360. Plus, you get the same level of graphics for less money if you buy the Xbox 360 Arcade. Add in the Kinect motion camera, titles that you can't get on the other systems, and the upcoming ESPN on-demand service, you're getting an experience that can't be found anywhere else. You can buy the Xbox 360 and the video games for it online and in retail stores everywhere for as low as $149. There are also plenty of deals, bundles, and limited edition packages available to help you save a few bucks. Some store offer used systems and games for less, which saves even more cash to buy an addition controller or whatever accessories you wish to own. If you only want the best games out there, check the reviews to find out the pros and cons of each title. The Xbox 360 has a lot to offer and will have new games, accessories, and services being added in the next coming months. The best deal out now is the 360 Elite, but keep an eye on the newly redesigned "S" models if you wish to wait until the holiday season. Interesting Websites |