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Microsoft Xbox 360 (20GB)

Manufacturer: Microsoft Corp. Part number: B4J-00001

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CNET Editor rating:
4.0 stars Excellent
Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 1197 reviews

More product information:: Editors' review; User reviews; Specifications; Product series; Accessories; Manufacturer info

Bottom Line:: With its extensive digital media features, a superior online service, and an excellent game library, the Xbox 360 remains the game console to beat.
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CNET editors' review

Microsoft Xbox 360 (20GB)

price range: $167.99

Reviewed by: Jeff Bakalar
Edited by: John P. Falcone
Reviewed on: 11/19/2007
Updated on:09/11/2009
Released on: 11/22/2005

The good: All games in high-definition; easy-to-use Dashboard interface; excellent online gaming and communications via Xbox Live; plays hundreds of (but not all) original Xbox titles; doubles as a superior digital media hub and Windows Media Center extender; online Marketplace allows for easy purchases of downloadable full-scale games, mini-games, movies, and TV shows; latest version offers HDMI output with 1080p support.

The bad: Early versions of the console prone to "red ring of death" system crash; noisy exhaust fan and DVD drive; gigantic oversize power supply; no built-in wireless networking or flash media reader; DVD playback has substandard video quality; support for next-gen HD DVD movies requires a bulky external accessory; 20GB hard drive fills up very quickly; online gaming requires a paid subscription to Xbox Live.

The bottom line: With its extensive digital media features, a superior online service, and an excellent game library, the Xbox 360 remains the game console to beat.

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Editors' note: Microsoft has since discontinued the 20GB Xbox 360 reviewed here. As of September 2009, there will be only two Xbox 360 SKUs, the Xbox 360 Arcade and the Xbox 360 Elite. Please check out our Xbox 360 resource page for all your Xbox 360 questions and needs.

Microsoft's Xbox 360 was the first "next-generation" game console to hit the market in November 2005, beating the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 by a full year. Like its peers, the 360 initially suffered from a somewhat anemic game lineup and some annoying hardware and software limitations. Since its launch, however, the Xbox team has implemented an assortment of incremental improvements, even going so far as to release an updated version of the console. The result, as of fall 2007, is the best version of the Xbox 360 to date. The current model features the HDMI output with 1080p video support that was missing on the original version, as well as a host of other tweaks and improvements to the system's underlying software. Best of all, the 360 now boasts the largest--and many would argue, the best--game lineup. In addition to great games such as Assassin's Creed and Call of Duty 4, the 360 is the only console where you can play such must-have exclusive titles as Halo 3, BioShock, Gears of War, and Mass Effect. Add to that a host of impressive digital media features, including an add-on HD DVD movie player and a decent online selection of downloadable pay-per-view HD movies and TV shows.

The console's real Achilles' heel has been its unacceptably poor reliability: A vast number of Xbox 360 consoles have suffered the dreaded "red ring of death" error, a fatal glitch that renders them unusable. It's been a huge frustration for even the most forgiving 360 owner. That said, Microsoft has made amends by offering a three-year limited warranty, guaranteeing replacement of those faulty consoles. Anecdotal evidence continues to suggest that the problem afflicts mostly older consoles. In other words, those manufactured in 2007 or later--the ones equipped with HDMI ports--should be much more stable than their predecessors.

In addition to the (we hope) improved reliability, we wish the upgraded version of the console had included a few more substantive fixes as well--a smaller power supply, a quieter disc drive, and built-in Wi-Fi. Nevertheless, the addition of HDMI, a best-in-class game library, and the cheapest price to date ($50 lower than the original console) make the Xbox 360 an offer that few gamers will be able to refuse.

Xbox 360 models compared
The 20GB version (reviewed here--often called the "Xbox 360 Pro" or "Xbox 360 Premium") will suffice for most users, while those who wish to maximize the console's video and gaming prowess will want to invest an extra $100 in the 120GB Xbox 360 Elite. (The Xbox 360 Arcade should be avoided--you'll just end up having to buy the add-on hard drive later anyway, thus eliminating the apparent savings.)

Model	Xbox 360 Arcade*	Xbox 360 20GB^	Xbox 360 Elite 120GB
MSRP	$280	$350	$450
Hard disk size	n/a (includes 256MB memory card)	20GB	120GB
Included accessories	One wireless controller, composite AV cable	One wireless controller, headset, Ethernet cable, component/composite AV cable	One wireless controller, headset, Ethernet cable, component/composite AV cable, HDMI cable
Color	White	White	Black
Unique bundled items	Currently ships with five Xbox Live Arcade titles.	Currently ships with Forza Motorsport 2 and Marvel Ultimate Alliance.	Currently ships with Forza Motorsport 2 and Marvel Ultimate Alliance.
Notes	Can't download online content or play original Xbox games without the addition of an add-on hard drive accessory (sold separately).	Best price/feature mix for most users; avoid older version that lacks HDMI port.	Larger hard drive is ideal for heavy downloaders of games and video.

*Replaces the Xbox 360 Core System, which has since been discontinued

^The Halo 3 Limited Edition Xbox 360 features identical hardware, a Halo-themed camouflage paint job, and no bundled games.

Hardware reliability
As mentioned above, the Xbox 360 has been plagued by a series of hardware problems, most commonly represented by the now infamous "red ring of death"--the three flashing red lights that the console displays when a major hardware malfunction has occurred. Microsoft has yet to confirm the reason for the problem, but it's widely attributed to overheating and poor airflow within the console's innards. Since admitting to the problem in July 2007, Microsoft has extended the original 90-day warranty on all newly purchased 360s to a full year. Additionally, any Xbox 360 that suffers from a hardware failure marked by three red flashing lights is now covered for three years from the original purchase date.

Since the middle of 2007, it appears that most Xbox 360s have been manufactured with the so-called "Falcon" CPU, a 65nm processor that's said to be smaller, cooler, and more energy efficient than the 90nm version found on earlier 360s. Improved heat sinks in the consoles have also helped cool down newer units as well.

The upshot is that the newest Xbox 360s should be much more reliable than their predecessors. We'd seek out an Xbox 360 with HDMI output when purchasing, both because it's a great feature to have, and because it's a sign that you've got one of the latest models that have been manufactured. Of course, if you've already gotten a non-HDMI model, or a possibly faulty pre-Falcon model, you can at least be confident that Microsoft's expanded warranty won't leave you stuck with a lemon.

Design
When laid horizontally, the 8.8-pound Xbox 360 is 12.15 inches wide, 3.27 inches high, and 10.15 inches deep, and it's actually slightly smaller than the original Xbox, which also weighed in at 8.8 pounds. Unlike the original, the Xbox 360 can be propped up in a vertical position and, as you're probably aware, can be customized with interchangeable faceplates that cost as much as $20. Custom faceplates aside, it's worth pointing out that the beige color of the system tends to clash with the silver and black of typical AV components.

One of the reasons Microsoft was able to keep down the 360's weight is that instead of building a standard, desktop-style hard drive into the unit itself, it's gone with a smaller--and more expensive--laptop-style hard drive that's detachable from the main unit. However, unlike the PS3, which accepts any standard 2.5-inch laptop drive, the 360's drive is encased in a proprietary snap-on module. You can upgrade to a larger 120GB model for around $180--but if you're already interested in that much storage, save some money and just pick up the 120GB Xbox 360 Elite instead.

As part of the $349 bundle, you'll also get a wireless controller--the 360 has built-in wireless capabilities but only for controllers, not Wi-Fi. Each 360 console can support as many as four wireless controllers--you'll also like that a green LED on both the 360 itself and the controller indicates exactly which controllers (1 through 4) are connected. This is also true if you are playing with a mixture of wireless and wired controllers; you know who has which controller. All in all, we really like the design of the controllers. They're a slight upgrade from those that came with the original Xbox--and they're now available in several colors, including pink, blue, and black.

On the front of the unit, you'll find two USB ports hidden behind a hinged door in the faceplate, as well as two memory-card slots that allow you to take saved games and other content on the go. Those ports are where you'll plug in any wired controllers and other USB accessories that will become available, as well as cables to connect a digital camera, MP3 players, or even your iPod or Sony PSP. Many USB keyboards are compatible, but for the most part, they are strictly relegated to communication and data entry functions, not gameplay. For easier data entry, consider instead the Xbox 360 Messenger Kit, a small keyboard accessory that snaps onto the controller.

The 360 sports an infrared (IR) port on the front panel, which lets you use compatible remote controls--including nearly any universal remote--without the need for an external dongle. Furthermore, you can power the console on and off and open the disc tray with a remote or a controller--another convenient improvement over the old Xbox. By contrast, the PS3 lacks standard IR, which limits it to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi control only.

The Xbox 360 has two big design shortfalls: its oversize power supply and its incredibly noisy disk drive. The power brick is the largest you'll ever see on a consumer device--easily half the size of a cinder block. Meanwhile, the 360's DVD drive often sounds like a helicopter taking off while you're playing a game--and the system's exhaust fan is audible as well. All in all, the system is just a lot noisier than it should be--definitely more so than rival consoles from Nintendo and Sony.

Video and audio specs
The guts of the Xbox 360 comprise what is, for all intents and purposes, a very powerful computer. The customized IBM PowerPC CPU boasts three processing cores running at 3.2GHz each. We could go on and on about the detailed specifications of the system, but for the sake of comprehension, we'll hold that back. What you really need to know about the Xbox 360 in terms of performance though, is its ability to output HD graphics. Every single Xbox 360 game has been designed to output at a minimum of 720p, and--if your TV supports it--they can be upscaled to 1080i or 1080p (just choose your preferred resolution on the console's settings page). HD output is available via the included component video cable, or you can supply your own HDMI cable instead. Alternately, you can pick up VGA video adapters from Microsoft ($40) or Joytech ($20), which let you connect to HDTVs and PC monitors that offer a standard 15-pin VGA/RGB connector.

Don't worry if you don't have an HDTV--the Xbox 360's component adapter includes a fallback composite output, and the system can output standard 480i resolution with formatting for squarish 4:3 (non-wide-screen) sets.

Just like the old Xbox, the new system offers top-notch Dolby Digital audio. In-game soundtracks are rendered in full real-time surround, creating an immersive sound field that envelops you in the game world. All of the AV cables include an optical audio output, but you'll need to supply the optical cable, as well as the compatible AV receiver or home-theater system. Each AV cable also comes with standard analog stereo connections for connecting to a TV or stereo, but you'll lose the surround effect, of course. Once again, you can opt to go with HDMI and have digital video and audio handled by a single cable.

Additionally, the Xbox 360 is a progressive scan DVD player that will output a 480p signal. As of now, even when using HDMI out, the Xbox 360 cannot upscale movies to higher resolutions. If you use your 360 as a CD player, you'll have the option of ripping tracks from the disc to be used as standalone music files or for listening while playing games. Hitting the "X" guide button on your controller midgame will allow you to access and control your music as well. Accordingly, the system will lower the in-game music to allow for your custom tracks.

Dashboard and Interface
The Xbox 360's onscreen Dashboard interface is truly stellar--it's incredibly easy to navigate and explore. Comprised of color-coded blades for the system's various features (Marketplace, Xbox Live, games, media, and system), you can slide from one section of the Dashboard to the next with ease. Since the initial dashboard release, the interface has gone through a number of upgrades. Every spring and fall, a new Dashboard update adds in a number of most-wanted features that improve the overall performance and usability of the dashboard. Like the faceplates, the Dashboard is customizable, with a host of themes preloaded on the hard drive and many more available to download.

Continuing the Xbox 360's customization kick is the Gamer Card, which consists of a personal avatar--a picture chosen from a batch of Microsoft-approved images or an image you've captured using the Xbox Live Vision Camera--as well as a motto 21 characters or less in length. The centerpiece of the Gamer Card is the Gamerscore: a point-total representative of predetermined goals, known as Achievements, met in each and every game (1,000 possible points per game). It's a nice way to foster offline competitiveness between gamers, as even completely single-player games such as Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion include Achievements.

Xbox Live & Xbox Live Arcade
Xbox Live was a large success on the original Xbox, but this time around Xbox Live is completely integrated into the Dashboard. Every model (assuming access to a broadband Internet connection and a storage option--either the hard drive or a memory card) has a base-level membership called Xbox Live Silver. That offers the ability to create a list of friends, view their gamer cards, and communicate with them outside of a game via voice chat, voice messaging using the headset, video chat using the Xbox Live Vision Camera, and text messaging as well. The Xbox Live interface is completely accessible at any time during a gaming session. Simply press the silver "X" guide button and you instantly have access to any of the features of the service.

In order to play multiplayer games, you'll need to upgrade to Xbox Live Gold, which is basically the same $50-per-year service from the old Xbox. In addition to enabling online play, the Gold tier also gives players early access to some free downloadable content, such as new maps or levels for certain games.

Xbox Live Arcade refers to the downloadable casual and minigames offered on the console. More than 50 titles are available, including classic arcade games and original titles built from the ground up strictly for distribution over the Xbox Live service. While the majority of these games offer free downloadable trials, the full versions do cost money. Pricing on Xbox Live works with a points system as currency. Microsoft Points can be purchased through your Xbox 360 console or in stores via an MS Points card. Xbox Live Arcade games range from 400 to 1200 MS points--80 MS Points equal $1.

One nice improvement over the Nintendo Wii's similar Virtual Console is that the Xbox Live Arcade games are always properly formatted for your preferred screen size (standard or wide screen), and many of them allow cooperative or competitive online play via Xbox Live. Every Xbox Live Arcade game also has a set of 200 Achievement points associated with it as well--however, these points can be obtained only in the full, purchased version of the game. Furthermore, many older games offer a choice between updated HD graphics or "classic" retro looks.

Marketplace and media capabilities
MS Points can also be used toward the purchase of TV show episodes and full-length movie rentals via the first blade in the Dashboard, the Marketplace. These videos are available in standard and high-definition formats, but be warned--high-def media does start to fill space rather quickly, so the included 20GB hard drive may not be sufficient if you download a large amount of videos.

The Marketplace is also where you can find free game and movie trailers as well as behind-the-scenes videos from certain gaming events, such as gaming conventions in Europe, Japan, and North America. Additionally, the Marketplace offers premium customizable content for your Xbox 360. Gamers can download themes and picture packs that change the look of the Dashboard and your Gamer Card. These items are available for 80 to 200 MS Points, take up minimal hard drive space, and are yours to keep forever.

What is considered by some to be the most crucial feature of the online Marketplace is the ability to download fully featured game demos. Now, prospective buyers have the luxury of trying out a game days, weeks, and occasionally even months before its official release. This feature has become so popular that publishers are now making special arrangements for Marketplace demos such as the recent Call of Duty 4 beta demo. You get to make a first impression only once, so the actual quality of these demos has improved dramatically since their initial implementation.

While it's primarily a game machine, the Xbox 360 is a formidable digital media hub as well. Plug a digital camera, a flash card reader, a thumbdrive, or a music player into the Xbox 360's USB port, and if it's compatible with a Windows PC, you'll likely have plug-and-play access to browse your photos, listen to your MP3s, and play WMV videos. Digital media on your home network are similarly accessible: just install Microsoft's Windows Media Player 11, Zune software, or Windows Media Connect (all are free downloads) on any PC running Windows XP or Vista, and the 360 will be able to stream music and access photos and WMV videos from the remote PC. If your version of Windows is enabled with Media Center functionality (some versions of XP and most versions of Vista), the integration is even tighter. The 360 doubles as a Media Center Extender, letting you access live and recorded TV--including those in high-def--from the networked MCE PC.

Accessories
There are dozens of available accessories for the Xbox 360. Most recently, Microsoft introduced the Messenger Kit which includes an attachable keyboard add-on for your controller, making texting your Xbox Live friends much easier. You can also use your Messenger Kit for chatting with friends over MSN Messenger. For more communication options, there is the Xbox Live Vision Camera, which allows you to video chat with friends as well as use it in games that support it. For example, Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Vegas allows you to take a picture of yourself and map it to your online multiplayer avatar. Sick of that wired headset? You may want to look into the Xbox 360 wireless headset, which includes a rechargeable battery built into the unit itself.

A drawback to not having Wi-Fi embedded in the console is that, should you want the ability to receive a wireless signal, you'll need to purchase the wireless network adapter. Another alternative is to go with a powerline networking solution instead.

The wireless controllers accept two AA batteries, but plenty of rechargeable options are available. The best is the quick-charge kit, which allows for dual battery charging and even comes with a rechargeable battery ($12 when sold separately). Again, the snap-on batteries are a nice alternative to the wireless PS3 controllers, which lack user-accessible batteries.

The lack of a next-gen optical disc was one reason that most versions of the Xbox 360 cost less than the PlayStation 3, which includes a built-in Blu-ray drive. If you don't want to rent HD movies via the online Marketplace, Microsoft offers an HD DVD player add-on for about $180. But now that standalone HD DVD players are available for less than $200, it's not as attractive an option as it was when it originally hit the market.

The game library
When it comes to a console's lifespan, one factor can decide whether or not such a device can stand the test of time. When it is all said and done, the console with the best lineup of exclusive games will reign supreme. So far, Microsoft has done an excellent job in securing big game developers' sole allegiance to creating games for the Xbox 360. Notable Xbox 360 exclusives include BioShock, Dead Rising, Gears of War, Halo 3, the Project Gotham Racing series, and Mass Effect.

Furthermore, games that were absent (or long delayed) on the previous Xbox will be featured titles on the 360. , Resident Evil 5, and Devil May Cry 4 should all be available on the 360 simultaneously with Sony or Nintendo consoles, if not first.

In addition to the Xbox 360's growing library of games, hundreds of games playable on the original Xbox will also work with new console (via downloadable software emulation profiles, which are automatically installed via Xbox Live). The entire list of backward-compatible games is available here; Microsoft expands the list periodically, but there's no guarantee as to if or when a favorite classic title will be added. Still, considering that the latest PlayStation 3 ditches backward PS2 compatibility altogether, what was once an Xbox 360 liability is now a comparative strength.

As of December 2007, a Dashboard update will also add an Xbox Originals service to Xbox Live. This essentially offers select titles from the original Xbox for download via Xbox Live for the equivalent of $15 in Microsoft points.

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Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 1197 reviews
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9 stars

Microsoft 2.0

by ericnn24 on July 10, 2005

Pros: Developer friendly, 3 core processor, customizable face plate, free "live" network access, wireless controllers

Cons: Backwards compatiblity questionable

Summary: Where the Xbox was amazing but rough around the edges, the Xbox 360 fixes a lot of shortcomings of the original unit.

Out with the old, in with the new.

...

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Summary: Where the Xbox was amazing but rough around the edges, the Xbox 360 fixes a lot of shortcomings of the original unit.

Out with the old, in with the new. Where the original was based on off the shelf middle of the road PC technology with cool graphics, the new one is based on unrelesed 3 core PowerPC technology (Interesting IBM is now manufactoring processors for all game consoles) with cutting edge graphics.

Gone are the wired controllers, although they'll still be available as an option.

The front is now customizable, which is pretty cool when you think about it.

It's the only console that will ship with a hard drive. C'mon any Xbox owner knows that hard drive is a killer feature. Not only for games, but for also ripping your own music to play in games. That Sony isn't going to include one with their basic package is HUGE mistake-- but ya gotta cut costs somewhere I guess.

Anyway, Microsoft has improved Live network support. Everyone recieves it free, and you only pay if you want to play with others. Think about it, this will be the largest FREE voice over IP network. That's pretty amazing. You're also going to be able to sell content over the network, which could be huge. And you can watch others play.

Don't even get me started on third party support. Microsoft is pulling out all stops. They've signed up so many partners that have never developed for the Xbox before, it's simply going to exciting to see what comes out of all of it.

And Microsoft is going to be first to market, which should give them a better chance against Sony.

Sony's offering looks technically superior, but when you really think about it, developers make games based on the lowest common denominator. Look at EA. How many games from EA are developed with Xbox in mind? Uh none. They'll also PS/2 based. I'm thinking all games will now be 360 based, even if they're on the PS3.

The one misstep from Microsoft is backward compatibility. They're saying the most popular games will work, but that's going to be a problem. Sony has always been backwards compatible. Nintendo, uh, not so much, but they're making up for it now I guess with the Revolution. Microsoft needs to address this.

The one area where Microsoft may make up ground is being developer friendly. Microsoft excels at operating systems and tools.

I think the 360 will be the right console at the right time, and may give Sony some serious competition

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77 out of 89 users found this user opinion helpful.
9 stars

Looking Good

by Heythere on June 1, 2005

Pros: Sleek design

Cons: Backwards compatibility is not fully confirmed yet

Summary: I was impressed by Microsoft's marketing (subtle hinting such as OurColony) and unveiling of it's XBOX 360. I'm glad the design turned out to be what it ...

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Summary: I was impressed by Microsoft's marketing (subtle hinting such as OurColony) and unveiling of it's XBOX 360. I'm glad the design turned out to be what it is. (I'm really unimpressed and rather shocked at the PS3 design). Back to the 360, I'm not sure of the feel yet of the controllers with the new "bumper" (shoulder) buttons since it would seem oour index fingers would naturally fit on the triggers, but I hear they (controllers) feel great. As for the technology vs PS3, I see it as being pretty-much a wash. It will come down to the games and the fun factor. With XBOX Live on X360, Microsoft provides players an experience other game consoles simply cannot. (Sidenote: I have never had an Xbox Live account, but it's clearly made an impact with gamers). One last thing..I own a PS2 and not an Xbox, but I will most certainly be owning an XBOX 360. That's my take.
Updated
Best Online-Service by a landslide (including some free basic service)
Customizable console face-plate and user-interface
Apparently very ergonomic controllers
Wireless controllers (also you can turn the XBOX 360 on and off with the controller -very cool)
backed by smart people at Microsoft

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23 out of 31 users found this user opinion helpful.
8 stars

blu-soon??

by offercompleted_com on August 27, 2005

Pros: established online, wireless media center extender, much more metro

Cons: 16x dvd drive would be nice. the fact that microsoft will never win any popularity contests is making it hard to ramp up public support for it's gaming division

Summary: One thing the PS3 camp has always held over the X360 is the brand new Blu-Ray drive. Since it seems new and cool, and most people just hate Microsoft by ...

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Summary: One thing the PS3 camp has always held over the X360 is the brand new Blu-Ray drive. Since it seems new and cool, and most people just hate Microsoft by default, this has given rise to rhetoric like "the XBOX 1.5 (har har har)" and "uses the aging DVD format."

Even though the original XBOX DVD drives were 4x to 6x I was pretty disappointed when I found out that the X360 was going to have a 12x DVD-ROM drive instead of a 16x (can you even FIND a 12x drive for sale anymore?) until I found out how slow the PS3 Blu-Ray drive was going to be. In an interview with IGN a Sony spokesperson said that there was only an outside chance of the PS3 drive being 2x, and that Blu-Ray 1x = 4.5MB/s. Even at 2x (9MB/s,) it's still almost 7MB/s slower than X360's 12x DVD drive, and over 12MB/s slower than it could have been with a regular old 16x DVD drive.

Perhaps it's time to stop adding Blu-Ray to the list of PS3's credits, and time to start asking why you're being forced to swallow a new Sony-patented format with your PS3. It?s hard to agree with the point of view that Microsoft is being irresponsible by rushing the X360 to market when Sony seems to be doing the exact same thing with their console? the fact that X360 is hitting the scene first seems incidental. One would hope that Sony would add a faster Blu-Ray as soon as it's available and/or economically feasible, but what of the early adopters? Microsoft even said they might put a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD drive (if Toshiba?s format takes off) in later versions of the X360. This is probably because they want it to be the ultimate media center and would want to include high-def video playback if the public began demanding it, but in the interest of maintaining compatibility with older X360?s, it?s not likely that games would ever come on these next gen disc types.

I know how everyone likes to debate which system's hardware is better, but let's face it, both systems are about the same spec-wise. It's almost as if MS got wind of the CELL processor's specs and asked themselves, now how many G5 processors do we need to keep up with this? The CELL processor hype doesn?t exactly reek of ?emotion engine,? but even hardcore PS3 supporters must have learned to take any Sony announcements with a grain of salt. I?m not sure anyone really believed that the PS3 was going to come with a 160GB laptop-style hard drive like the original spec said.

Microsoft seems to be sabotaging itself (inevitably, I suppose) by releasing these mediocre X360 launch-title game play videos while Sony is pumping out their brainwashing pre-rendered CG videos. It's a shame Microsoft felt that it had to be first-out-of-the-gates with this one, launching with what are (for the most part, anyway,) souped-up versions of games which could have been on the first XBOX. It's making it really easy for the casual consumer to conclude what they already want to believe... that PS3 will be better.

One thing the Sony camp is right about, it all comes down to exclusive titles. Personally I think there will be fewer exclusive titles in this generation because of the similarity of the hardware/performance and XBOX's continued growth in the market. Still recognizing the fact that there will be great exclusives on both sides, let's all try not bash the other guys too badly just because you love devil may cry or because you hate halo. Neither system should be voted a 1(or below 5, really)... such a baseless partisan bias should really be reserved for presidential elections.

Since I'm not especially attached to any of Sony's current exclusive franchises, I believe I'll be getting an XBOX 360. I like the fact that it comes from an American company (that's something I think people forget when they're having their little "M$" hate fests) and that it acts as a wireless windows media center extender. If Final Fantasy XIII looks really impressive, I might be forced to get a $ony P$3, too.
Updated
I did just want to say a couple other things about the whole X360 vs PS3 thing. I'm really quite nervous about Microsoft's ability to ramp up support for exclusive titles in this generation. With the original XBOX Microsoft got developers to eye their console because it clearly had superior hardware, not so in the current generation. The main credit to attribute to the X360 is it's easier-to-develop-for-processor layout. Because PS3 was going to have such strong hardware, Microsoft decided that (since they couldn't possibly have a clear hardware edge and still be profitable in this generation) they would have to be the first next-gen system, in order to shore up developer and public support.

Not to say game developers can't adapt (especially if their jobs are at stake) but last week Tecmo president Junji Nakamura said (referring to the PS3) "Compared to the XBOX 360, it seems to be somewhat out of place with today's developers. I believe that it is having an influence on the skills and abilities of developers. You will have to change your way of thinking."

He also mentioned that X360 titles in development are costing about 20% more than previous generation titles his. I imagine the number will be similar for PS3 games. Looks like $59.99 games are on the way!

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19 out of 22 users found this user opinion helpful.
3 stars

Xbox 360=junk

by mce8972 on November 24, 2005

Pros: I'll admit it had good graphics utill it broke

Cons: I had it for 2 days untill the hardware fried

Summary: The graphics are good, but I had it for two days and the system stopped working. I called xbox surport and they said there was something wrong with the hardware ...

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Summary: The graphics are good, but I had it for two days and the system stopped working. I called xbox surport and they said there was something wrong with the hardware inside the xbox and I have to send it in. When I asked how long he put me on hold for 20 minutes untill he told me it would take 2 to 3 weeks to return it to my house. Just think waiting in line for 6 hours in the cold weather to have it for 2 days. Now I have 4 games, a faceplate, 3 extra wireless controllers, 3 weeks out of my xbox live subscription, plus everything included in the premium system. They should make sure it works before they charge $400 for one.

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57 out of 127 users found this user opinion helpful.
2 stars

What junk, breaks all the time

by JaMcKeon on September 27, 2006

Pros: Fun games, well designed controllers

Cons: ... So many expensive problems

Summary: While the games are fun and the controllers are good... the system is terrible, i've had mine for 4 months and it has broken on two seperate occassions. Now ...

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Summary: While the games are fun and the controllers are good... the system is terrible, i've had mine for 4 months and it has broken on two seperate occassions. Now keep in mind my 360 sits on a shelf, it does not move or take any abuse. With that being said, let me get to my problems; First my power supply fried out, I was not foolish with it and even kept it near an air conditioning vent... enough said. It took me 2 weeks to get a new power supply because first Microsoft customer support sent me the wrong part. Plus the tech support beats around the bush and asks questions that don't matter to me, such as, "what games do you have", "what do you play the most". These are not questions I am very excited to answer when I am stuck with a $700 worth of plastics that's not doing anything but sitting around looking nice. Second problem I ran into was my Xbox stopped reading discs; new, old, what have you it didn't matter, my disc drive crapped out in 4 months of relatively light playing. If you don't mind dealing with problems and sending your Xbox in for costly repairs (unless you get the extended warranty... which I highly reccomend if you do buy) after paying a premium price for a gaming system that is supposed to work as advertised. Then go ahead, buy it, but don't expect it to not break, everyone I have talked to has run into problems with theirs after about 6 months.

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15 out of 23 users found this user opinion helpful.
9 stars

Quit being a hater. . . this system ROCKS!

by jimmcnab on January 6, 2006

Pros: THE most amazing graphics and games available to date. Period!

Cons: Loud exhaust fan, huge power supply, no HD DVD, currently only a 20 gig hard drive

Summary: I was hesitant about buying an Xbox 360 due to all the blogging about units with troubles, red rings of death, freezing, overheating, and so on. However, after playing one ...

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Summary: I was hesitant about buying an Xbox 360 due to all the blogging about units with troubles, red rings of death, freezing, overheating, and so on. However, after playing one at a kiosk in a local store, I couldn't resist the urge. I also took into account that, before purchasing, I'd seen several display kiosks that had been up and running for at least 12 hours a day every day since launch and none of them had any troubles.
The games are incredible and will only get better as game designers push the envelope with the dual core technology contained in the console. The games that are out now are the best I've ever seen so the thought that they can and will get better makes me dizzy with excitement!
The interface on the system is very intuitive and easy to learn. I'd say you're looking at about a ten minute learning curve for that. The wireless controls are perfect.
I've owned two systems now for about a month and both have been working flawlessly from the day they were first plugged in. Not a single problem. The exhaust fans run a bit loud but you get used to it quickly. In fact, you really don't attend to it at all during game play. The power supply is also literally a brick. It is huge, but that's the tradeoff for making it an external component and keeping the console itself sleek and slender. As long as you make sure the console and power supply are unobstructed and ventilated, they shouldn't overheat or get too hot. My systems don't run any hotter than any other electrical equipment (like a DVD player, etc.).
I'm continually impressed with the features of this system. This is perhaps the neatest piece of technology I've ever purchased and I absolutely LOVE my Xbox 360. I never owned an Xbox before, but I'm a HUGE fan now.

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7 out of 8 users found this user opinion helpful.
10 stars

Microsoft burns piles of money, we benefit

by primesolution47 on May 26, 2005

Pros: XBOX: Not just a gaming system anymore

Cons: My read of the field = Price point disadvantage

Summary: Sony's ps3 has been brewing for some time now, ever since 2001 when the cell processor began development. In 2002 sony invested a billion dollars in its own chip ...

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Summary: Sony's ps3 has been brewing for some time now, ever since 2001 when the cell processor began development. In 2002 sony invested a billion dollars in its own chip fabrication facility in order to cut costs. Though the modern cell processor is a joint venture between sony, ibm, and toshiba, they will be produced royalty-free by sony in their chip fabrication facilities. On top of this, sony owns the blu-ray format rights, so drive can be included without any third party costs. This works out great for sony in the long run, too, because the popularity of ps3 will undoubtedly force the home entertainment and computer industries to warm up to the hd-dvd movie/ pc formats, and they'll make a bundle in licensing. Sales of sony brand hdtvs, especially those with the 1080p output standard will surely take off, too.

Why does this put microsoft at a disadvantage? They have to pay a premium for the 3.2ghz ibm-owned powerpc cores. Additionally, I can't see anything about the system that would make it the kind of cash cow that ps3 will do with the hd-dvd/blu-ray format. I could see sales of windows xp media center edition 2005 taking off due to the integrated media center extender, and maybe a few metrosexuals getting some face plate upgrades, but that's about it.

Remember, last time xbox came out after the playstation(2). Now with it's first-out-of-the-gate approach, they're cutting precious months off a time when they're selling xbox for (what I can only assume is) as close to their production cost as its ever been. The announcement that xbox360 will be backwards-compatible can't be helping them in this area, either (no new customers till november).

When the first xbox was about to be released, there were rumors that it would cost about $500 (at the time it was considered a $1000 gaming machine.) In actuality, microsoft's plan was to release it for $389 and after the early adopters were all tapped out, they would lower the price gradually to $299, $249, $199, $149 etc. When the late decision came down that the console would be priced at $299 (for better competition with sony) this put microsoft into an impossible position where gamers would have to buy 15 or so (non-microsoft) games before they made up the hardware losses. Though it's not clear exactly how much MS lost on hardware, it?s been estimated that at launch it cost MS around $360 (apart from advertising/development costs) and when ps2 was released sony was losing $190 per unit at launch.

With these new consoles rightly being trumpeted as two-to-three-thousand-dollar pc equivalents, they're going to be ridiculously expensive or the hardware losses will be enormous! Since I have no doubt that the xbox360 will debut at $399, this translates into expensive games, peripherals, and services. I love my xbox and I?m pretty ok with microsoft as a whole, too, but it seems like they?re at a tremendous disadvantage here. If anyone has any insight/corrections/contradictions to this, I welcome them, as long as you?re not a 14 year old saying ?YA XB0X SUCCCKS!"

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13 out of 23 users found this user opinion helpful.
5 stars

Just took a dump, SYSTEM ERROR E74

by porcha42 on January 9, 2006

Pros: Great Games and Graphics

Cons: Noise, heat and Lockups

Summary: Imagine this, premium package is $400, so so games $49-$59, extra controller $49, depending on how many games you have, you can eassiiilly rack up $800. The warranty for ...

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Summary: Imagine this, premium package is $400, so so games $49-$59, extra controller $49, depending on how many games you have, you can eassiiilly rack up $800. The warranty for this console is 90 days. My system took a dump, tried to turn it on and gave me error E74. Microsoft tech says they will fix the issue, it is a hardware failure. In the meantime, I am out a game console for at least a week. I asked them if this had happened on the 91st day, is it covered... NOOOO!! This has been happening to a lot of 360s. That means on the 91st day, you have $800 - $1000 white paper weight, marked XBOX 360. YOU BE THE JUDGE.

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9 out of 16 users found this user opinion helpful.
6 stars

Cost me $140 after warranty to get fixed

by kevinnoland on March 29, 2007

Pros: Good graphics, Xbox LIVE, Media Center Extender

Cons: Three Red Rings after 15 months

Summary: I loved this system up until two days ago when my near launch, 15 month old system got the three red lights. I am now past the warranty and MS ...

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Summary: I loved this system up until two days ago when my near launch, 15 month old system got the three red lights. I am now past the warranty and MS wants $140+shipping to fix it. Microsoft messed up the manufacturing with bad heat sync issues and now I've paid more for an xbox 360 than a PS3 20GB model which has a Blu-Ray player in it.

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4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
9 stars

Excellent online gaming, amazing graphics

by MakoBimmer on January 2, 2006

Pros: amazing graphics, speedy game-play, "the latest"

Cons: hard drive optional and hard to find! nickeling and diming to death machine.

Summary: Overall I am quite happy with the Xbox360. Unfortunately, I could only snag a CORE system during the Nov.22,2005 release day madness...thus, I did not get a ...

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Summary: Overall I am quite happy with the Xbox360. Unfortunately, I could only snag a CORE system during the Nov.22,2005 release day madness...thus, I did not get a hard drive with my system. The hard drive is ESSENTIAL for game play I am sadly realizing...storing game data, online data, personal music, etc. Microsoft should be ashamed to release a non hardrive model if it really is needed to enjoy an already expensive game machine. Wireless connection is a breeze. The controllers are comfortable. Clean, hi-tech casing.

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4 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.

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