Following the success of the original Xbox, Microsoft`s sequel has taken gaming to a new level. Its predecessor may well have revolutionized the gaming expertise, but this model is often a different animal altogether; it enables users to combine the graphics and gameplay of a specialist console with the interactive functionality of a desktop laptop or computer, and has become an indispensable media player at the same time as a terrific gaming tool.
Why is it so popular
In contrast to other consoles, which are purely and simply devoted to gaming, the Xbox 360 is an all-singing, all-dancing utility player that provides something to every person. Users can download films, Tv shows and trailers, so mum and dad can use the 360 in lieu of a DVD player, even though the children play Halo and Call of Duty. Teenagers can access Facebook via Xbox live, and log on to their favourite tunes via Last FM; indeed it doesn`t matter how old or techno-savvy you''re, there`s a reason to buy an Xbox 360.
But, above all, the 360`s popularity is down to the quality of gaming it supplies. Users can download the latest arcade games and demos, and battle other players on the web via wireless headsets. In keeping with its range of uses and functions, the 360 comes with a range of add-ons and extras; these consist of wired and wireless controllers, faceplates, webcams, dance mats and stylized hard drives, so users can customize their console to their hearts` content.
The history of the 360
When you`re preparing something as major as the Xbox 360, you generally try and maintain it a secret. Not Microsoft; they wanted the world to know what they were doing, creating a tornado of hype which would sweep away their competitors.
During the two-year design program which preceded the launch of the Xbox 360, Microsoft held a publicity meeting for 400 developers; threw a substantial press conference to announce the appointment of ATI as graphics processing designer; and recruited Peter Moore, a former president of Sega. Microsoft execs had been brimming with excitement about their latest project, and they wanted the world to know. Finally, immediately after two years of rumor, conjecture and sneak previews, the 360 was launched within the winter of 2005. yahoo video games
The new console was 1st produced obtainable in two principal variants, the Xbox 360 Core and the Xbox 360 Pro. In April 2007 Microsoft unveiled a third model, the elite; six months later it replaced the Core with the Arcade. Earlier this year it was announced that the Pro was to be phased out.
Innovation and future development
The Elite and Arcade models have been augmented with short-term releases to celebrate the launch of high-profile games and movies. Microsoft has rolled out special edition 360s for Halo three, Resident Evil and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, as well as unveiled a novelty yellow model for the launch of the Simpons Movie in 2007.
And, as if that weren`t sufficient, Microsoft is preparing to add one more dimension to the Xbox offering. A new Xbox 360 is most likely to be rolled out within the next couple of months, total controller-free gaming and entertainment technologies. Developed under Project Natal, this extraordinary add-on will allow users to control and interact with the Xbox without having a game controller, using only gestures and spoken commands to control their avatars. video games and violence debate
The development of the 360 shows just how far the console business has come; whereas we were when wowed by the basic graphics of a Megadrive or Master Program, now we anticipate our consoles to present lifelike image high quality, wireless connection with the rest of the world along with a host of gadgets, gimmicks and decorations. But the pace of innovation is showing no sign of slowing; expect Microsoft to bring out a host of further updates for the 360 in the years ahead. video games and violence aggression
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