11-15-2005, 06:46 PM
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Preview of 360 it is Pricey
Pittsburgh Sun Times Reviews the 360
Quote:
The battle for video-game supremacy starts in one week.
Tuesday, Nov. 22, is when Microsoft begins selling its newest -- and highly anticipated -- console, the Xbox 360.
The Sun-Times got an early look at what surely will be a much-sought-after holiday gift. Featuring lightning-quick load times and hyper-realistic graphics, it smokes every other console out there -- just as you'd expect. Be prepared, though, to shell out a lot of cash.
The core Xbox 360 system runs $299, and the upgraded premium model goes for an extra $100. But both will do more than just play games; they also are able to play DVDs, download music and store photos.
While serious gamers and novices will see little difference in game play, the hefty price tag (the current Xbox runs about $150) is worth it because of the upgrade in graphics and power. Most gamers will probably want to splurge and buy the premium edition, which includes such must-have accessories as a wireless controller, headset and detachable hard drive that lets you take the game with you. Sold separately, those accessories would cost an additional $225.
XBOX 360
When: Hits stores Nov. 22
Price: $299 for the core system (includes console, wired controller and AV cable). $399 for premium edition (includes console, 20 GB detachable hard drive, wireless controller, headset and HD AV cables)
Games: Sold separately ($59.99 each)
Specs: display of 720p/1080i, 2 USB ports, wi-fi-ready
The new console is much sleeker than its predecessor. The original Xbox never really caught on in Asia, and many analysts blamed its bulky design. Microsoft partnered with two design firms for the 360, Astro Studios in San Francisco and Hers Experimental Design Laboratory in Osaka, Japan.
Like the Sony PlayStation 2, the 360 can stand vertically or horizontally, and it's only slightly larger than a digital cable box. Optional faceplates -- a great way to customize your Xbox -- also will be available at launch.
Grass is greener on high-def TV
The new unit was designed for high-definition TV. We tested the unit at home on both a standard television and an HDTV on the highest resolution possible. On the standard TV, the graphics were better than those on the current Xbox, but things were really noticeable on the HDTV.
In "Madden," snowflakes randomly fell during a Bears game at Soldier Field, and it was cold enough to see the players' breath. With "Tiger Woods" you could make out the individual blades of grass better in high-definition. Everything was just crisper, which means if you don't currently own an HDTV, this could prompt you to buy one now.
Xbox 360 is built to be online every minute you play, making a broadband connection essential. Both the premium and core 360 units come with a free Xbox Live silver membership that will enable you to send and receive voice and text messages as well as download free game demos and premium content such as vintage arcade games. If you want to play your friends around the globe, you'll need to upgrade your Xbox Live account to the gold package ($69.99 a year).
Coming in spring: PS3
The extra services are worth it. Microsoft has put a lot of effort into revamping online play, and with the Xbox 360 has come enhanced matchmaking, pairing you with players with similar game scores and abilities around the world.
Microsoft is hoping the latest version of its gaming console will help propel it closer to its main rival, Sony. Currently, Xbox is the second in the console sales wars, well behind Sony's PlayStation2. Sony is going to be offering its newest console, the PS3, next spring.
Factor in a couple of games (at $59.99 each), and an Xbox 360 buyer easily can spend $600. Serious gamers will find it's worth it for cutting-edge technology, mind-boggling graphics and neighborhood bragging rights. Novices will just think it's plain cool.
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