xBox 360 Game Review: Dead Rising
xBox 360 Game Review: Dead Rising - Capcom know their zombies. If you're a Resident Evil fan, you may think you know Capcom's zombies, in which case Dead Rising is going to come as a surprise. This is zombie high camp, played for laughs not chills. It's played just right too, and aside from one major technical niggle, this is a game that's all about fun.
Dead Rising rapidly drops your character, photojournalist Frank West, in the middle of the zombie's natural environment, the suburban mega-mall. Nearly everything in the mall is available for use in vanquishing hordes of zombies, and when you're tired of the obvious, like literally mowing them down, you can take a break from guns, sports equipment, and gardening tools, and challenge your creativity. Just how much damage can you do with a couple of gallons of cooking oil and a carnie mask?
There are hordes, too. Dead Rising's zombies aren't fast or even overly aggressive, but there sure are a heck of a lot of them. Mobs run into the hundreds, meaning there are times when the game can be a total gore-fest. Largely, the Xbox 360 copes with this without a hitch. It's not all about undead slicing and dicing, though. Dead Rising has a plot. Frank's job isn't to kill zombies, it's to find out what happened in sleepy Willamette to make everyone so cranky and cannibalistic. Using a Case File system, Frank follows clues through his main mission, given seventy-two hours to uncover the mystery.
This makes for compelling play. It's also a total pain in the behind. Following the Case Files often means being in a particular place at a certain time. Miss the deadline and the mission is over - each Case File follows on from the one before it. It's a rare game mechanic people might recognise from Roman mystery game SPQR.
Unfortunately, Dead Rising only lets you save at designated save points, and then it only lets you have one saved game. If you miss an appointment and your last save isn't far enough back, you're screwed. Your only real option is to start all over again.
You can choose to do this with your upgraded version of Frank, though. He gains prestige points through killing zombies, taking photos, completing missions etc, which you can use to increase his abilities. You can also learn new skills by reading books, and regain health points and get temporary 'power ups' by experimenting with mixing the food you find around the mall. And pointless but fun, you can dress Frank in any of the clothes you find in the stores, in case you ever wanted to know what it was like to beat a zombie to death with a frying pan while dressed in a miniskirt and heels.
Most of the missions come down to escort duty: rescuing survivors and taking them back to the safe base in the mall's security office. Mixed in with that, though, are several survivors who've gone psychotic with the strain. These act as 'boss fights' for Frank, and are much more challenging than most zombie fights. You'll get offered a number of side-missions, too, which you can't possibly get through in the seventy-two hour mode and still catch all the Case File deadlines. You are going to have to play this more than once, and while there's some frustration in the deadline system, both the plot structure and the amount of game content make that a lot less painful. Even if you played through perfectly first time, you'd have missed so much on the side that you'd want to go back again anyway.
Dead Rising isn't the top end of Xbox 360 games graphically, but it's perfectly good enough and hardly ever chugs dealing with some very crowded screens. The sound, though, is particularly great. Loving attention has been put into ensuring that every single thing you hit a zombie with sounds just like you think it should, whether that be an oversized stuffed teddy bear or a musical instrument.
It's a real pity that the save system makes the Case File system such a frustrating pain, because otherwise Dead Rising is a great, fun game which manages to be both compelling and packed with intestine-spattered laughs.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Friday, September 18, 2009
xBox 360 Game Review: Gears of War
xBox 360 Game Review: Gears of War
xBox 360 Game Review: Gears of War - It's an odd thing to say about a game whose chief appeal is hacking enemies apart with a chainsaw, but Gears of War is a pretty game. Epic's new third-person shooter lives up to its considerable hype, the first game to really show what the Xbox 360 can do. Without graunching to a halt to load up new scenes or getting choppy when the action gets a little intense, Gears of War looks and sounds superb. Lucky, because it's not really offering a hell of a lot else that's new.
Gears of War has a setting and a plot. You can tell it's a scifi combat game, because it's got every space marine cliché you'd expect. You can tell there's a plot, because you start off with your character Marcus Fenix being busted out of prison by his old friend Dom. Fighting your way out of that acts neatly as your tutorial, and then you and Dom join the rest of the squadron you'll be spending the rest of the game with, on a mission to rescue the missing Alpha Squad. While there's a bit more background than that if you do the reading, it's not integral to the game. There can't be plot because there are no characters, just very expertly-rendered grunts who don't wear helmets so you can see how great their skin texturing is.
Gears is a 'duck and cover' game. Charging in blindly will get you killed just like you'd expect, only faster. Written down like this, sneaking from bullet-riddled wall to abandoned car and popping up long enough to shoot sounds like it would quickly get repetitive and boring. If you're not sure about how absorbing it would be, try sneaking up one someone else while they're playing. This is what great graphics and sound give you: a real feeling of tension and menace that sucks you right into the game. You can hear the locust attacks coming, bullets pinging around you as you try to manouever to outflank your enemy.
While it's short on variations in weaponry, game play, scenarios, maps, and enemies, you just might not notice, especially on your first play through. The basics are done very, very well. The weapon you'll use for most of the game, the Lancer, comes equipped with a bayonet-mounted chainsaw. On the rare occasions you get close enough to a locust to use it, the experience is deeply satisfying. It fountains gorgeous sprays of blood and makes a noise like, well, a chainsaw tearing through meat. Your big kick-ass weapon is the Hammer of Dawn, which is as stunning as you'd expect satelite-mounted weaponry to be. It's nicely restricted, though, as it can only be used outside and with clear skies. Much like the chainsaw, if you could use it all the time, it just wouldn't be as much fun.
Gears comes with three difficulty levels: casual, hardcore, and insane, which unlocks after you finish the game once. All ramp up the difficulty towards the end of the game, but you can choose your level for each play session, so if you're struggling with a particular section, you can tone it down, then back up again once you're through. That's one of the little things this game does well.
Another is multiplayer. As well as the eight-player team mode available with Xbox Live, you can play two-player split-screen co-op as well. The other player, who takes over Dom, can drop in and out at any point. The game is a lot more interesting and tactical with two players, and some levels seem particularly designed for co-operative play.
The game is a bit on the short side, and can be finished in around ten to fifteen hours. Often when a game feels short like this, it's to push players to online multiplayer games. That makes it seem a little strange that there are only ten different maps available for that. There are three different gameplay modes, but they're all minor variations on team deathmatch. It's possible Microsoft will have more online content for Gears of War coming out in the future, but with all the hype, the launch content does seem a bit scant.
What it comes down to is this. If you like third-person shooters, you're going to love Gears of War. And if you don't, you aren't. There's nothing about it to suck in people who wouldn't normally play this kind of game.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
xBox 360 Game Review: Gears of War - It's an odd thing to say about a game whose chief appeal is hacking enemies apart with a chainsaw, but Gears of War is a pretty game. Epic's new third-person shooter lives up to its considerable hype, the first game to really show what the Xbox 360 can do. Without graunching to a halt to load up new scenes or getting choppy when the action gets a little intense, Gears of War looks and sounds superb. Lucky, because it's not really offering a hell of a lot else that's new.
Gears of War has a setting and a plot. You can tell it's a scifi combat game, because it's got every space marine cliché you'd expect. You can tell there's a plot, because you start off with your character Marcus Fenix being busted out of prison by his old friend Dom. Fighting your way out of that acts neatly as your tutorial, and then you and Dom join the rest of the squadron you'll be spending the rest of the game with, on a mission to rescue the missing Alpha Squad. While there's a bit more background than that if you do the reading, it's not integral to the game. There can't be plot because there are no characters, just very expertly-rendered grunts who don't wear helmets so you can see how great their skin texturing is.
Gears is a 'duck and cover' game. Charging in blindly will get you killed just like you'd expect, only faster. Written down like this, sneaking from bullet-riddled wall to abandoned car and popping up long enough to shoot sounds like it would quickly get repetitive and boring. If you're not sure about how absorbing it would be, try sneaking up one someone else while they're playing. This is what great graphics and sound give you: a real feeling of tension and menace that sucks you right into the game. You can hear the locust attacks coming, bullets pinging around you as you try to manouever to outflank your enemy.
While it's short on variations in weaponry, game play, scenarios, maps, and enemies, you just might not notice, especially on your first play through. The basics are done very, very well. The weapon you'll use for most of the game, the Lancer, comes equipped with a bayonet-mounted chainsaw. On the rare occasions you get close enough to a locust to use it, the experience is deeply satisfying. It fountains gorgeous sprays of blood and makes a noise like, well, a chainsaw tearing through meat. Your big kick-ass weapon is the Hammer of Dawn, which is as stunning as you'd expect satelite-mounted weaponry to be. It's nicely restricted, though, as it can only be used outside and with clear skies. Much like the chainsaw, if you could use it all the time, it just wouldn't be as much fun.
Gears comes with three difficulty levels: casual, hardcore, and insane, which unlocks after you finish the game once. All ramp up the difficulty towards the end of the game, but you can choose your level for each play session, so if you're struggling with a particular section, you can tone it down, then back up again once you're through. That's one of the little things this game does well.
Another is multiplayer. As well as the eight-player team mode available with Xbox Live, you can play two-player split-screen co-op as well. The other player, who takes over Dom, can drop in and out at any point. The game is a lot more interesting and tactical with two players, and some levels seem particularly designed for co-operative play.
The game is a bit on the short side, and can be finished in around ten to fifteen hours. Often when a game feels short like this, it's to push players to online multiplayer games. That makes it seem a little strange that there are only ten different maps available for that. There are three different gameplay modes, but they're all minor variations on team deathmatch. It's possible Microsoft will have more online content for Gears of War coming out in the future, but with all the hype, the launch content does seem a bit scant.
What it comes down to is this. If you like third-person shooters, you're going to love Gears of War. And if you don't, you aren't. There's nothing about it to suck in people who wouldn't normally play this kind of game.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
xBox360 Game Review: Lego Star Wars II
xBox360 Game Review: Lego Star Wars II
xBox360 Game Review: Lego Star Wars II - Some heinous things have been done to the Star Wars franchise in the last decade or so. The Phantom Menace, for instance. The original Lego Star Wars game from Traveller's Tales was a huge surprise. They'd remembered what it had seemed so easy to forget: Star Wars was supposed to be about fun. With Lego Star Wars II being based on the 'second' three movies, there's even more potential for laughs, especially for thirty-something nostalgia junkies.
The combination of Star Wars and Lego is inherently funny anyway. Hitting things with your lightsaber and watching them disintegrate into their component Lego bricks should make anyone smile. This time you get what we wanted since we saw the first game. Lego Han Solo Lego-swaggering about with a cocky smirk on his little yellow face. Lego Princess Leia in the gold bikini.
The basic game-play is much the same as the first game. Fighting, running, a little puzzle-solving, some platform work. There's really no learning curve: this is a game that's ostensibly for kids, after all. Traveller's Tales have made a few minor tweaks, though, and they're all for the better. Combat is still ridiculously easy, but the game isn't so dominated by the Jedi characters. Leia and Han's long-range blaster attack is really useful, and they'll also auto-dodge incoming fire. Several characters have unique special attacks, and they're hilarious. Leia has what appears to be the Bitch-Slap of Doom, and Chewie does what Wookies do best: ripping the arms off Stormtroopers.
Building isn't just restricted to Jedi characters in the sequel either: it's for everyone but droids, who lack the necessary thumbs. Smashing some things up and building other things out of debris is an essential part of the puzzle-solving, and you can pretty much see fiendish game designers giggling as they decided what completely stupid thing to do with it next. That sense of fun pervades the game and effectively disguises the slightly repetitive nature of the gameplay.
The source material provides several vehicle sequences (most notably blowing up Death Stars and the speeders in the forest sequence from Return of the Jedi). These have been opened up from the first game and taken off the rails. They're a bunch of fun, but do occasionally highlight problems with the game's unresponsive camera.
You start off in the Cantina, of course, from which you can access Episode IV. Once you've finished that, you unlock both Empire and Jedi. When you've finished a level in story mode, you can go back and do it again in free play, which is your opportunity to find the enormous amount of secret content. The game itself is relatively short, but it's full of extras and unlockable levels. You can create your own characters, too, by swapping body parts about. There is no head that isn't funny on Princess Leia in the gold bikini's body.
The drop-in style of the co-operative play in the Lego Star Wars games is brilliant, ideal for families and casual gamers. You're swapping back and forth between a cast of characters anyway: the second player just takes over one of them, for as long as they feel like. Still, it seems odd that the multiplayer is limited to both two players, and local play: there's no online component at all.
This is a cross-platform game that's available for the original Xbox, so it doesn't stretch the 360's capabilities, or even make much use of them. There's a slightly better quality to explosions and reflections, but even the 360 version occasionally suffers from stutters in the frame-rate. It's odd considering the game's style makes it not exactly demanding.
Lego Star Wars II is a brilliantly fun game with a wicked sense of humor, full of amusement value for both adults who grew up with the movies, and their kids. It's not a deep experience and the gameplay is maybe overly simple, but it is deceptively addictive.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
xBox360 Game Review: Lego Star Wars II - Some heinous things have been done to the Star Wars franchise in the last decade or so. The Phantom Menace, for instance. The original Lego Star Wars game from Traveller's Tales was a huge surprise. They'd remembered what it had seemed so easy to forget: Star Wars was supposed to be about fun. With Lego Star Wars II being based on the 'second' three movies, there's even more potential for laughs, especially for thirty-something nostalgia junkies.
The combination of Star Wars and Lego is inherently funny anyway. Hitting things with your lightsaber and watching them disintegrate into their component Lego bricks should make anyone smile. This time you get what we wanted since we saw the first game. Lego Han Solo Lego-swaggering about with a cocky smirk on his little yellow face. Lego Princess Leia in the gold bikini.
The basic game-play is much the same as the first game. Fighting, running, a little puzzle-solving, some platform work. There's really no learning curve: this is a game that's ostensibly for kids, after all. Traveller's Tales have made a few minor tweaks, though, and they're all for the better. Combat is still ridiculously easy, but the game isn't so dominated by the Jedi characters. Leia and Han's long-range blaster attack is really useful, and they'll also auto-dodge incoming fire. Several characters have unique special attacks, and they're hilarious. Leia has what appears to be the Bitch-Slap of Doom, and Chewie does what Wookies do best: ripping the arms off Stormtroopers.
Building isn't just restricted to Jedi characters in the sequel either: it's for everyone but droids, who lack the necessary thumbs. Smashing some things up and building other things out of debris is an essential part of the puzzle-solving, and you can pretty much see fiendish game designers giggling as they decided what completely stupid thing to do with it next. That sense of fun pervades the game and effectively disguises the slightly repetitive nature of the gameplay.
The source material provides several vehicle sequences (most notably blowing up Death Stars and the speeders in the forest sequence from Return of the Jedi). These have been opened up from the first game and taken off the rails. They're a bunch of fun, but do occasionally highlight problems with the game's unresponsive camera.
You start off in the Cantina, of course, from which you can access Episode IV. Once you've finished that, you unlock both Empire and Jedi. When you've finished a level in story mode, you can go back and do it again in free play, which is your opportunity to find the enormous amount of secret content. The game itself is relatively short, but it's full of extras and unlockable levels. You can create your own characters, too, by swapping body parts about. There is no head that isn't funny on Princess Leia in the gold bikini's body.
The drop-in style of the co-operative play in the Lego Star Wars games is brilliant, ideal for families and casual gamers. You're swapping back and forth between a cast of characters anyway: the second player just takes over one of them, for as long as they feel like. Still, it seems odd that the multiplayer is limited to both two players, and local play: there's no online component at all.
This is a cross-platform game that's available for the original Xbox, so it doesn't stretch the 360's capabilities, or even make much use of them. There's a slightly better quality to explosions and reflections, but even the 360 version occasionally suffers from stutters in the frame-rate. It's odd considering the game's style makes it not exactly demanding.
Lego Star Wars II is a brilliantly fun game with a wicked sense of humor, full of amusement value for both adults who grew up with the movies, and their kids. It's not a deep experience and the gameplay is maybe overly simple, but it is deceptively addictive.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
xBox 360 Game Review: Saint's Row
xBox 360 Game Review: Saint's Row
xBox 360 Game Review: Saint's Row - If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then the guys who made Grand Theft Auto must struggle to get through doors these days. What they got for creating the 'urban mayhem' gaming genre was a string of imitators. Saint's Row is Volition's contribution for the Xbox 360, and while there's nothing screamingly original about it, it's a solid gaming experience.
You begin the game by joining one of the four main gangs in Stilwater, an open-ended environment where you can do everything you'd expect in a GTA-rip-off. There's lots of driving, shooting, driving and shooting, adult content and a whole pile of cussin'. Saint's Row does offer a little extra in the way of plot and dialogue, something that's apparent when you hear the voices of David Carradine and Keith David. There are still a few lines that fall flat and jokes that don't work, but at least someone felt there should be a script.
You access main-plotline missions by earning 'respect', the currency of Stilwater's gangland. While this is a pretty obvious device to make you spend time on side-missions and minigames to earn respect, that's okay. It's fun. Particularly fun is Insurance Fraud, where you throw yourself in front of cars. You get extra points for witnesses, rebound, making other cars crash - all the cool stuff. It makes for a nice break if you get bored with driving and shooting people.
Like its obvious predecessors, the gameplay in Saint's Row is completely, gleefully, over the top. Stilwater might look like the real world and be completely interactive, but there are no real consequences to actions. You can stand on the hood of a cop car and mow down pedestrians to your heart's content. Obviously, if driving prostitutes and guarding pimps isn't really your cup of tea, or you find offensive language actually offensive, this is not the game for you. There's a good variety of cars and weapons to play with, all of which have tangible differences. You can pick up your own gang of 'homies' too: they'll jump in your car at the press of a button. Should they heroically die in combat, they can be revived by administering a surgical 40oz beer. Always drink responsibly, etc.
The game is generally very forgiving. You can take a lot of damage, you heal quickly as long as you avoid getting damaged further, and should the 'worst' happen, you can either start over, or endure a quick trip to hospital - where, surprisingly, no-one administers a surgical 40oz beer. It's also really helpful. Your minimap doesn't just show you where your mission objective is, it also points out the easiest way to get there. Any driving around aimlessly will be entirely down to you.
That said, Saint's Row does have a few glitches. Getting AI-controlled characters in your car when you want them and not when you don't can be problematic. 'Tire tracks up the back' sort of problematic. The 'enemy' AI is just as dumb. Rival gang members will often stand out in the open and shoot until they empty a clip, making them ridiculously easy pickings. Cars can pop into existence on the horizon, or just vanish.
The graphics bugs are worse with the multiplayer game. Textures pop in and out, and the frame rate can get choppy when the screen gets busy. Despite that, online play is still a bunch of fun. When you've finished shooting people for kicks in the game lobby, you can choose between four modes of play, which actually play differently: Big Ass Chains, Gangsta Brawl, Protect the Pimp, and Blinged-Out Ride. And unlike some Xbox 360 games, Saint's Row lets you put together your own gang.
Nobody should ever try to take this kind of gang warfare 'down in the 'hood with my homies' type game seriously, and Volition hasn't tried. More credit to them.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 455 ] Word Count: [ 705 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
xBox 360 Game Review: Saint's Row - If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then the guys who made Grand Theft Auto must struggle to get through doors these days. What they got for creating the 'urban mayhem' gaming genre was a string of imitators. Saint's Row is Volition's contribution for the Xbox 360, and while there's nothing screamingly original about it, it's a solid gaming experience.
You begin the game by joining one of the four main gangs in Stilwater, an open-ended environment where you can do everything you'd expect in a GTA-rip-off. There's lots of driving, shooting, driving and shooting, adult content and a whole pile of cussin'. Saint's Row does offer a little extra in the way of plot and dialogue, something that's apparent when you hear the voices of David Carradine and Keith David. There are still a few lines that fall flat and jokes that don't work, but at least someone felt there should be a script.
You access main-plotline missions by earning 'respect', the currency of Stilwater's gangland. While this is a pretty obvious device to make you spend time on side-missions and minigames to earn respect, that's okay. It's fun. Particularly fun is Insurance Fraud, where you throw yourself in front of cars. You get extra points for witnesses, rebound, making other cars crash - all the cool stuff. It makes for a nice break if you get bored with driving and shooting people.
Like its obvious predecessors, the gameplay in Saint's Row is completely, gleefully, over the top. Stilwater might look like the real world and be completely interactive, but there are no real consequences to actions. You can stand on the hood of a cop car and mow down pedestrians to your heart's content. Obviously, if driving prostitutes and guarding pimps isn't really your cup of tea, or you find offensive language actually offensive, this is not the game for you. There's a good variety of cars and weapons to play with, all of which have tangible differences. You can pick up your own gang of 'homies' too: they'll jump in your car at the press of a button. Should they heroically die in combat, they can be revived by administering a surgical 40oz beer. Always drink responsibly, etc.
The game is generally very forgiving. You can take a lot of damage, you heal quickly as long as you avoid getting damaged further, and should the 'worst' happen, you can either start over, or endure a quick trip to hospital - where, surprisingly, no-one administers a surgical 40oz beer. It's also really helpful. Your minimap doesn't just show you where your mission objective is, it also points out the easiest way to get there. Any driving around aimlessly will be entirely down to you.
That said, Saint's Row does have a few glitches. Getting AI-controlled characters in your car when you want them and not when you don't can be problematic. 'Tire tracks up the back' sort of problematic. The 'enemy' AI is just as dumb. Rival gang members will often stand out in the open and shoot until they empty a clip, making them ridiculously easy pickings. Cars can pop into existence on the horizon, or just vanish.
The graphics bugs are worse with the multiplayer game. Textures pop in and out, and the frame rate can get choppy when the screen gets busy. Despite that, online play is still a bunch of fun. When you've finished shooting people for kicks in the game lobby, you can choose between four modes of play, which actually play differently: Big Ass Chains, Gangsta Brawl, Protect the Pimp, and Blinged-Out Ride. And unlike some Xbox 360 games, Saint's Row lets you put together your own gang.
Nobody should ever try to take this kind of gang warfare 'down in the 'hood with my homies' type game seriously, and Volition hasn't tried. More credit to them.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 455 ] Word Count: [ 705 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
xBox 360 Game Review: Viva Piñata
xBox 360 Game Review: Viva Piñata
xBox 360 Game Review: Viva Piñata - Rare's Viva Piñata for the Xbox 360 looks like a kids' game. The graphics are bright and seemingly simple, the piñatas are cute and cartoony, and the game is based on a children's cartoon. It's one of those games, though, that if you take the controller to 'help out' for a minute, Junior will still be kicking you in the ankle trying to get it back three hours later.
Viva Piñata is a sort of collecting/resource management/strategy/god game. It's like a chocolately collision of The Sims and Neopets. While it starts out simply and has a nicely-managed learning curve, as you level up the game becomes progressively more complicated to manage, which may leave some children (and some not-so-children) frustrated. It uses all the usual devices to get you emotionally attached to your piñatas too, so failures could bring tears. Then again, there's a subtle but definite undercurrent of disturbing in the game too, which has definite adult appeal.
Your job in Viva Piñata is to tend your garden so that it will attract different piñatas to come live in it. That means providing the things they like, whether that's lots of water to play in, the right plants, or other little crunchy piñatas to eat. When you attract new species, or grow new plants, or make a piñata change color by feeding it something peculiar, you get experience points. These points will let you unlock new content, and attract higher-level piñatas. So the game gets more complicated solely in response to your progress, which should mean it doesn't rapidly get out of hand.
You start off with an abandoned garden, a helpful little friend, some seeds, a watering-can, and a shovel. This shovel is your main tool, letting you dig ponds, plant seeds, or smack your beloved pet piñatas in the head until they break open, candy comes out, and all your other piñatas rush over and eat it. Sometimes otherwise loveable piñatas will make this unnecessary by attacking your other pets and biting chunks out of them while they're still alive. While doing this, they'll still be fluffy, cute and smiley.
You have limited space in your garden and a limited number of piñatas and helpers you can have. Some piñatas fight each other, some eat other piñatas, some chase each other round the garden making cute squeaking noises. You'll need to keep what you've got happy and in balance, and keep out or tame the marauding wild 'sour' piñatas. If you discover a new kind of piñata you simply must have, you may end up having to make extensive changes to your garden, which in turn may upset some of your existing piñatas. Managing all this will become complicated as you progress.
The game's interface and controls are geared towards children. The 360's buttons are context-sensitive, and the control scheme appears on the petals of a little flower in the corner of the screen, so you'll always know what you can do. You can choose a less-restrictive scheme for manoeuvring round your garden, but there's no way to disable the check screens every time you try to do something. You won't sell something when you didn't intend to, but you will get frustrated with the number of times you have to say 'yes, I'm sure!'.
There are achievements to work towards through the game, some of which are secret until you unlock them. Some you'll get just doing the things you'd be doing anyway, others you'd have to put specific effort into. There are also optional 'piñata central' challenges where you need to supply specific piñatas for a children's party. Oddly, your piñatas actually come back from these events intact, worth more, and with special 'happy' candy.
Viva Piñata contains just about every trick for making a game addictive. The bright, surprisingly details graphics look fabulous even without HDTV, and combined with a slight subversive self-parody element, the game has a much broader appeal than you might expect.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 374 ] Word Count: [ 721 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
xBox 360 Game Review: Viva Piñata - Rare's Viva Piñata for the Xbox 360 looks like a kids' game. The graphics are bright and seemingly simple, the piñatas are cute and cartoony, and the game is based on a children's cartoon. It's one of those games, though, that if you take the controller to 'help out' for a minute, Junior will still be kicking you in the ankle trying to get it back three hours later.
Viva Piñata is a sort of collecting/resource management/strategy/god game. It's like a chocolately collision of The Sims and Neopets. While it starts out simply and has a nicely-managed learning curve, as you level up the game becomes progressively more complicated to manage, which may leave some children (and some not-so-children) frustrated. It uses all the usual devices to get you emotionally attached to your piñatas too, so failures could bring tears. Then again, there's a subtle but definite undercurrent of disturbing in the game too, which has definite adult appeal.
Your job in Viva Piñata is to tend your garden so that it will attract different piñatas to come live in it. That means providing the things they like, whether that's lots of water to play in, the right plants, or other little crunchy piñatas to eat. When you attract new species, or grow new plants, or make a piñata change color by feeding it something peculiar, you get experience points. These points will let you unlock new content, and attract higher-level piñatas. So the game gets more complicated solely in response to your progress, which should mean it doesn't rapidly get out of hand.
You start off with an abandoned garden, a helpful little friend, some seeds, a watering-can, and a shovel. This shovel is your main tool, letting you dig ponds, plant seeds, or smack your beloved pet piñatas in the head until they break open, candy comes out, and all your other piñatas rush over and eat it. Sometimes otherwise loveable piñatas will make this unnecessary by attacking your other pets and biting chunks out of them while they're still alive. While doing this, they'll still be fluffy, cute and smiley.
You have limited space in your garden and a limited number of piñatas and helpers you can have. Some piñatas fight each other, some eat other piñatas, some chase each other round the garden making cute squeaking noises. You'll need to keep what you've got happy and in balance, and keep out or tame the marauding wild 'sour' piñatas. If you discover a new kind of piñata you simply must have, you may end up having to make extensive changes to your garden, which in turn may upset some of your existing piñatas. Managing all this will become complicated as you progress.
The game's interface and controls are geared towards children. The 360's buttons are context-sensitive, and the control scheme appears on the petals of a little flower in the corner of the screen, so you'll always know what you can do. You can choose a less-restrictive scheme for manoeuvring round your garden, but there's no way to disable the check screens every time you try to do something. You won't sell something when you didn't intend to, but you will get frustrated with the number of times you have to say 'yes, I'm sure!'.
There are achievements to work towards through the game, some of which are secret until you unlock them. Some you'll get just doing the things you'd be doing anyway, others you'd have to put specific effort into. There are also optional 'piñata central' challenges where you need to supply specific piñatas for a children's party. Oddly, your piñatas actually come back from these events intact, worth more, and with special 'happy' candy.
Viva Piñata contains just about every trick for making a game addictive. The bright, surprisingly details graphics look fabulous even without HDTV, and combined with a slight subversive self-parody element, the game has a much broader appeal than you might expect.
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 374 ] Word Count: [ 721 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
Where To Find XBox 360 Cheat Codes
Where To Find XBox 360 Cheat Codes
You know, I never really considered myself a "cheater," and I always thought cheating was a low kind of thing to do, but I'm an avid gamer and I want to get further in my games. And besides, who'd be hurt if I cheated a little here and there on my XBox games?
So, maybe it's a question of honor: I got to the end of the game WITHOUT cheating! I did it all by myself! Aw, forget it, there's no glory there...
Let's Cheat!
There are tons of websites out there offering you cheat codes. What can you do these codes, anyway?
Cheat codes aren't really cheating, they're just giving your character new powers. I mean, it's not like putting a mod chip into your machine and hacking into the game itself or anything like that. In fact, nowadays cheats are built into games in the form of "easter eggs."
Remember "Adventure" for the Atari 2600, and that wall you could pass through into the secret screen? What? OK, I'm old. I'll shut up.
Alright, how about this: In "Contra" for Nintendo... up down up down left right left right b a b a - and you have 30 lives!
Okay, so cheats have come a long way since then. Some of the things you can do with cheat codes include skipping levels, giving yourself special powers, unlimited lives, indestructibility... anything you can imagine.
Serious XBox users cheat only for experimental purposes, or so they say. With cheats, you can get ahead a little or try out some new things to heighten your gaming experience. With most XBox games, you won't accrue points the same way when you use cheats. In other words, your score won't be the same as if you had done it yourself. Still, it's fun to see what you can do!
As far back as the mid-1980's there were gaming magazines that had cheat codes. Now it's a common feature of gaming magazines. But, the best place to find cheats is online. There are websites with tons and tons of cheats for you to try out.
Here are a few places to start:
www.CheatCodes.com - This site's front page has all the game system's logos. You just click on the XBox 360 and it gives you an alphabetical directory of all the games. There is all kinds of information for each game, not just cheat codes, and you can sign up and post your own cheats.
www.MoFunZone.com - Mo Fun Zone has free downloadable games you can play on your computer. On a side bar to the left of the screen, they have a game cheats section. They also have each system's logo, and an alphabetical listing of games. One of my fave XBox 360 games is Madden NFL 07, and just looking under that game, there are at least 40 cheat codes that let you do things like get 10,000 rush yards or 500 tackles!
www.GameFAQs.com - This site has tons of XBox 360 cheats. It has lots of other special features like the latest gaming new and review too. This is a good all around gaming sight.
Aside from these sites, check gaming forums. Most forums have a section full of cheats where everybody shares their best. So, get out there and have some fun!
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 603 ] Word Count: [ 625 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
You know, I never really considered myself a "cheater," and I always thought cheating was a low kind of thing to do, but I'm an avid gamer and I want to get further in my games. And besides, who'd be hurt if I cheated a little here and there on my XBox games?
So, maybe it's a question of honor: I got to the end of the game WITHOUT cheating! I did it all by myself! Aw, forget it, there's no glory there...
Let's Cheat!
There are tons of websites out there offering you cheat codes. What can you do these codes, anyway?
Cheat codes aren't really cheating, they're just giving your character new powers. I mean, it's not like putting a mod chip into your machine and hacking into the game itself or anything like that. In fact, nowadays cheats are built into games in the form of "easter eggs."
Remember "Adventure" for the Atari 2600, and that wall you could pass through into the secret screen? What? OK, I'm old. I'll shut up.
Alright, how about this: In "Contra" for Nintendo... up down up down left right left right b a b a - and you have 30 lives!
Okay, so cheats have come a long way since then. Some of the things you can do with cheat codes include skipping levels, giving yourself special powers, unlimited lives, indestructibility... anything you can imagine.
Serious XBox users cheat only for experimental purposes, or so they say. With cheats, you can get ahead a little or try out some new things to heighten your gaming experience. With most XBox games, you won't accrue points the same way when you use cheats. In other words, your score won't be the same as if you had done it yourself. Still, it's fun to see what you can do!
As far back as the mid-1980's there were gaming magazines that had cheat codes. Now it's a common feature of gaming magazines. But, the best place to find cheats is online. There are websites with tons and tons of cheats for you to try out.
Here are a few places to start:
www.CheatCodes.com - This site's front page has all the game system's logos. You just click on the XBox 360 and it gives you an alphabetical directory of all the games. There is all kinds of information for each game, not just cheat codes, and you can sign up and post your own cheats.
www.MoFunZone.com - Mo Fun Zone has free downloadable games you can play on your computer. On a side bar to the left of the screen, they have a game cheats section. They also have each system's logo, and an alphabetical listing of games. One of my fave XBox 360 games is Madden NFL 07, and just looking under that game, there are at least 40 cheat codes that let you do things like get 10,000 rush yards or 500 tackles!
www.GameFAQs.com - This site has tons of XBox 360 cheats. It has lots of other special features like the latest gaming new and review too. This is a good all around gaming sight.
Aside from these sites, check gaming forums. Most forums have a section full of cheats where everybody shares their best. So, get out there and have some fun!
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 603 ] Word Count: [ 625 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
All About XBox 360 Mod Chips
All About XBox 360 Mod Chips
What is a "mod chip?"
A mod chip is a tiny silicon accessory that can be installed into your gaming console. It "modifies" your console, hence the name. A console with a mod chip is also known as a "modded console" or a "chipped system."
What does a mod chip do?
The mod chip takes control of your system and removes limitations that were put on by the manufacturer. It can access all the functions of your xBox 360 that have been blocked or restricted. You can import, back-up, homebrew and bypass security features. 9 times out of 10, mod chips are used to play pirated games.
Gaming consoles like the XBox 360, Play Station 3, Nintendo Wii and Gamecube are designed by the company to only play their copyrighted games. These machines also have region codes, like DVD players, so that you can't play a Japanese or Australian version of a game on an American box. In the case of the XBox, you can't play anything that isn't licensed by Microsoft, including your own creations or customized games.
The main reason for these security features is to protect against pirating games. While most mod chip users use the chip to copy games or play pirated games, there is a small minority of amateur coders and serious gamers who use the mod chip to customize their games and get more out of playing them.
Are mod chips illegal?
This is where things get tricky. In the United States, at the current moment, mod chips are legal. But, using pirated software, which is what almost all mod chip users do, is illegal. If you buy a mod chip and install it in your XBox, you will be okay, but chipping your XBox will definitely void your warrantee. It will also keep you from being able to do XBox Live.
Mod chips are illegal in the UK, but legal in Australia. They are increasingly being made illegal in more and more countries. Although some mod chip dealers have been fined and even jailed, this was usually because they offered pirating software as part of the deal. Microsoft is dealing with the problem on a case-by-case basis, but in general they are not aggressively pursuing mod chip dealers. It's possible that they let it go on because of the small minority of those who actually use the mod chip for legitimate purposes, who say, "It's my machine, why can't I do what I want with it?"
Keep in mind that mod chips do permanently alter your console, so use at your own risk.
How do I get a mod chip?
There are tons of mod chip dealers online. Most are in the $55-$85 range, although you can find them as low as $30 or $20. As a general rule of thumb, a deal that cheap is probably too good to be true. There are lots of shady dealers out there who take advantage of the fact that there is such high demand and mod chips are hard to get. Be sure to check out the dealer before you buy. I would go with a dealer that allows you to track your order.
Installing your mod chip is another consideration. They're not easy to install. It requires soldering the chip to the motherboard. If you have some experience soldering, it's a pretty easy job. But, if you've never soldered before, this might not be the best time to give it a shot.
There are some mod chips advertised as "solderless," but these are probably best to avoid. You can also get installation kits, but these will cost you. If you don't want to do the installation yourself, your best bet is probably to send your console to an installation service and have them do it. In this case, make sure they are a reputable company. Don't take any chances with your XBox!
Using a mod chip is risky. Make sure you know what you're getting yourself into before you get one!
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
What is a "mod chip?"
A mod chip is a tiny silicon accessory that can be installed into your gaming console. It "modifies" your console, hence the name. A console with a mod chip is also known as a "modded console" or a "chipped system."
What does a mod chip do?
The mod chip takes control of your system and removes limitations that were put on by the manufacturer. It can access all the functions of your xBox 360 that have been blocked or restricted. You can import, back-up, homebrew and bypass security features. 9 times out of 10, mod chips are used to play pirated games.
Gaming consoles like the XBox 360, Play Station 3, Nintendo Wii and Gamecube are designed by the company to only play their copyrighted games. These machines also have region codes, like DVD players, so that you can't play a Japanese or Australian version of a game on an American box. In the case of the XBox, you can't play anything that isn't licensed by Microsoft, including your own creations or customized games.
The main reason for these security features is to protect against pirating games. While most mod chip users use the chip to copy games or play pirated games, there is a small minority of amateur coders and serious gamers who use the mod chip to customize their games and get more out of playing them.
Are mod chips illegal?
This is where things get tricky. In the United States, at the current moment, mod chips are legal. But, using pirated software, which is what almost all mod chip users do, is illegal. If you buy a mod chip and install it in your XBox, you will be okay, but chipping your XBox will definitely void your warrantee. It will also keep you from being able to do XBox Live.
Mod chips are illegal in the UK, but legal in Australia. They are increasingly being made illegal in more and more countries. Although some mod chip dealers have been fined and even jailed, this was usually because they offered pirating software as part of the deal. Microsoft is dealing with the problem on a case-by-case basis, but in general they are not aggressively pursuing mod chip dealers. It's possible that they let it go on because of the small minority of those who actually use the mod chip for legitimate purposes, who say, "It's my machine, why can't I do what I want with it?"
Keep in mind that mod chips do permanently alter your console, so use at your own risk.
How do I get a mod chip?
There are tons of mod chip dealers online. Most are in the $55-$85 range, although you can find them as low as $30 or $20. As a general rule of thumb, a deal that cheap is probably too good to be true. There are lots of shady dealers out there who take advantage of the fact that there is such high demand and mod chips are hard to get. Be sure to check out the dealer before you buy. I would go with a dealer that allows you to track your order.
Installing your mod chip is another consideration. They're not easy to install. It requires soldering the chip to the motherboard. If you have some experience soldering, it's a pretty easy job. But, if you've never soldered before, this might not be the best time to give it a shot.
There are some mod chips advertised as "solderless," but these are probably best to avoid. You can also get installation kits, but these will cost you. If you don't want to do the installation yourself, your best bet is probably to send your console to an installation service and have them do it. In this case, make sure they are a reputable company. Don't take any chances with your XBox!
Using a mod chip is risky. Make sure you know what you're getting yourself into before you get one!
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
XBox 360 Overheating Issues
XBox 360 Overheating Issues
Since the new XBox 360s came out, there has been lots of talk about overheating issues. According to Microsoft, this accounts for just a tiny percent of all their machines, but there are an awfully lot of overheating stories out there. Lots of XBox fans aren't happy with the way they're dealing with the problem.
Here's what usually happens: In the middle of a hot game your console freezes up. This happens a few more times, and then you see the Red Rings Of Death. The RR of D is not a feature of XBox, nor a foe in a fantasy game. The RR of D means that you're machine is overheating. Some people have reported seeing an orange screen flashing as well. The Rings shut down your machine and you lose your unsaved data. What it means is that it's overheated.
Some machines overheat after hours of play, but some do in as quickly as 10 minutes. Either way, the machine is defective and something has to be done about it.
Now, you can either send the machine in for repairs, or you can fix it yourself. Lots of gamers have been peeved at Microsoft's slow response to their overheating woes. They say that Microsoft is slow to repair the units. Often, they will offer a refurbished unit instead. Refurbished machines are as good as new, so it sounds pretty good, but there are tons of stories online of defective replacement machines. Some XBox owners have gone through 3 or 4 machines, all of which overheated!
It's a pretty sad state of affairs. Overheat sufferers claim that the company's customer service is less than helpful, and that they fail to adequately take responsibility for their faulty machines.
There are a few things you can do on your own to deal with overheating. Just like any other electronics, try to keep the back of the console clear so that the hot air can escape. With a well-made machine, this shouldn't be a problem, but if you have it all the way back against the wall, it might be a factor in why it overheats.
Supposedly, the root of the overheating problem in XBox 360s is that they tried to cut corners by using cheaply made, slow fans. There are 2 fans on either side, and they are really important for cooling the console. You can always reach back there and feel if the unit feels very cold or super hot. If one of the fans is not turning, or if it is going too slowly, you might want to replace the fan yourself. Of course, it shouldn't be YOUR responsibility to do that, but considering all the headaches customers have had with Microsoft's replacement machines, it just might save you some trouble.
If you send the machine in for a new fan, they may try to gouge you for it. If you look on the web (check eBay), you can find the exact same fans that are used in the XBox 360 for as low as $10. It isn't too difficult to replace the fan yourself, and you can find schematics and tutorials online to help you.
Another minor repair you can do yourself is to put some Arctic Silver 5 on the heatsink. This is a cooling compound that you can buy online. If you apply it on the heatsink, which is located just between the CPU and the fans, it will cool down the components. People who have used Arctic Silver report great results. It seems to keep the unit from ever overheating again.
Remember also that your XBox 360 has a year long warrantee. The original warrantees were six months, but they've since extended it, and it's retroactive. That means if you bought yours within the last year, it still should be covered.
If you would like to save time and money you can fix your Xbox 360 yourself today using simple step by step VIDEO instructions and you could be playing your games again in 30 minutes starting from now!
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Since the new XBox 360s came out, there has been lots of talk about overheating issues. According to Microsoft, this accounts for just a tiny percent of all their machines, but there are an awfully lot of overheating stories out there. Lots of XBox fans aren't happy with the way they're dealing with the problem.
Here's what usually happens: In the middle of a hot game your console freezes up. This happens a few more times, and then you see the Red Rings Of Death. The RR of D is not a feature of XBox, nor a foe in a fantasy game. The RR of D means that you're machine is overheating. Some people have reported seeing an orange screen flashing as well. The Rings shut down your machine and you lose your unsaved data. What it means is that it's overheated.
Some machines overheat after hours of play, but some do in as quickly as 10 minutes. Either way, the machine is defective and something has to be done about it.
Now, you can either send the machine in for repairs, or you can fix it yourself. Lots of gamers have been peeved at Microsoft's slow response to their overheating woes. They say that Microsoft is slow to repair the units. Often, they will offer a refurbished unit instead. Refurbished machines are as good as new, so it sounds pretty good, but there are tons of stories online of defective replacement machines. Some XBox owners have gone through 3 or 4 machines, all of which overheated!
It's a pretty sad state of affairs. Overheat sufferers claim that the company's customer service is less than helpful, and that they fail to adequately take responsibility for their faulty machines.
There are a few things you can do on your own to deal with overheating. Just like any other electronics, try to keep the back of the console clear so that the hot air can escape. With a well-made machine, this shouldn't be a problem, but if you have it all the way back against the wall, it might be a factor in why it overheats.
Supposedly, the root of the overheating problem in XBox 360s is that they tried to cut corners by using cheaply made, slow fans. There are 2 fans on either side, and they are really important for cooling the console. You can always reach back there and feel if the unit feels very cold or super hot. If one of the fans is not turning, or if it is going too slowly, you might want to replace the fan yourself. Of course, it shouldn't be YOUR responsibility to do that, but considering all the headaches customers have had with Microsoft's replacement machines, it just might save you some trouble.
If you send the machine in for a new fan, they may try to gouge you for it. If you look on the web (check eBay), you can find the exact same fans that are used in the XBox 360 for as low as $10. It isn't too difficult to replace the fan yourself, and you can find schematics and tutorials online to help you.
Another minor repair you can do yourself is to put some Arctic Silver 5 on the heatsink. This is a cooling compound that you can buy online. If you apply it on the heatsink, which is located just between the CPU and the fans, it will cool down the components. People who have used Arctic Silver report great results. It seems to keep the unit from ever overheating again.
Remember also that your XBox 360 has a year long warrantee. The original warrantees were six months, but they've since extended it, and it's retroactive. That means if you bought yours within the last year, it still should be covered.
If you would like to save time and money you can fix your Xbox 360 yourself today using simple step by step VIDEO instructions and you could be playing your games again in 30 minutes starting from now!
NEW! You can get all the information and tools you need to make backup copies of virtually every video game you own with nothing more than a CD burner or DVD burner and your home computer. PLUS learn how to play all of your favorite games on your PC, no console, or mod chip needed!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Xbox 360: Great Value For Your Dollars
Xbox 360: Great Value For Your Dollars
Microsoft is considered to be the giant when it comes to developing software. But with the release of their latest game console, XBOX 360, Microsoft aims to get the greatest percent of the gaming market.
Rumors have it that Microsoft is losing in its introductory price of the XBOX 360 core consoles. They say that XBOX is sold at a loss. This is probably part of Microsoft’s plan to beat Sony’s popular game console, the Play Station 3. Microsoft gets most of their revenues in video game sales, license fees, entertainment purchases and Internet advertising.
The XBOX premium package is sold at $ 399, much cheaper compared to the $ 599 price of Sony Play Station 3. You won’t be sorry to spend that much on an XBOX. With your $ 399, you’ll get the core XBOX 360 console with a removable 20 GB hard drive. It also includes a wireless controller, a headset, a HD AV component cable and a remote control.
For those into online gaming, getting an XBOX is perfect. With the purchase of the console, you’ll get free silver membership of the XBOX Live. If you’re not satisfied with the included peripherals of the premium bundle of the XBOX 360, you can purchase extra peripherals which would amount to $ 200. Surely, you’ll have an amazing gaming experience.
If you only want to play games with your XBOX console, you can just purchase the core system. The XBOX 360 core system retails for only $ 299. You’ll get a wired controller and standard A/V cable with your XBOX 360 console. Of course, you can upgrade your XBOX package anytime. Just purchase a hard drive and you’ll get a fully featured console.
A 20 GB hard drive would cost you around $ 100. You can also get a 64 MB memory unit for $ 40. The wireless controllers which use two AA batteries cost $ 50. If you want a charger for this, you’ll have to pay $ 20 to get a charge kit. A rechargeable battery kit will only cost you $ 12. If you prefer to use a headset, you can get one for only $ 20. An XBOX remote and S-video cable both costs $ 20, while a HD-AV cable costs $ 40. You can also get a wireless network adapter for $ 100.
Gone are the days when games were only played outdoors by young children. With technology and a bit of imagination, visually stimulating games can now be played indoors.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 281 ] Word Count: [ 412 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
Microsoft is considered to be the giant when it comes to developing software. But with the release of their latest game console, XBOX 360, Microsoft aims to get the greatest percent of the gaming market.
Rumors have it that Microsoft is losing in its introductory price of the XBOX 360 core consoles. They say that XBOX is sold at a loss. This is probably part of Microsoft’s plan to beat Sony’s popular game console, the Play Station 3. Microsoft gets most of their revenues in video game sales, license fees, entertainment purchases and Internet advertising.
The XBOX premium package is sold at $ 399, much cheaper compared to the $ 599 price of Sony Play Station 3. You won’t be sorry to spend that much on an XBOX. With your $ 399, you’ll get the core XBOX 360 console with a removable 20 GB hard drive. It also includes a wireless controller, a headset, a HD AV component cable and a remote control.
For those into online gaming, getting an XBOX is perfect. With the purchase of the console, you’ll get free silver membership of the XBOX Live. If you’re not satisfied with the included peripherals of the premium bundle of the XBOX 360, you can purchase extra peripherals which would amount to $ 200. Surely, you’ll have an amazing gaming experience.
If you only want to play games with your XBOX console, you can just purchase the core system. The XBOX 360 core system retails for only $ 299. You’ll get a wired controller and standard A/V cable with your XBOX 360 console. Of course, you can upgrade your XBOX package anytime. Just purchase a hard drive and you’ll get a fully featured console.
A 20 GB hard drive would cost you around $ 100. You can also get a 64 MB memory unit for $ 40. The wireless controllers which use two AA batteries cost $ 50. If you want a charger for this, you’ll have to pay $ 20 to get a charge kit. A rechargeable battery kit will only cost you $ 12. If you prefer to use a headset, you can get one for only $ 20. An XBOX remote and S-video cable both costs $ 20, while a HD-AV cable costs $ 40. You can also get a wireless network adapter for $ 100.
Gone are the days when games were only played outdoors by young children. With technology and a bit of imagination, visually stimulating games can now be played indoors.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 281 ] Word Count: [ 412 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
How To Save Money When Buying Xbox
How To Save Money When Buying Xbox
Playing games on Xbox can be one of the most exhilarating activities for a gamer. However, with all the excitement it provides, buying an Xbox can leave a stinging sensation in your pockets. If you want to get your hands on this popular game console, you better have deep pockets; especially if you are aiming for the latest version which is Xbox360.
Luckily for you, the budgetary restrictions that stop you from getting an Xbox console can be lessened. The popularity of Microsoft's Xbox has made it one of the biggest players in the video game industry; and as such, many Xbox retailers have devised their own unique ways of getting your attention and your money for an Xbox console. The competition and the congested market for Xbox, and other game consoles for that matter, is your assurance that with persistence you will be able to find a good Xbox for prices that are reasonable.
So, if you are really serious about putting excitement back in your game room using Xbox or its new version Xbox 360, you might want to take a look at the following tips on how you can save up on your purchase without necessarily sacrificing the quality of your Xbox.
Used Xbox
Check out gaming stores or the Internet for used Xbox consoles. As more and more brands of game consoles are flooding the video gaming market, some gamers buy one console, use it for some months, and let dust gather on it after a newer game console is launched. This is an opportunity for you to acquire an Xbox for half of the current market value.
This approach can save you a lot of money not only on the unit but on the whole Xbox system as well. The previous owner will most likely sell the Xbox console including all the games and other components or upgrades, if any.
Not On Launch Day
A good strategy to save up on a brand new Xbox console is to make your purchase a few weeks or months after its launch. As Xbox and Xbox 360 have already been on the market long enough that all the hype for the units have mellowed down, retailers aren't that tight anymore and hence prices are more affordable. This particular approach can be most relevant for the next Xbox model release,
Rent And Swap Games
Savings on your Xbox can result from saving money on the games that you play on it. Try renting Xbox games from credible online and real world stores. Or better yet, swap existing games with your friends.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 315 ] Word Count: [ 427 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send
Playing games on Xbox can be one of the most exhilarating activities for a gamer. However, with all the excitement it provides, buying an Xbox can leave a stinging sensation in your pockets. If you want to get your hands on this popular game console, you better have deep pockets; especially if you are aiming for the latest version which is Xbox360.
Luckily for you, the budgetary restrictions that stop you from getting an Xbox console can be lessened. The popularity of Microsoft's Xbox has made it one of the biggest players in the video game industry; and as such, many Xbox retailers have devised their own unique ways of getting your attention and your money for an Xbox console. The competition and the congested market for Xbox, and other game consoles for that matter, is your assurance that with persistence you will be able to find a good Xbox for prices that are reasonable.
So, if you are really serious about putting excitement back in your game room using Xbox or its new version Xbox 360, you might want to take a look at the following tips on how you can save up on your purchase without necessarily sacrificing the quality of your Xbox.
Used Xbox
Check out gaming stores or the Internet for used Xbox consoles. As more and more brands of game consoles are flooding the video gaming market, some gamers buy one console, use it for some months, and let dust gather on it after a newer game console is launched. This is an opportunity for you to acquire an Xbox for half of the current market value.
This approach can save you a lot of money not only on the unit but on the whole Xbox system as well. The previous owner will most likely sell the Xbox console including all the games and other components or upgrades, if any.
Not On Launch Day
A good strategy to save up on a brand new Xbox console is to make your purchase a few weeks or months after its launch. As Xbox and Xbox 360 have already been on the market long enough that all the hype for the units have mellowed down, retailers aren't that tight anymore and hence prices are more affordable. This particular approach can be most relevant for the next Xbox model release,
Rent And Swap Games
Savings on your Xbox can result from saving money on the games that you play on it. Try renting Xbox games from credible online and real world stores. Or better yet, swap existing games with your friends.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 315 ] Word Count: [ 427 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send
International Xbox Competition: World Series Of Video Games 2006
International Xbox Competition: World Series Of Video Games 2006
There was a time when playing video games was confined to homes. But today, as video games take a more mainstream position, video games have become another venue for thrilling sports competitions. Good or bad, making video games a recognized sport is a testament to the popularity of video games in this age.
Take the case of Xbox. The World Series Of Video Games Final Competition was held in New York City's Chelsea Piers Sports & Entertainment Complex in December 2006. The competition was presented by Intel. It featured over ninety trained professional gamers aiming for the top spot in PC and Xbox gaming competition.
The World Series Of Video Games 2006 competition boasts of lavish prizes that include total cash prizes of over $240,000 plus expensive designer watches, computer peripherals and trophies. This competition is the climax in a series of international competitions that started in June 2006. The competition had five semi-final legs that brought competitors to places such as Kentucky, Texas, China, Sweden, and London; with the top two winners per category in each leg automatically qualifying for the final competition.
Professional video gamers were pitted against each other's skills in a variety of computer and Xbox games. Among the games that were hotly competed upon were Counterstrike 1.6; Warcraft 3; Project Gotham Racing 3; Quake 4; Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter; Frozen Throne; and of course Halo 2. Winners were determined in every game category.
These international competitions have been attended by over 70,000 onlookers and competitors. And it was also covered by major American television networks. The competition had all the prestige and the glamour which isn't bad for a first time event. It has put the Xbox in the limelight as it establishes itself as a game console for professional gamers.
The video gaming World Series in which Xbox was a platform for competition lends credibility to Xbox's claim for the top rank in video game console industry; which has largely become a three-way competition that includes Sony's Playstation and Nintendo's Wii.
The World Series Of Video Games is a first of its kind in the video gaming industry. You can bet that this will only be the beginning to a whole new breed of sports activities that has millions of spectators worldwide. All eyes will be watching as co-sponsor Xbox will pull all its strings to make the next World Series better than the first one.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 241 ] Word Count: [ 398 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
There was a time when playing video games was confined to homes. But today, as video games take a more mainstream position, video games have become another venue for thrilling sports competitions. Good or bad, making video games a recognized sport is a testament to the popularity of video games in this age.
Take the case of Xbox. The World Series Of Video Games Final Competition was held in New York City's Chelsea Piers Sports & Entertainment Complex in December 2006. The competition was presented by Intel. It featured over ninety trained professional gamers aiming for the top spot in PC and Xbox gaming competition.
The World Series Of Video Games 2006 competition boasts of lavish prizes that include total cash prizes of over $240,000 plus expensive designer watches, computer peripherals and trophies. This competition is the climax in a series of international competitions that started in June 2006. The competition had five semi-final legs that brought competitors to places such as Kentucky, Texas, China, Sweden, and London; with the top two winners per category in each leg automatically qualifying for the final competition.
Professional video gamers were pitted against each other's skills in a variety of computer and Xbox games. Among the games that were hotly competed upon were Counterstrike 1.6; Warcraft 3; Project Gotham Racing 3; Quake 4; Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter; Frozen Throne; and of course Halo 2. Winners were determined in every game category.
These international competitions have been attended by over 70,000 onlookers and competitors. And it was also covered by major American television networks. The competition had all the prestige and the glamour which isn't bad for a first time event. It has put the Xbox in the limelight as it establishes itself as a game console for professional gamers.
The video gaming World Series in which Xbox was a platform for competition lends credibility to Xbox's claim for the top rank in video game console industry; which has largely become a three-way competition that includes Sony's Playstation and Nintendo's Wii.
The World Series Of Video Games is a first of its kind in the video gaming industry. You can bet that this will only be the beginning to a whole new breed of sports activities that has millions of spectators worldwide. All eyes will be watching as co-sponsor Xbox will pull all its strings to make the next World Series better than the first one.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 241 ] Word Count: [ 398 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
Know What You're Getting With The Xbox 360
Know What You're Getting With The Xbox 360
The Full System
The Xbox 360 full system comes with the console, wireless controller, a headset, an ethernet cable, composite AV cables, an HD component and 20GB HDD for less than $400.
The price may set you off by a few Benjamins, but it will be worth it. A good feature of the latest version of Xbox is that you have a choice for the hardwired version or the wireless version. Another feature is that the full system lets you enjoy your gaming without an HDTV or a high-speed internet connection.
The built-in HDD is this version's best feature, since it lets you save your precious level games and stream in larger environments. Another plus, the Xbox Live headset, which lets you go online and chat right away, a great added feature for serious gamers.
The Core System
The core system includes the Xbox console, composite AV cables and a force-feedback wired controller. It doesn’t have everything, but for less than $300, you have enough to start playing, pronto. The games may have a limitation since the HDD is optional and you will have to buy a separate memory card so you can save your games. The memory card will also let you join Xbox Live, a good choice if you want to connect with fellow gamers.
The core system console features a 3.2GHz multi-core IBM PowerPC-base CPU, multichannel surround sound for blast-out-of-your-seat audio and a custom ATI graphics chip for near-lifelike visuals.
If you're buying the core system, you will do well with the basic gaming, although it lacks the bells and whistles of the full system. If, sooner or later, you want to go online, you'll need to pay for extra accessories and you also need a good, solid place on which to save all your data when the time comes.
To correct that, the Xbox core system may be completed with a 20GB HDD and a separate 64MB memory card, although it will cost you extra, far more than it would have had you bought the full system.
On the other hand, some gamers really, truly don't need all the extra accessories initially and would be better off using the extra hundred backs buying additional games. Besides, newer, better versions of accessories may come later on.
What's great about the latest Xbox is that it lets you choose which version suits your gaming personality best. The bottomline? Pick the full version if you want to lose yourself in gaming and choose the core system if the simple features are enough. Just be ready to spend just in case you fall deeper, though.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 317 ] Word Count: [ 438 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
The Full System
The Xbox 360 full system comes with the console, wireless controller, a headset, an ethernet cable, composite AV cables, an HD component and 20GB HDD for less than $400.
The price may set you off by a few Benjamins, but it will be worth it. A good feature of the latest version of Xbox is that you have a choice for the hardwired version or the wireless version. Another feature is that the full system lets you enjoy your gaming without an HDTV or a high-speed internet connection.
The built-in HDD is this version's best feature, since it lets you save your precious level games and stream in larger environments. Another plus, the Xbox Live headset, which lets you go online and chat right away, a great added feature for serious gamers.
The Core System
The core system includes the Xbox console, composite AV cables and a force-feedback wired controller. It doesn’t have everything, but for less than $300, you have enough to start playing, pronto. The games may have a limitation since the HDD is optional and you will have to buy a separate memory card so you can save your games. The memory card will also let you join Xbox Live, a good choice if you want to connect with fellow gamers.
The core system console features a 3.2GHz multi-core IBM PowerPC-base CPU, multichannel surround sound for blast-out-of-your-seat audio and a custom ATI graphics chip for near-lifelike visuals.
If you're buying the core system, you will do well with the basic gaming, although it lacks the bells and whistles of the full system. If, sooner or later, you want to go online, you'll need to pay for extra accessories and you also need a good, solid place on which to save all your data when the time comes.
To correct that, the Xbox core system may be completed with a 20GB HDD and a separate 64MB memory card, although it will cost you extra, far more than it would have had you bought the full system.
On the other hand, some gamers really, truly don't need all the extra accessories initially and would be better off using the extra hundred backs buying additional games. Besides, newer, better versions of accessories may come later on.
What's great about the latest Xbox is that it lets you choose which version suits your gaming personality best. The bottomline? Pick the full version if you want to lose yourself in gaming and choose the core system if the simple features are enough. Just be ready to spend just in case you fall deeper, though.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 317 ] Word Count: [ 438 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
The Most Popular Xbox Games
The Most Popular Xbox Games
For its solid fans, the Xbox offers a lot of great games, but here are a few that seem to stand out from the rest. In no particular order, they are:
Halo 2
You've been waiting for this and it's the sequel to the fastest-selling Xbox game ever. It's not a far mutation from its mother game, but Halo 2 has enough action and excitement to be declared as a class A game. Play in single player mode to hoard all the action or share with your worthy opponent/s with the multiplayer mode. The controls are great and so are the graphics. Not a helluva lot different from Halo, but it deserves a place in your game collection just for the extra features of this new version.
Electronic Arts Half-Life 2
This award-winning game is pumped up for action for Xbox by Valve. You get all the stunning AI and graphics eye-candy. This is a great version of the PC game with added realism on top of its enhanced special effects. The responsiveness will tempt you to keep your doors locked in case somebody sneaks in and tries to pry you away. This game only features a single-player mode, but you'll like the experience so much you really won't care.
Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory
So maybe you didn’t enjoy this game's first outing, but this one might convert you. If you like going deep into hostile territory and perform hand-to-hand combat with enemy soldiers, Splinter Cell will give you all the action. Earn rewards for your amazing stealth skills and set off the alarm without having your game stopped. Take on missions with other players for teamwork.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Battle the evil Sith as a Jedi knight 4,000 years before the Galactic Empire and save the republic. Like the dark side? Play the villain instead. Every move you make will change the future of an entire galaxy. Play at an engaging pace that lets you in on the fantasy of being really there, instead of just 'watching.'
Pirates!
Prefer the lure of the Jolly Roger? In this game, the whole Caribbean is your playing field. Go out to sea and fight enemy ships, avoid capture, dig up buried treasure or play along with politics and turn privateer. Whichever path you take, this game will take you back to the 17th century and let you be a pirate captain, collect great wealth and build your pirate reputation along with your ship size.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
For its solid fans, the Xbox offers a lot of great games, but here are a few that seem to stand out from the rest. In no particular order, they are:
Halo 2
You've been waiting for this and it's the sequel to the fastest-selling Xbox game ever. It's not a far mutation from its mother game, but Halo 2 has enough action and excitement to be declared as a class A game. Play in single player mode to hoard all the action or share with your worthy opponent/s with the multiplayer mode. The controls are great and so are the graphics. Not a helluva lot different from Halo, but it deserves a place in your game collection just for the extra features of this new version.
Electronic Arts Half-Life 2
This award-winning game is pumped up for action for Xbox by Valve. You get all the stunning AI and graphics eye-candy. This is a great version of the PC game with added realism on top of its enhanced special effects. The responsiveness will tempt you to keep your doors locked in case somebody sneaks in and tries to pry you away. This game only features a single-player mode, but you'll like the experience so much you really won't care.
Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory
So maybe you didn’t enjoy this game's first outing, but this one might convert you. If you like going deep into hostile territory and perform hand-to-hand combat with enemy soldiers, Splinter Cell will give you all the action. Earn rewards for your amazing stealth skills and set off the alarm without having your game stopped. Take on missions with other players for teamwork.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Battle the evil Sith as a Jedi knight 4,000 years before the Galactic Empire and save the republic. Like the dark side? Play the villain instead. Every move you make will change the future of an entire galaxy. Play at an engaging pace that lets you in on the fantasy of being really there, instead of just 'watching.'
Pirates!
Prefer the lure of the Jolly Roger? In this game, the whole Caribbean is your playing field. Go out to sea and fight enemy ships, avoid capture, dig up buried treasure or play along with politics and turn privateer. Whichever path you take, this game will take you back to the 17th century and let you be a pirate captain, collect great wealth and build your pirate reputation along with your ship size.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Microsoft Xbox: The Leader Of The Bunch
Microsoft Xbox: The Leader Of The Bunch
Fill in the blanks. Nintendo is to Wii. Sony is to PlayStation 3. Microsoft is to what? If you are a gamer, you clearly know the answer. XBox. Gaming industries are competing when it comes to the bestselling component.
XBox was released way before the Wii and PS3. It can be purchased at $149.99. It promises fun for the new generation.
November 15, 2001, XBox was released in the United States. It was Microsoft’s first stab into video games. The most popular games for the system are “Halo:Combat Evolved”, “Dead or Alive 3” and “Oddworld: Munch’s Odyssee”.
The console was strongly supported by the gaming community earlier but there were graphical improvements that were somehow similar to that of the PlayStation 2’s version.
What gave the XBox the edge among its competition is the XBox Live. It is the online gaming service that lets the subscribers play games with or sometimes even against other gamers all around the globe. It is like connecting to the internet and interacting with the other users.
In 2004, the most successful game compatible with the Microsoft XBox was “Halo 2”. It holds the records as the highest-grossing game released in entertainment history. It made over 100 million on its first day of release. Add to the fact that it has been popular with the XBox Live.
It may be the dark horse when set alongside the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 at this point, but the Microsoft XBox remains popular with gamers.
Since this is an older model compared to the other consoles, you can opt for a brand new one or go for second-hand. There are many sites that advertise XBox.
If you’re looking for ways to save more on either the XBox or the latest similar model with a couple of alterations, the XBox 260, you can check out your nearest stores or the various sites that are selling the product. Chances are, if you look hard enough, you can opt for the cheapest console.
In getting the Microsoft XBox, the key to remember is that, be it brand new or second hand, it must operate at its finest. XBox is cool because it allows the gamers to connect via the internet and play their games through the server on the world wide web. True, the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 offers such option as well but the difference is that the Microsoft XBox was the first of its kind to do so.
Nothing beats the original.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Fill in the blanks. Nintendo is to Wii. Sony is to PlayStation 3. Microsoft is to what? If you are a gamer, you clearly know the answer. XBox. Gaming industries are competing when it comes to the bestselling component.
XBox was released way before the Wii and PS3. It can be purchased at $149.99. It promises fun for the new generation.
November 15, 2001, XBox was released in the United States. It was Microsoft’s first stab into video games. The most popular games for the system are “Halo:Combat Evolved”, “Dead or Alive 3” and “Oddworld: Munch’s Odyssee”.
The console was strongly supported by the gaming community earlier but there were graphical improvements that were somehow similar to that of the PlayStation 2’s version.
What gave the XBox the edge among its competition is the XBox Live. It is the online gaming service that lets the subscribers play games with or sometimes even against other gamers all around the globe. It is like connecting to the internet and interacting with the other users.
In 2004, the most successful game compatible with the Microsoft XBox was “Halo 2”. It holds the records as the highest-grossing game released in entertainment history. It made over 100 million on its first day of release. Add to the fact that it has been popular with the XBox Live.
It may be the dark horse when set alongside the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 at this point, but the Microsoft XBox remains popular with gamers.
Since this is an older model compared to the other consoles, you can opt for a brand new one or go for second-hand. There are many sites that advertise XBox.
If you’re looking for ways to save more on either the XBox or the latest similar model with a couple of alterations, the XBox 260, you can check out your nearest stores or the various sites that are selling the product. Chances are, if you look hard enough, you can opt for the cheapest console.
In getting the Microsoft XBox, the key to remember is that, be it brand new or second hand, it must operate at its finest. XBox is cool because it allows the gamers to connect via the internet and play their games through the server on the world wide web. True, the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 offers such option as well but the difference is that the Microsoft XBox was the first of its kind to do so.
Nothing beats the original.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Accessorize Your Xbox
Just like a car, Microsoft XBox consoles also have accessories. If you search for it online, there is an additional tax for shipping and delivery rate. You can get your Xbox accessories on www.amazon.com or even on www.ebay.com.
However, the XBox enthusiasts get theirs at toy stores. Besides, it is cheaper. Here is a list of the available accessories for the Microsoft XBox.
1. XBox Controllers
These are standard accessories, meaning they are made available when you buy the system. But some gamers tened to overuse their controller that they soon need a new one.
It is interesting to note that there is an array of XBox controllers available on the market. Like there are wireless controllers, XBox Eclipse controller, XBox Afterglow controller and so much more. It is all up to the gamer which one to get.
2. XBox Arcade Sticks
There are some games available for the XBox that can be controlled by arcade sticks for better game play. As opposed to the controller, arcade sticks can allow the gamers to flick their wrists more, therefore, there’s better control.
Best example where the XBox Arcade Sticks are compatible are the fighting games for the console.
3. XBox Steering Wheels
If there are fighting games, there are also driving games. Thanks to XBox Steering Wheels, the gamer can sit right in front of the TV set and drive away.
4. XBox Memory Cards
Memory cards aren't included when you buy an XBox console. This is because it isn't an essential accessory since the XBox has an 8 GB harddisk build-in. This can let the player save all his game information.
An XBox memory card is used when transferring a saved game from one XBox console to another. Some serious gamers also prefer that they back up their games, especially when it is a valued endeavor.
XBox memory cards are perfect for hardcore gamers. It is inserted in the console and plugged into the sockets on its two memory card slots.
5. XBox Headset With Communicator
The most successful game in the entire XBox franchise is “Halo”. Released in 2004, it is still as popular as ever. A headset with a communicator lets the gamer interact with the other players of “Halo” making it more real.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
However, the XBox enthusiasts get theirs at toy stores. Besides, it is cheaper. Here is a list of the available accessories for the Microsoft XBox.
1. XBox Controllers
These are standard accessories, meaning they are made available when you buy the system. But some gamers tened to overuse their controller that they soon need a new one.
It is interesting to note that there is an array of XBox controllers available on the market. Like there are wireless controllers, XBox Eclipse controller, XBox Afterglow controller and so much more. It is all up to the gamer which one to get.
2. XBox Arcade Sticks
There are some games available for the XBox that can be controlled by arcade sticks for better game play. As opposed to the controller, arcade sticks can allow the gamers to flick their wrists more, therefore, there’s better control.
Best example where the XBox Arcade Sticks are compatible are the fighting games for the console.
3. XBox Steering Wheels
If there are fighting games, there are also driving games. Thanks to XBox Steering Wheels, the gamer can sit right in front of the TV set and drive away.
4. XBox Memory Cards
Memory cards aren't included when you buy an XBox console. This is because it isn't an essential accessory since the XBox has an 8 GB harddisk build-in. This can let the player save all his game information.
An XBox memory card is used when transferring a saved game from one XBox console to another. Some serious gamers also prefer that they back up their games, especially when it is a valued endeavor.
XBox memory cards are perfect for hardcore gamers. It is inserted in the console and plugged into the sockets on its two memory card slots.
5. XBox Headset With Communicator
The most successful game in the entire XBox franchise is “Halo”. Released in 2004, it is still as popular as ever. A headset with a communicator lets the gamer interact with the other players of “Halo” making it more real.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
X-Box Cheat Sheets
X-Box Cheat Sheets
A serious gamer wouldn't think twice when it comes to cheating. Obviously, he would want to finish the game without any help whatsoever. But there are those who get stuck at one point in a game and the solution they can resort to is the numerous cheat sheets that can be found online.
Before, gamers purchase the gaming magazines for a better viewpoint of the game. However, thanks to the internet, one can just sit back and surf and get all the information he needs for the game.
XBox cheats are rampant on the world wide web. So many kind souls have been generous enough to share what they know to players who are in need of it.
An example of a site that has all the cheats you need is the www.xboxcheats.com. There you will find every XBox game code, hints and video game cheats to every Xbox game out there on the market.
Gamers have collected cheat codes either from their own game play experience or from various network and sites out there. These have been placed up in their data base.
Not to mention that all these are added up thanks to the countless cheat submissions from visitors.
This access to various cheat codes is one reason why so many people find XBox to be the best video game console. It lets them try out the games that are released for this console and enjoy these in every possible way.
Take advantage of this information at your fingertips. Other sites offering the same knowledge are:
- xbox.gamezone.com
- teamxbox.com
- cheatscodesguides.com
- cheats.gamespy.com
- xbox.gamespy.com
- xbox.ign.com
And so much more. Sometimes what gamers do is they type in the game along with ‘cheat’. Example: “Need for Speed XBox Cheat”. Those keywords alone allow the search engine to peruse through page after page of the available codes, hints and cheats that have been uploaded by previous gamers.
It is interesting to note that these sites also include cheat sheets for other consoles such as the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3. If you feel that you can no longer solve the puzzle to a role playing game, or you want to have infinite lives in order for you reach a further stage, these are all possible just by clicking on the cheat sites mentioned above.
If you feel guilty doing about it, just think, ‘everybody else is doing it, so why can’t you?’
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
A serious gamer wouldn't think twice when it comes to cheating. Obviously, he would want to finish the game without any help whatsoever. But there are those who get stuck at one point in a game and the solution they can resort to is the numerous cheat sheets that can be found online.
Before, gamers purchase the gaming magazines for a better viewpoint of the game. However, thanks to the internet, one can just sit back and surf and get all the information he needs for the game.
XBox cheats are rampant on the world wide web. So many kind souls have been generous enough to share what they know to players who are in need of it.
An example of a site that has all the cheats you need is the www.xboxcheats.com. There you will find every XBox game code, hints and video game cheats to every Xbox game out there on the market.
Gamers have collected cheat codes either from their own game play experience or from various network and sites out there. These have been placed up in their data base.
Not to mention that all these are added up thanks to the countless cheat submissions from visitors.
This access to various cheat codes is one reason why so many people find XBox to be the best video game console. It lets them try out the games that are released for this console and enjoy these in every possible way.
Take advantage of this information at your fingertips. Other sites offering the same knowledge are:
- xbox.gamezone.com
- teamxbox.com
- cheatscodesguides.com
- cheats.gamespy.com
- xbox.gamespy.com
- xbox.ign.com
And so much more. Sometimes what gamers do is they type in the game along with ‘cheat’. Example: “Need for Speed XBox Cheat”. Those keywords alone allow the search engine to peruse through page after page of the available codes, hints and cheats that have been uploaded by previous gamers.
It is interesting to note that these sites also include cheat sheets for other consoles such as the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3. If you feel that you can no longer solve the puzzle to a role playing game, or you want to have infinite lives in order for you reach a further stage, these are all possible just by clicking on the cheat sites mentioned above.
If you feel guilty doing about it, just think, ‘everybody else is doing it, so why can’t you?’
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Everything Starts And Ends At The Xbox Dashboard
Everything Starts And Ends At The Xbox Dashboard
If you’ve just purchased an Xbox 360 and find it hard to navigate yourself to and fro and perform a particular function, the first thing you should understand about your new gaming unit is the Xbox Dashboard. The Xbox Dashboard is what a nucleus is to an atom: it’s the brain or control center of the whole unit.
The Xbox Dashboard has four integral parts, all of which will be explained to you one by one.
Part One: Xbox Live
At this section of the Xbox Dashboard, you can view and modify your gamer profile to ensure that the performance and features of the Xbox 360 will be to your own specifications. This feature is nonetheless also accessible in the other parts of the Xbox Dashboard.
The Xbox Live is the point of interaction of your Xbox 360 as this is where you can send and receive messages from friends who have a Xbox 360 as well. Similar to the messenger list of Yahoo and other online networks, you can check, add, and delete people to your friends list. If you are playing a multiplayer game, use Xbox Live to invite other players to play with you.
Lastly, this segment is also where you can gain access to the Xbox Live Marketplace and purchase add-ons to increase the entertainment value of your Xbox 360.
Part Two: Games
The Xbox Live Marketplace can also be accessed through this section of the Xbox Dashboard but only so you can try the demos provided for the various games and add-ons being sold. You can also watch game videos from the Marketplace and through this section as well.
The Xbox Games section also allows you to check out the various games available for downloading from the Xbox Live Arcade. Lastly, the Xbox Games section will provide you with the list of games that you have already played – a great feature if you’re fond of comparing notes with other players.
Part Three: Media
The media section of your Xbox Dashboard is, as its name already suggests, the media control unit of your gaming unit. This is where you should go in order to listen to your favorite music and view photos or videos in various formats. This can be connected to a desktop’s Window Media to obtain access to other online services.
Part Four: System
Lastly, the system section of your Xbox dashboard will allow you to change, add, remove, and modify settings and controls that affect your gaming experience.
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
If you’ve just purchased an Xbox 360 and find it hard to navigate yourself to and fro and perform a particular function, the first thing you should understand about your new gaming unit is the Xbox Dashboard. The Xbox Dashboard is what a nucleus is to an atom: it’s the brain or control center of the whole unit.
The Xbox Dashboard has four integral parts, all of which will be explained to you one by one.
Part One: Xbox Live
At this section of the Xbox Dashboard, you can view and modify your gamer profile to ensure that the performance and features of the Xbox 360 will be to your own specifications. This feature is nonetheless also accessible in the other parts of the Xbox Dashboard.
The Xbox Live is the point of interaction of your Xbox 360 as this is where you can send and receive messages from friends who have a Xbox 360 as well. Similar to the messenger list of Yahoo and other online networks, you can check, add, and delete people to your friends list. If you are playing a multiplayer game, use Xbox Live to invite other players to play with you.
Lastly, this segment is also where you can gain access to the Xbox Live Marketplace and purchase add-ons to increase the entertainment value of your Xbox 360.
Part Two: Games
The Xbox Live Marketplace can also be accessed through this section of the Xbox Dashboard but only so you can try the demos provided for the various games and add-ons being sold. You can also watch game videos from the Marketplace and through this section as well.
The Xbox Games section also allows you to check out the various games available for downloading from the Xbox Live Arcade. Lastly, the Xbox Games section will provide you with the list of games that you have already played – a great feature if you’re fond of comparing notes with other players.
Part Three: Media
The media section of your Xbox Dashboard is, as its name already suggests, the media control unit of your gaming unit. This is where you should go in order to listen to your favorite music and view photos or videos in various formats. This can be connected to a desktop’s Window Media to obtain access to other online services.
Part Four: System
Lastly, the system section of your Xbox dashboard will allow you to change, add, remove, and modify settings and controls that affect your gaming experience.
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Xbox Mechanics: Tips On How To Install A New Hard Drive
Xbox Mechanics: Tips On How To Install A New Hard Drive
If you’re wondering why you’d wish to install a new hard drive in your Xbox 360, here’s something to consider. Imagine increasing the normal 8 to 10GB hard disk drive of your Xbox 360 with something more substantial like a 120GB hard disk drive, or one that would allow you to save multiple games. That’s wonderful, isn’t it? And that’s what you’ll get once you purchase and install a new hard drive in your Xbox 360.
Step One – Saving Files
Before installing a new hard drive to your Xbox 360, it’s important that you save what needs saving first. Start with the critical settings of your Xbox: this is what makes your unit operate normally. Use an alternate dashboard like the EvolutionX to save your system’s setup. Secondly, copy drives C and E to your desktop’s hard disk.
Step Two – Creating A New Boot Cd
You will use your alternate dashboard in upgrading your Xbox 360 and in order to install a new hard disk drive to your gaming unit. More detailed information about this particular step can be found on the websites of EvolutionX and other alternate dashboards for the Xbox 360. As long as you follow instructions carefully and completely, you won’t encounter any problem at all in this step. Make sure that you copy and burn the newly created data on a CD format which your Xbox will be able to read.
Step Three – Replacing The Hard Disk Drive
Open your gaming unit and replace the hard disk drive with the one you’ve purchased. Check first if your new disk drive is preset to “cable-select”. Secondly, make sure that the necessary wires are connected properly. Keep your old hard disk drive in a dry and secure place for backup purposes.
Step Four – Installing The Cd And File Transfer Protocol (Ftp)
It’s time to install the CD that you’ve created in Step 2. If things don’t pan out as they should, this may mean that you used an incompatible CD format or the wrong data for rebooting. Go back to Step Two once more and recheck everything.
Step Five – Transfer C And E
If Step 4 proceeds smoothly, just click the necessary button to let the installation of the new drive to commence. Afterwards, re-upload drives C: and E: which you saved previously on your desktop’s hard disk drive.
Lastly, make the necessary changes to allow your Xbox 360 to accept your newly uploaded drive C: and if nothing goes wrong then you’ve succeeded installing your new disk drive. Save away!
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
If you’re wondering why you’d wish to install a new hard drive in your Xbox 360, here’s something to consider. Imagine increasing the normal 8 to 10GB hard disk drive of your Xbox 360 with something more substantial like a 120GB hard disk drive, or one that would allow you to save multiple games. That’s wonderful, isn’t it? And that’s what you’ll get once you purchase and install a new hard drive in your Xbox 360.
Step One – Saving Files
Before installing a new hard drive to your Xbox 360, it’s important that you save what needs saving first. Start with the critical settings of your Xbox: this is what makes your unit operate normally. Use an alternate dashboard like the EvolutionX to save your system’s setup. Secondly, copy drives C and E to your desktop’s hard disk.
Step Two – Creating A New Boot Cd
You will use your alternate dashboard in upgrading your Xbox 360 and in order to install a new hard disk drive to your gaming unit. More detailed information about this particular step can be found on the websites of EvolutionX and other alternate dashboards for the Xbox 360. As long as you follow instructions carefully and completely, you won’t encounter any problem at all in this step. Make sure that you copy and burn the newly created data on a CD format which your Xbox will be able to read.
Step Three – Replacing The Hard Disk Drive
Open your gaming unit and replace the hard disk drive with the one you’ve purchased. Check first if your new disk drive is preset to “cable-select”. Secondly, make sure that the necessary wires are connected properly. Keep your old hard disk drive in a dry and secure place for backup purposes.
Step Four – Installing The Cd And File Transfer Protocol (Ftp)
It’s time to install the CD that you’ve created in Step 2. If things don’t pan out as they should, this may mean that you used an incompatible CD format or the wrong data for rebooting. Go back to Step Two once more and recheck everything.
Step Five – Transfer C And E
If Step 4 proceeds smoothly, just click the necessary button to let the installation of the new drive to commence. Afterwards, re-upload drives C: and E: which you saved previously on your desktop’s hard disk drive.
Lastly, make the necessary changes to allow your Xbox 360 to accept your newly uploaded drive C: and if nothing goes wrong then you’ve succeeded installing your new disk drive. Save away!
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Fill In The Blank: Xbox Is For You If ---
Fill In The Blank: Xbox Is For You If ---
The two primary opponents of the Xbox 360 in the gaming industry are the Sony PS3, which launched continental hysteria, and the Nintendo Wii which also sold out its first run of units upon its first day of release. And so now, gamers have three exciting choices to choose from, but the Xbox is still the gaming unit for you if…
You Want All The Games You Can Play Right Here And Right Now
Since Xbox 360 was the first among the three revolutionary gaming units to be released on the market, it enjoys the advantage of having more games and accessories to offer to its customers. If you’re not satisfied with the handful of games available to either the PS3 or the Nintendo Wii then let your senses feast on the gaming buffet offered by the Xbox 360!
You Want To Save As Much As You Can.
For the same reasons, the Xbox 360 is priced considerably less than its two rivals. If you wish your budget not to be completely used by the amount of the unit alone, purchasing the Xbox 360 over the PS3 or Nintendo Wii could allow you to purchase additional games and accessories as well.
You Know What Microsoft Represents
Nintendo may be a gaming pioneer all by its own and Sony an entertainment giant, but neither of these two companies can ever hope of beating Microsoft when it comes to its mastery of all things computer. If, therefore, you’re looking for a gaming unit that can maximize linkage between your gaming console and your desktop computer, look no further than the Xbox 360.
The Xbox 360 will provide you access to an array of services that are supported online by the Microsoft Corporation. If, for instance, you own a Zune player, it will be very realistic of you to expect that the future will hold many more opportunities for both Xbox 360 and Zune to work in perfect harmony!
You Are A Hardcore Gamer
The Nintendo Wii is mainly focused on providing general entertainment for the whole family so it’s unlikely for hardcore gamers to find as much entertainment as they desire even from the motion-sensitive controller of Wii. If you’re looking for a gaming console that will more than adequately challenge your intellect and playing skills, then it’s a toss-up between Sony PS3 and the Xbox 360.
In the end, the choice is up to you, but if you do choose the Xbox 360, it’s unlikely for you to find things to complain about!
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
The two primary opponents of the Xbox 360 in the gaming industry are the Sony PS3, which launched continental hysteria, and the Nintendo Wii which also sold out its first run of units upon its first day of release. And so now, gamers have three exciting choices to choose from, but the Xbox is still the gaming unit for you if…
You Want All The Games You Can Play Right Here And Right Now
Since Xbox 360 was the first among the three revolutionary gaming units to be released on the market, it enjoys the advantage of having more games and accessories to offer to its customers. If you’re not satisfied with the handful of games available to either the PS3 or the Nintendo Wii then let your senses feast on the gaming buffet offered by the Xbox 360!
You Want To Save As Much As You Can.
For the same reasons, the Xbox 360 is priced considerably less than its two rivals. If you wish your budget not to be completely used by the amount of the unit alone, purchasing the Xbox 360 over the PS3 or Nintendo Wii could allow you to purchase additional games and accessories as well.
You Know What Microsoft Represents
Nintendo may be a gaming pioneer all by its own and Sony an entertainment giant, but neither of these two companies can ever hope of beating Microsoft when it comes to its mastery of all things computer. If, therefore, you’re looking for a gaming unit that can maximize linkage between your gaming console and your desktop computer, look no further than the Xbox 360.
The Xbox 360 will provide you access to an array of services that are supported online by the Microsoft Corporation. If, for instance, you own a Zune player, it will be very realistic of you to expect that the future will hold many more opportunities for both Xbox 360 and Zune to work in perfect harmony!
You Are A Hardcore Gamer
The Nintendo Wii is mainly focused on providing general entertainment for the whole family so it’s unlikely for hardcore gamers to find as much entertainment as they desire even from the motion-sensitive controller of Wii. If you’re looking for a gaming console that will more than adequately challenge your intellect and playing skills, then it’s a toss-up between Sony PS3 and the Xbox 360.
In the end, the choice is up to you, but if you do choose the Xbox 360, it’s unlikely for you to find things to complain about!
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Xbox Lovers Clubs – What, Where, Why, And How
Xbox Lovers Clubs – What, Where, Why, And How
What
- An Xbox lovers club is a club that’s organized by, for, and of Xbox players who can’t get enough of their favorite gaming console, which is also the first of the next-generation gaming units to be released on the market.
Where
- You can find information about possible Xbox lovers clubs in your area by checking out the following:
Gaming Magazines
– These usually have sections dedicated to posting information about different gaming communities. Just browse through gaming magazines, and you’re sure to find an Xbox Lovers Club near you. There may be instances that the gaming magazine itself will be sponsoring or holding an Xbox lovers club for the benefits of its readers.
Online Forums
– You can check out online forums dedicated to gaming in general and you’ll surely find a member or two advertising about their own Xbox lovers clubs.
Blogs – Blogging is the new way of communicating and interacting with people online, so make sure to go bloghopping as you’ll find more information about Xbox lovers clubs that are accepting new members into their groups.
Why
- There are many benefits you can enjoy when you join an Xbox lovers club, some of which are the following:
It’s What You Love
– If your family and friends are sick and tired of hearing you rave continuously about the Xbox 360, you’ll find far more receptive ears when you join an Xbox lovers club.
Getting Updated
– Through Xbox lovers clubs, you’ll probably be one of the first to know about the latest news and updates regarding the Xbox 360 since you have an extensive network of contacts to rely on.
Making Friends
– There are many ways for friendships to emerge, and one of such ways is through clubs that are established for the purpose of banding people sharing the same interests, in this case the ever wonderful Xbox 360.
Solutions Guaranteed
– Do you find a certain technical aspect of the Xbox 360 mind-boggling? Is there a boss in a particular game that you just don’t know how to defeat? Whatever your problems are with the Xbox 360, you’re sure to find people in Xbox lovers clubs who are willing to help you out with your dilemma.
How
– On choosing an Xbox lovers club to join, you should consider the following factors: members and membership requirements, goals of the club, location of its headquarters, and how well you seem to suit the organization.
So what are you waiting for? Join an Xbox lovers club now and never look back!
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
What
- An Xbox lovers club is a club that’s organized by, for, and of Xbox players who can’t get enough of their favorite gaming console, which is also the first of the next-generation gaming units to be released on the market.
Where
- You can find information about possible Xbox lovers clubs in your area by checking out the following:
Gaming Magazines
– These usually have sections dedicated to posting information about different gaming communities. Just browse through gaming magazines, and you’re sure to find an Xbox Lovers Club near you. There may be instances that the gaming magazine itself will be sponsoring or holding an Xbox lovers club for the benefits of its readers.
Online Forums
– You can check out online forums dedicated to gaming in general and you’ll surely find a member or two advertising about their own Xbox lovers clubs.
Blogs – Blogging is the new way of communicating and interacting with people online, so make sure to go bloghopping as you’ll find more information about Xbox lovers clubs that are accepting new members into their groups.
Why
- There are many benefits you can enjoy when you join an Xbox lovers club, some of which are the following:
It’s What You Love
– If your family and friends are sick and tired of hearing you rave continuously about the Xbox 360, you’ll find far more receptive ears when you join an Xbox lovers club.
Getting Updated
– Through Xbox lovers clubs, you’ll probably be one of the first to know about the latest news and updates regarding the Xbox 360 since you have an extensive network of contacts to rely on.
Making Friends
– There are many ways for friendships to emerge, and one of such ways is through clubs that are established for the purpose of banding people sharing the same interests, in this case the ever wonderful Xbox 360.
Solutions Guaranteed
– Do you find a certain technical aspect of the Xbox 360 mind-boggling? Is there a boss in a particular game that you just don’t know how to defeat? Whatever your problems are with the Xbox 360, you’re sure to find people in Xbox lovers clubs who are willing to help you out with your dilemma.
How
– On choosing an Xbox lovers club to join, you should consider the following factors: members and membership requirements, goals of the club, location of its headquarters, and how well you seem to suit the organization.
So what are you waiting for? Join an Xbox lovers club now and never look back!
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Life After Xbox Mods
Life After Xbox Mods
If you’re a novice gamer and you’ve decided to start out your gaming experience with an Xbox, you’ll probably have lots of people suggesting you to subject your Xbox to modding. Whether this is the right choice to do or not depends entirely up to you.
What Is Xbox Modding?
Modding is a technically illegal practice that makes use of various techniques and methods to get around security measures and other restrictions programmed by the manufacturer. Just a few months after the release of the Xbox 360 to the global market, the Internet had spawned a number of modding methods to allow players to get around signature checking and advertising and permit use of game backups and other add-ons.
What Xbox Has To Say About Modding
If and when you do allow the use of mods on your Xbox, this will automatically nullify your warranty contract with Microsoft, the maker of Xbox, because several mods require dismantling your gaming unit. It will also ban you from making full use of the Xbox Live Marketplace unless you’re able to install a mod whose sole purpose is concealing the use of mods.
Four Ways For Installing Xbox Mods
Modchip
– When you install this particular mod on your Xbox, you will have to hire a technician to disassemble your unit in order to insert the chip unless you believe you have the necessary technical skills to do it yourself. One little mistake can cause the whole unit to break down completely so care and precision must be exercised when installing this chip.
Upon installation, a modchip will allow you to play games and other add-ons that are presently considered unacceptable.
TSOP Flashing
– TSOP stands for thin small-outline package and this particular mod allows you to make the motherboard of your gaming unit writable. Be aware that TSOP flashing is only applicable for Xbox units V1.0 to V1.5
Softmod
– Unlike a modchip, softmods are any modification which is implemented through a software program. When softmod is installed, players are able to gain access to previously restricted parts of the game. If multibooting is implemented, softmods won’t affect your access to the Xbox Live Marketplace. Keep in mind however that softmods don’t always work.
Hot Swap
– Lastly, with hot swaps, you can use your very own desktop to change a particular set of information inside your Xbox’s hard disk drive.
Many things can go right…or wrong when you install Xbox mods so do be sure about what you want before taking any action.
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
If you’re a novice gamer and you’ve decided to start out your gaming experience with an Xbox, you’ll probably have lots of people suggesting you to subject your Xbox to modding. Whether this is the right choice to do or not depends entirely up to you.
What Is Xbox Modding?
Modding is a technically illegal practice that makes use of various techniques and methods to get around security measures and other restrictions programmed by the manufacturer. Just a few months after the release of the Xbox 360 to the global market, the Internet had spawned a number of modding methods to allow players to get around signature checking and advertising and permit use of game backups and other add-ons.
What Xbox Has To Say About Modding
If and when you do allow the use of mods on your Xbox, this will automatically nullify your warranty contract with Microsoft, the maker of Xbox, because several mods require dismantling your gaming unit. It will also ban you from making full use of the Xbox Live Marketplace unless you’re able to install a mod whose sole purpose is concealing the use of mods.
Four Ways For Installing Xbox Mods
Modchip
– When you install this particular mod on your Xbox, you will have to hire a technician to disassemble your unit in order to insert the chip unless you believe you have the necessary technical skills to do it yourself. One little mistake can cause the whole unit to break down completely so care and precision must be exercised when installing this chip.
Upon installation, a modchip will allow you to play games and other add-ons that are presently considered unacceptable.
TSOP Flashing
– TSOP stands for thin small-outline package and this particular mod allows you to make the motherboard of your gaming unit writable. Be aware that TSOP flashing is only applicable for Xbox units V1.0 to V1.5
Softmod
– Unlike a modchip, softmods are any modification which is implemented through a software program. When softmod is installed, players are able to gain access to previously restricted parts of the game. If multibooting is implemented, softmods won’t affect your access to the Xbox Live Marketplace. Keep in mind however that softmods don’t always work.
Hot Swap
– Lastly, with hot swaps, you can use your very own desktop to change a particular set of information inside your Xbox’s hard disk drive.
Many things can go right…or wrong when you install Xbox mods so do be sure about what you want before taking any action.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
The Xbox 360 Wait Is Officially Over
The Xbox 360 Wait Is Officially Over
Most teenagers and even adult game aficionados who share the same aspirations for a new video game console have finally had their prayers answered. Microsoft Corp., the makers of Windows and perennial leader in the world of computer software, are trying to further their mark on the video game console industry, with the release of the original Xbox a few years ago, and now the newer model – the Xbox 360. This console is seen by many to either place Microsoft among the serious contenders in the industry or be passed off as riding along with the bandwagon.
The release of the new video game consoles from makers like Sony and Nintendo has long been awaited, as has the Xbox 360, which is a direct competitor of the Sony PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii. The success of the original Xbox was somewhat unexpected, since Microsoft was a relatively new contender then, but many eyes are focused on the Xbox 360 and how much better it is compared to the original Xbox. The new console has been released and has a lot of new owners.
Aside from the Xbox 360 release and the releases of the other video game consoles, dubbed the “future generation consoles”, gamers have been anticipating the releases of their favorite game titles made specifically for these high-powered consoles. When the Xbox 360 was launched, it was simultaneously launched with 13 titles, which enabled gamers to play and get used to the unit for a time before the highly anticipated ones will be released. Most of the games are projected to be released in the first or second quarter of 2007.
The gamers have been waiting for these Xbox 360 games to be released since viewing the trailers was made available over the Internet. As such, gamers have quite an idea of what to expect when games such as Halo 3 hit the market. Other anticipated titles include Resident Evil 5, Half-Life 2, Grand Theft Auto IV, and much more.
Never has such a time come in the world of video gaming (both for personal computers and video game consoles) like this one wherein three next-generation machines are almost simultaneously released, giving the gamers such a headache when it comes to choosing. The Xbox 360 offers several unique features that could be the key factor when the time to decide comes. With the release of the Xbox 360, gamers are happily waiting for the release of their favorite games for a brand-new console.
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 388 ] Word Count: [ 411 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
Most teenagers and even adult game aficionados who share the same aspirations for a new video game console have finally had their prayers answered. Microsoft Corp., the makers of Windows and perennial leader in the world of computer software, are trying to further their mark on the video game console industry, with the release of the original Xbox a few years ago, and now the newer model – the Xbox 360. This console is seen by many to either place Microsoft among the serious contenders in the industry or be passed off as riding along with the bandwagon.
The release of the new video game consoles from makers like Sony and Nintendo has long been awaited, as has the Xbox 360, which is a direct competitor of the Sony PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii. The success of the original Xbox was somewhat unexpected, since Microsoft was a relatively new contender then, but many eyes are focused on the Xbox 360 and how much better it is compared to the original Xbox. The new console has been released and has a lot of new owners.
Aside from the Xbox 360 release and the releases of the other video game consoles, dubbed the “future generation consoles”, gamers have been anticipating the releases of their favorite game titles made specifically for these high-powered consoles. When the Xbox 360 was launched, it was simultaneously launched with 13 titles, which enabled gamers to play and get used to the unit for a time before the highly anticipated ones will be released. Most of the games are projected to be released in the first or second quarter of 2007.
The gamers have been waiting for these Xbox 360 games to be released since viewing the trailers was made available over the Internet. As such, gamers have quite an idea of what to expect when games such as Halo 3 hit the market. Other anticipated titles include Resident Evil 5, Half-Life 2, Grand Theft Auto IV, and much more.
Never has such a time come in the world of video gaming (both for personal computers and video game consoles) like this one wherein three next-generation machines are almost simultaneously released, giving the gamers such a headache when it comes to choosing. The Xbox 360 offers several unique features that could be the key factor when the time to decide comes. With the release of the Xbox 360, gamers are happily waiting for the release of their favorite games for a brand-new console.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 388 ] Word Count: [ 411 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
Xbox 360 Customization
Xbox 360 Customization
The new Xbox 360 is finally out on the market, with double the graphics quality, power, and speed of its predecessor, the original Xbox. This console from Microsoft (makers of Windows) offers a lot of new games for old gamers and new gamers alike to enjoy. Titles such as Halo 3, Call of Duty, Final Fantasy XI, and many more are what the gamers have been waiting for.
The Xbox 360 offers things that its predecessor, as well as its current competitors such as the Sony PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii, do not. For one, previous titles from the previous Xbox version are playable on the Xbox 360, and in most cases, the graphics are enhanced. Other consoles can play games from their previous version but don't enhance them.
One thing that makes the Xbox 360 more appealing is that you can personalize it by placing skins. This would show how creative you are and would allow you to replace the monotonous look with your own personal flavor. Since you’ll probably be playing the Xbox 360 for quite a time, you would want to personalize it.
You have a variety of options available to you should you decide to get a skin for your Xbox 360. You can choose to place skins on the console unit itself, to give it a different look. Another option would to add skins to the controllers, matching the unit itself, which would give it a more unique look.
There are numerous designs available, in many different colors. You may contact or go to your local Xbox dealer and ask if they have skins, or you can simply search for them on the Internet. There are manufacturers of skins in decal form, which are easy to stick to the outer portion of the console.
You can even have custom made skins if you want. Although this may cost more money, perhaps you would like your own design and creativity to come out, so this can be a viable option too. An investment here is worth it, particularly if you decide to use your Xbox 360 for a number of years.
The Xbox 360 isn't simply a game console for you to enjoy. It can also be an artwork for you to appreciate. In placing the Xbox 360 skins, you can both enjoy the games and the sight of your personalized Xbox 360 unit.
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Click Here Now To Learn More About Our Risk Free Trial Offer!
The new Xbox 360 is finally out on the market, with double the graphics quality, power, and speed of its predecessor, the original Xbox. This console from Microsoft (makers of Windows) offers a lot of new games for old gamers and new gamers alike to enjoy. Titles such as Halo 3, Call of Duty, Final Fantasy XI, and many more are what the gamers have been waiting for.
The Xbox 360 offers things that its predecessor, as well as its current competitors such as the Sony PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii, do not. For one, previous titles from the previous Xbox version are playable on the Xbox 360, and in most cases, the graphics are enhanced. Other consoles can play games from their previous version but don't enhance them.
One thing that makes the Xbox 360 more appealing is that you can personalize it by placing skins. This would show how creative you are and would allow you to replace the monotonous look with your own personal flavor. Since you’ll probably be playing the Xbox 360 for quite a time, you would want to personalize it.
You have a variety of options available to you should you decide to get a skin for your Xbox 360. You can choose to place skins on the console unit itself, to give it a different look. Another option would to add skins to the controllers, matching the unit itself, which would give it a more unique look.
There are numerous designs available, in many different colors. You may contact or go to your local Xbox dealer and ask if they have skins, or you can simply search for them on the Internet. There are manufacturers of skins in decal form, which are easy to stick to the outer portion of the console.
You can even have custom made skins if you want. Although this may cost more money, perhaps you would like your own design and creativity to come out, so this can be a viable option too. An investment here is worth it, particularly if you decide to use your Xbox 360 for a number of years.
The Xbox 360 isn't simply a game console for you to enjoy. It can also be an artwork for you to appreciate. In placing the Xbox 360 skins, you can both enjoy the games and the sight of your personalized Xbox 360 unit.
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The Law Of Supply And Demand In Xbox 360
The Law Of Supply And Demand In Xbox 360
Microsoft Corp. is well known as a software developer and founder of the most used operating system in the whole word, Windows. In recent years however, they have tried to expand their image by entering the video game industry by releasing the original Xbox. The Xbox 360 is seen as Microsoft cementing their place within the said industry.
The Xbox 360 was just recently released to the market and gamers are clamoring over it. All around the United States and even in certain parts of the world, Xbox enthusiasts were eagerly awaiting the official launch in retail stores. Long lines were formed in some cities in anticipation of this video game console from Microsoft.
A natural concern for retailers when gamers line up for something such as the Xbox 360 is an adequate number of units to sell. Since there were long lines, retailers had to make sure they had a sufficient supply of Xbox 360 units since they didn’t want the customers to come out unhappy due to a product being out of stock. In anticipation of the number of buyers as well as the hype surrounding the launch of this unit, several retailers asked for additional supplies.
The bad news is not all retailers were able to do this. There have been reports of a shortage of supplies in some areas, especially in the first week of sales. This is because customers wanted to get their hands on an Xbox 360 when it was first released, not wanting to wait for the following shipment.
As of the present time, there is no shortage of Xbox 360 units as there are adequate supplies particularly all over the United States. This doesn’t mean to say that the demand for the Xbox 360 isn't there anymore – for sales are still on a positive note. Additionally, retailers can expect better news come 2007, the time when most of the anticipated titles will be released – which will mean more Xbox unit sales.
Now is the perfect time to get your own Xbox 360 unit if you haven’t yet. There is a high probability that there are still units left, plus the fact that you have time to get used to the better graphics, sound, and controls before the highly anticipated games are released in 2007.
The Xbox 360 supply count is now stable. All over the world, there are numbers of units of Xbox 360 available. There certainly is no supply shortage of this console.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Microsoft Corp. is well known as a software developer and founder of the most used operating system in the whole word, Windows. In recent years however, they have tried to expand their image by entering the video game industry by releasing the original Xbox. The Xbox 360 is seen as Microsoft cementing their place within the said industry.
The Xbox 360 was just recently released to the market and gamers are clamoring over it. All around the United States and even in certain parts of the world, Xbox enthusiasts were eagerly awaiting the official launch in retail stores. Long lines were formed in some cities in anticipation of this video game console from Microsoft.
A natural concern for retailers when gamers line up for something such as the Xbox 360 is an adequate number of units to sell. Since there were long lines, retailers had to make sure they had a sufficient supply of Xbox 360 units since they didn’t want the customers to come out unhappy due to a product being out of stock. In anticipation of the number of buyers as well as the hype surrounding the launch of this unit, several retailers asked for additional supplies.
The bad news is not all retailers were able to do this. There have been reports of a shortage of supplies in some areas, especially in the first week of sales. This is because customers wanted to get their hands on an Xbox 360 when it was first released, not wanting to wait for the following shipment.
As of the present time, there is no shortage of Xbox 360 units as there are adequate supplies particularly all over the United States. This doesn’t mean to say that the demand for the Xbox 360 isn't there anymore – for sales are still on a positive note. Additionally, retailers can expect better news come 2007, the time when most of the anticipated titles will be released – which will mean more Xbox unit sales.
Now is the perfect time to get your own Xbox 360 unit if you haven’t yet. There is a high probability that there are still units left, plus the fact that you have time to get used to the better graphics, sound, and controls before the highly anticipated games are released in 2007.
The Xbox 360 supply count is now stable. All over the world, there are numbers of units of Xbox 360 available. There certainly is no supply shortage of this console.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Walking Through The Xbox 360 Games
Walking Through The Xbox 360 Games
The new Xbox 360, recently released on the market, offers much improved graphics in high definition as well as better sound quality. For this reason, games are also improved, with programmers stretching themselves to ensure a high standard for the gamers. The overall result is the satisfaction and happiness of the gamers themselves.
The games, since programmers work on them more often, offer more features than those in the previous console games, not counting the improvements in graphics and sound. The enhancement of the gameplay factor in all the games is a big reason Xbox 360 lovers will remain hooked to this machine for quite a period of time. As such, adventure and RPG games will take more time to complete than before.
With the longer tenure expected in order to beat the game, what most gamers do is to have a walkthrough of a particular Xbox 360 game, to make it easier for them. Sometimes, due to a game having a lot of features, gamers prefer the walkthrough for some tips and strategies on what to do. Although it might seem to take some adventure and excitement from enjoying the game, gamers have knowledge and can go about the game with a bit of ease.
There are a lot of Xbox 360 game walkthroughs available on the Internet. Sometimes, what others do is to take a look at a walkthrough submitted by a fellow gamer across the Internet for some tips and guides. That kind of walkthroughs, although amateur in nature, offers the insights of someone who played the same game.
For example, for the game The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, there are many available walkthroughs with different answers to any FAQs (frequently asked questions). There are tips, a complete walkthrough including the game storyline, achievements, cheats, solutions, character buildup, and much more. The gaming experience for one viewing a walkthrough will be so much different.
Because a walkthrough on any game, not just on the Xbox 360 platform, can dramatically change the game for the gamer, one should be careful when viewing a walkthrough. Should you wish to just check for tips and hints without getting any “spoilers” when it comes to the main story of the game, you should take caution by looking at the sites where only tips and hints are displayed. You don't want your gaming experience to be disastrous.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
The new Xbox 360, recently released on the market, offers much improved graphics in high definition as well as better sound quality. For this reason, games are also improved, with programmers stretching themselves to ensure a high standard for the gamers. The overall result is the satisfaction and happiness of the gamers themselves.
The games, since programmers work on them more often, offer more features than those in the previous console games, not counting the improvements in graphics and sound. The enhancement of the gameplay factor in all the games is a big reason Xbox 360 lovers will remain hooked to this machine for quite a period of time. As such, adventure and RPG games will take more time to complete than before.
With the longer tenure expected in order to beat the game, what most gamers do is to have a walkthrough of a particular Xbox 360 game, to make it easier for them. Sometimes, due to a game having a lot of features, gamers prefer the walkthrough for some tips and strategies on what to do. Although it might seem to take some adventure and excitement from enjoying the game, gamers have knowledge and can go about the game with a bit of ease.
There are a lot of Xbox 360 game walkthroughs available on the Internet. Sometimes, what others do is to take a look at a walkthrough submitted by a fellow gamer across the Internet for some tips and guides. That kind of walkthroughs, although amateur in nature, offers the insights of someone who played the same game.
For example, for the game The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, there are many available walkthroughs with different answers to any FAQs (frequently asked questions). There are tips, a complete walkthrough including the game storyline, achievements, cheats, solutions, character buildup, and much more. The gaming experience for one viewing a walkthrough will be so much different.
Because a walkthrough on any game, not just on the Xbox 360 platform, can dramatically change the game for the gamer, one should be careful when viewing a walkthrough. Should you wish to just check for tips and hints without getting any “spoilers” when it comes to the main story of the game, you should take caution by looking at the sites where only tips and hints are displayed. You don't want your gaming experience to be disastrous.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Microsoft Xbox: The Leader Of The Bunch
Microsoft Xbox: The Leader Of The Bunch
Fill in the blanks. Nintendo is to Wii. Sony is to PlayStation 3. Microsoft is to what? If you are a gamer, you clearly know the answer. XBox. Gaming industries are competing when it comes to the bestselling component.
XBox was released way before the Wii and PS3. It can be purchased at $149.99. It promises fun for the new generation.
November 15, 2001, XBox was released in the United States. It was Microsoft’s first stab into video games. The most popular games for the system are “Halo:Combat Evolved”, “Dead or Alive 3” and “Oddworld: Munch’s Odyssee”.
The console was strongly supported by the gaming community earlier but there were graphical improvements that were somehow similar to that of the PlayStation 2’s version.
What gave the XBox the edge among its competition is the XBox Live. It is the online gaming service that lets the subscribers play games with or sometimes even against other gamers all around the globe. It is like connecting to the internet and interacting with the other users.
In 2004, the most successful game compatible with the Microsoft XBox was “Halo 2”. It holds the records as the highest-grossing game released in entertainment history. It made over 100 million on its first day of release. Add to the fact that it has been popular with the XBox Live.
It may be the dark horse when set alongside the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 at this point, but the Microsoft XBox remains popular with gamers.
Since this is an older model compared to the other consoles, you can opt for a brand new one or go for second-hand. There are many sites that advertise XBox.
If you’re looking for ways to save more on either the XBox or the latest similar model with a couple of alterations, the XBox 260, you can check out your nearest stores or the various sites that are selling the product. Chances are, if you look hard enough, you can opt for the cheapest console.
In getting the Microsoft XBox, the key to remember is that, be it brand new or second hand, it must operate at its finest. XBox is cool because it allows the gamers to connect via the internet and play their games through the server on the world wide web. True, the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 offers such option as well but the difference is that the Microsoft XBox was the first of its kind to do so.
Nothing beats the original.
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Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 323 ] Word Count: [ 412 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
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Fill in the blanks. Nintendo is to Wii. Sony is to PlayStation 3. Microsoft is to what? If you are a gamer, you clearly know the answer. XBox. Gaming industries are competing when it comes to the bestselling component.
XBox was released way before the Wii and PS3. It can be purchased at $149.99. It promises fun for the new generation.
November 15, 2001, XBox was released in the United States. It was Microsoft’s first stab into video games. The most popular games for the system are “Halo:Combat Evolved”, “Dead or Alive 3” and “Oddworld: Munch’s Odyssee”.
The console was strongly supported by the gaming community earlier but there were graphical improvements that were somehow similar to that of the PlayStation 2’s version.
What gave the XBox the edge among its competition is the XBox Live. It is the online gaming service that lets the subscribers play games with or sometimes even against other gamers all around the globe. It is like connecting to the internet and interacting with the other users.
In 2004, the most successful game compatible with the Microsoft XBox was “Halo 2”. It holds the records as the highest-grossing game released in entertainment history. It made over 100 million on its first day of release. Add to the fact that it has been popular with the XBox Live.
It may be the dark horse when set alongside the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 at this point, but the Microsoft XBox remains popular with gamers.
Since this is an older model compared to the other consoles, you can opt for a brand new one or go for second-hand. There are many sites that advertise XBox.
If you’re looking for ways to save more on either the XBox or the latest similar model with a couple of alterations, the XBox 260, you can check out your nearest stores or the various sites that are selling the product. Chances are, if you look hard enough, you can opt for the cheapest console.
In getting the Microsoft XBox, the key to remember is that, be it brand new or second hand, it must operate at its finest. XBox is cool because it allows the gamers to connect via the internet and play their games through the server on the world wide web. True, the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 offers such option as well but the difference is that the Microsoft XBox was the first of its kind to do so.
Nothing beats the original.
This free article is provided by the FreeArticles.com Free Articles Directory for educational purposes ONLY! It cannot be reprinted or redistributed under any circumstances.
Article Copyright By Author. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Article Views: [ 323 ] Word Count: [ 412 ] [ Print Article ] [ Send Article To A Friend ]
Click Here Now To Learn More About Our Risk Free Trial Offer!
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