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The Microsoft Xbox 360 Console: Powerful Gaming in a Box

Gone are the days of drab, underpowered gaming consoles with limited features. The Microsoft Xbox 360 is here! It doesn't matter if you are a serious gamer or a mere hobbyist, the Xbox 360 that Microsoft launched in November 2005 is suitable for all players. It claims to have taken into consideration all the facets of ultimate gaming experience with this much-improved version of the original Microsoft Xbox that came out in November 2001.

Check your budget. Depending on what you can afford, you may start with the very basic core system composed of the light console, the wired controller and the composite AV cable; and when your budget allows you to purchase other peripherals one by one for the enhancement of your total gaming experience, maybe you'd want to change your wired controller with the wireless model, or maybe you'd want to add in the Xbox Live headset for amplification of sound effects to a mind-boggling level far above what your normal TV speakers could provide.

On the other hand, if you are one of those to whom "money is no object," you may just go ahead and buy the entire Microsoft Xbox 360 system, where everything is all in (i.e., the console with premium chrome finish, a wireless controller, the Xbox Live headset, component hard drive-AV cable, the Ethernet cable that allows you to connect with the other players, and the hard drive that contains an array of original Xbox games and allows you to download even more games. Since the Xbox 360 allows up to four wireless controllers operating on one console, it lets you play with three other players simultaneously for that added fun and challenge in live competition.

The Microsoft Xbox 360 gives you total digital entertainment. You may amplify and enhance your music and movies to a soothingly soft or to a ripping loud volume. Connect to the Internet and instantly stream your music, digital home movies, photographs and graphics or any other files stored in your hard disk, memory and other digital media that are Microsoft Windows XP-based PC that you want to share with others.

When attached to your TV, the Microsoft Xbox 360 takes advantage of the high-definition TV resolution in its full color and size that makes the game movie-like. Its anti-aliasing capability renders the animation flawlessly smooth and non-jerky, and the characters seem as though they are jumping out of the wide screen! When you are connected to the Internet via the Ethernet card, you have the Xbox Live headset, a facility that allows you to voice-chat with other players, thus combining active gaming with socialization.

There are games that are rated "must-have" because they are simply sensational with the Microsoft Xbox 360. These include "Dead or Alive 4," "Call of Duty 2" for the best WWII shooter, "King Kong" for great effects and "Need for Speed Most Wanted" for racing fans. For some odd reasons, some games that run with excellent audio and video effects using the first version of Xbox don't run as well in the Xbox 360; these include "Madden NFL 06," "NBA Live 06." This must be given immediate attention by the Microsoft people because it is a source of great disappointment for hardcore gamers and, in some cases, could be a deal-breaker.

Pressure is on for movie makers and game programmers/manufacturers to properly and visibly indicate the appropriate rating of their products on the packaging to provide guidance for buyers. In this regard, it is an added attraction to parents that the Microsoft Xbox 360 has settings that allow them to control how it is used by their children. The box has Family Settings which enable parents to shield their children from unsavory or unwholesome contacts. Family Settings perform two functions on the Xbox 360 console-to allow or restrict access to offline games and/or DVD movies, and access to online contact and content via the Xbox Live environment.

ESRB is the regulating body that takes care of rating the propriety or impropriety of a game or movie based on age. ESRB's restrictions on games are EC (early childhood) for children below 6 years old, containing no inappropriate materials at all; E (everyone) for children younger than 13, and these have minimal violence and comic mischief but are substantial for character building. Some Xbox 360 games with an E rating include Ridge Racer 6 and NBA 2K6.

The rest of the ESRB ratings are: T (teen), which may also contain minimal violence, mild-to-strong language and/or suggestive themes; M (mature 17+) containing mature sexual themes or more intense violence and language; AO (adults only, for players aged 18+), which may include more graphic sexual themes and/or violence; and RP (rating pending) for games that have not been officially released yet.

With the safeguard placed by the Family Settings of the Microsoft Xbox 360 console, the parent feels safe buying the system for their kids. So, whatever the gaming preference of the child - or the parent! -- Microsoft Xbox 360 promises to satisfy them.
E3 2009: Project Natal Xbox 360 Announcement

Microsoft Xbox 360 Headset $23.99 The Xbox 360 Headset heightens the experience of the Xbox Live online gaming community, allowing you to strategize with teammates, trash-talk opponents, or just chat with friends while playing your favorite games. Record and leave short voice messages for friends or family through the free Xbox Live Message Service, or connect with your online buddies using the headset. B4D-00001 Boom Headset Microsoft Microsoft Corporation Monaural Mono Mute Noise Canceling Over-the-head Sub-mini phone Volume Wired Xbox 360 Headset www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller $43.99 1 x 8-way D-pad 1 x Proprietary Game Port 1 x Start Button 108" 2 x Menu Navigation 2 x Mini-sticks 6 x Action Button Compact and ergonomic for comfortable play: New and improved ergonomic design enables maximum comfort and endless gameplay Integrated headset port for Xbox Live play: Plug the Xbox 360 Headset into the controller for full duplex voice communication, a wireless first Adjustable vibration feedback for a customized gaming experience: Enjoy an unprecedented level of Rumble Control. Set the Rumble Control to Full, Medium, Low, or Off to match your personal preference Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Based on the acclaimed design of the Xbox Controller S, the Xbox 360 Controller features an improved ergonomic design. The centralized, glowing Xbox Guide Button gives you quick access to your digital movie, music, and games libraries. B4G-00001 Cable Cable - Game Port Gaming Pad Microsoft Microsoft Corporation PC White Xbox 360 Xbox 360 Controller Yes www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller $54.99 2 x Stick 30 ft Wireless 8-way D-pad Integrated 2.4 GHz high-performance wireless technology. Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows works with most Windows XP-based PCs and Xbox 360, delivering a consistent and universal gaming experience. Play in total comfort. Award winning compact ergonomics provide a more comfortable gaming experience. Processor: Pentium 300 MHz or higher Drive: CD Drive Operating System: Windows Vista, XP with Service Pack (1 or later). Input Device: USB The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows delivers a consistent and universal gaming experience across both of Microsoft's gaming systems. Experience the ultimate gaming experience on Windows XP and Xbox 360. Black Gaming Pad JR9-00006 Microsoft Microsoft Corporation PC USB Wireless Wireless - Radio Frequency Xbox 360 Xbox 360 Wireless Controller Yes www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Xbox Live $27.99 1600 Point 56P-00001 Microsoft Microsoft Corporation Point Pack Software Licensing Xbox 360 Xbox Live www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Earset $59.99 30 ft Fits comfortably on either ear Up to eight hours of battery life per charge Xbox 360 Wireless Earset AC wall adapter Experience enhanced voice chat with the Xbox 360 Wireless Earset. Designed specifically to work seamlessly on your Xbox 360, this hands-free, wire-free earset employs the same technology as the award-winning Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. Pair up both accessories for superior performance, freedom, and comfort. Use up to four Wireless Controllers and Wireless Headsets simultaneously on one Xbox 360 for the most intense multiplayer gaming sessions ever. B4E-00025 Boom Earset Microsoft Microsoft Corporation Monaural Mute Over-the-ear Power RF Volume Wireless Xbox 360 Wireless Earset www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit $23.99 5 V DC Play & Charge Cable NiMH Rechargeable Battery Pack Microsoft Xbox 360 Gaming Console Recharge your Xbox 360 Wireless Controller while you play! Complete with a charging cable and rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox 360 Play and Charge Kit is all you need to juice up your Xbox 360 Wireless Controller - even in the midst of battle. B4Y-00027 Charge Cable Microsoft Microsoft Corporation Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Xbox 360 Headset. Each $18.99 Manufacturer: Microsoft. Each. The Xbox 360 Headset heightens the experience of the Xbox LIVE online gaming community, allowing you to strategize with teammates, trash-talk opponents, or just chat with friends while playing your favorite games. Record and

Xbox 360 Controller - game pad - wired $35.99 Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller - Game pad - black

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Microphone $25.99 Works with XBox 360 Video Game System You can have up to four Xbox 360 Wireless Microphones connected to a console at one time To turn off the microphone, press and then release the Power/Connect button When the microphone is out of wireless range, the lights flash green one time every second until you move the microphone back into range A connected microphone does not appear in the Xbox 360 console Ring of Light windscreen and the windscreen foam should be hand-washed The Xbox 360 Wireless Microphone is for use exclusively with the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. The Xbox 360 Wireless Microphone uses only AA alkaline or fully charged Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries. The microphone sleeps after 15 minutes of inactivity, it automatically wakes when you start to use it again. Handheld Microphone Microsoft Microsoft Corporation N9D-00001 Not Applicable Power Switch Wireless Wireless RF 32.81 ft Xbox 360 Wireless Microphone www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Bluetooth Headset for Xbox 360 $59.99 Let the fun go to your head with the Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth. Chat without wires on Xbox LIVE and easily switch between Xbox mode and Bluetooth mode. Use the headset with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, PCs and other devices. The Xbox 360 Wireless Headset is the comfortable, hands-free way to keep the conversations going on your Xbox 360. Headset comes with convenient micro USB charging cable, 3 sizes of ear gels and an ear loop. Features up to 8 hours of talk time and up to 300 hours on standby. Easily switch from Xbox to Bluetooth mode to answer calls.

Microsoft Xbox 360 Controller - Game Pad. Each $31.99 Manufacturer: Microsoft. Each. Based on the acclaimed design of the Xbox Controller S, the Xbox 360 Controller features an extended nine-foot cable and an improved ergonomic design. The centralized, glowing Xbox Guide Button grants you quick access to you

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter Network Adapter. Each $58.99 Manufacturer: Microsoft. Each. The Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system. You can easily transfer videos and music to your Xbox 360 system, play games

Microsoft Xbox 360 Wired Controller $39.99 The Xbox 360 Controller features an extended 9’ cable and a comfortable ergonomic design. The centralized, glowing Xbox Guide Button grants you quick access to your digital movie, music, and games libraries. The ultimate in gamer flexibility, precision, control, quality, and comfort are all yours. Integrated headset port for Xbox LIVE play. Adjustable vibration feedback for a personalized gaming experience. Works with most Windows Vista-based PCS.

Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel - wheel - wireless $56.99 Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Speed Wheel - Wheel - wireless

Xbox 360 Wireless Controller - game pad - wireless $43.99 Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller - Game pad - wireless - black

Microsoft Xbox 360 S - Game Console. Each $334.64 Manufacturer: Microsoft. Each. The new Xbox 360. Here today, ready for tomorrow with a brand new, leaner machine in an all new black gloss finish. Wi-Fi is built-in for easier connection to the world of entertainment on Xbox LIVE, where HD movies and TV s

Microsoft Xbox 360 60GB LIVE Starter Pack $97.99 60GB Hard Drive Ethernet Cable Wireless Headset 60GB hard drive attaches easily to your console and lets you save games, download Marketplace extras, watch movies and TV shows, and more Ethernet cable connects to your existing high-speed Internet connection Wired headset lets you chat with friends and trash-talk online opponents Three-month subscription to Xbox LIVE lets you jump into the world of multiplayer gaming Jump in and explore everything Xbox LIVE has to offer! The Xbox 360 60GB LIVE Starter Pack provides an easy and affordable option for Xbox 360 Arcade console owners to upgrade to multiplayer gaming and content downloads from Xbox LIVE Marketplace. FKC-00001 Gaming Starter Kit Microsoft Microsoft Corporation Xbox 360 60GB LIVE Starter Pack www.microsoft.com