As computing becomes cheaper, entertainment and gaming gadgets are getting more snazzier and expensive, take for instance the latest model of Microsoft’s Xbox gaming console that promises to be the most expensive game system in the decade after Sega Saturn in 1995. Early adopters of the new Xbox 360 who hope to experience its new wireless controls, will now have to shell by far more than before. But then if they see that they are getting technology that simulates reality to the closest, it is a bargain.
Announcing the pricing of the much-awaited Xbox 360 at the German Games Convention in Leipzig on Wednesday, Microsoft found the best podium to introduce the audience to the $399.99 (US retail) game console that packs a wireless controller, 20 GB hard drive, headset besides a cable to hook up to a HDTV. An economy version dubbed as “Xbox 360 Core System" without the superior features and a wired controller is also slated to be available at an US retail price of $299.99.
This version matches price with that of the original Xbox and PlayStation 2 at the time of their respective launches. Since both the versions require a hard drive, which is pre-included in the $ 399 superior version, users of the economy version may have to evaluate whether buying a separate hard drive makes better financial sense. Both versions however will carry a silver membership to Xbox Live online commune, allowing users to access live player profiles to send voice and text chats to them, and for demo / trailer downloads. The paid gold membership however will allow users to pit their wits against each other online.
The accessories for the Xbox 360 such as additional wireless controllers and a 64 MB memory card for saving games as a cheap alternative to a hard drive would still cost $50 and $40 each respectively. The Xbox 360 also offers custom styling accessories such as faceplates for latching to the front of the console to personalize the console’s look. Microsoft in being bullish expects the new version’ to capture the market with awe-inspiring graphics, audio besides online play. It also hopes to serve as an all in one entertainment device that plays CDs, DVDs, MP3s and digital content various storage devices, given that modern homes are cluttered with gadgets.
Expected to reach the store windows between November 8 and 24, the Xbox 360 is bound to make the tech savvy look into their pockets for big change or atleast open up their Christmas gifts even before Christmas in order to feel the thrills and racing pulses that realistic gaming offers these days.
