E3 2008: Microsoft revitalizing Xbox 360 through video content, personalization and games
In the wake of changes for the other consoles, Microsoft announced at E3 2008 the new Xbox experiences that will be available to the owners of the console. Changes will bring stuff that the other consoles have to the 360 and will also maximize the console’s personalization possibilities.
One of the things that is going to be available is instant access to more than 10,000 feature films and TV shows thanks to an agreement with Netflix. This will be available to Xbox Live Gold members who are also Netflix subscribers. It will be available for no extra charge through Xbox Live. Films and shows will start showing in as little time as 30 seconds. Users will also be able to search and rate movies and shows. You will also be able to fast-forward, pause and rewind with either their 360 controller or remote.
Xbox Live is getting the Xbox Live Primetime, an evolution in game shows that is slated to start on Xbox Live in September 2008. Xbox Live Primetime will not only allow for the viewing of different game shows like 1 vs. 100 but also allow 360 owners to take part as a contestant. Something like that should be appealing to 360 owners who also enjoy game shows and wish to take part eventually.
Also, the personalizing ability of the 360 is being maximized with Xbox Live Party. Xbox 360 owners will now be able to make their own avatars. Their animation that was shown border between the cutesy Miis on the Wii and the realism of the upcoming PS3’s Home. So you can jump into parties with your friends no matter where they are (as long as they have a 360). You will also be able to share your favorite games, TV shows, movies and pictures with your friends. This program will also includ Must See TV and other TV- and movie-related programs including Netflix, NBC Universal, Universal Studios Home Entertainment, SCI FI Channel, USA Network, Costantin and MGM.
The lineup for the 360 is also bringing a lot of big, potential blockbuster games. Final Fantasy XIII will be the first Final Fantasy to be a part of the Microsoft game list. However, the 360 is also getting such highly anticipated games including Gears of War 2, Fable 2 and Resident Evil 5. That only covers the blockbusters. The 360 will also be getting Lips, Rock Band 2, Guitar Hero World Tour and other music based games, through there will also be new 360 game geared specifically for family and sports fanatics as well. There will also be exclusive TV games including You’re in the Movies and 1 vs. 100 including other exclusive, TV-based content.
Read [G4.com] Also Read [Gamertell]
NOTE: Image borrowed from Gizmodo.
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They say that microsoft “won” E3. I gotta say, I agree. Thanks to these new integrations in how the 360 can be used, in addition to the rich variety of titles revealed, microsoft’s future looks rather bright for the period between now and E3 ‘09
on July 20, 2008 at 04:17 AM - LINKYeah Microsoft is looking strong since they’re diversifying but the thing that is really going to help them is the fact that they are also getting Final Fantasy XIII which anyone who knows anything about RPGs has been waiting for. That’s one of the real pivotal games that would’ve shifted the balance from a battle between the 360 and the Wii to being a battle between the PS3 and the 360.
on July 20, 2008 at 04:34 AM - LINK