|
|
Xbox News is a site that brings you the very latest Original Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox One news, the latest games and releases, Part of the
DCEmu Homebrew & Gaming Network.
THE LATEST NEWS BELOW
|
December 5th, 2005, 18:07 Posted By: wraggster
The Xbox 360 hard drive is certainly 20GB in total, but players can never access more than 13GB of storage space - just two thirds of the stated size.
Obviously some space will always be required by the operating system, as true of everything from iPods to desktop computers, but it's rarely such a high proportion.
The Windows XP operating system for PC, for instance, uses less than 2GB of hard disk space.
While there's no doubt that 360s hard drive is indeed the claimed size, its effective, usable capacity is actually only 65% of that. This could become more problematic as large files, such as high-definition movies, become more common.
Out of the box, Xbox 360 has only 12GB of free space, but it's possible to free another gigabyte by deleting the demo movies and music.
We're currently waiting for a statement from Microsoft regarding this. As soon as we hear anything, we'll let you know.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
 Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
 |
|
|
|
December 5th, 2005, 18:05 Posted By: wraggster
With demand for Xbox 360 outstripping supply on both sides of the Atlantic, the boss of the US arm of eBay has claimed that her site has seen 40,000 360s sold since the machine launched over there.
Meg Whitman, chief executive of eBay, revealed on Thursday that users of her nerd-powered version of the car boot sale had bought and sold 40,000 of the next generation consoles during the 10 days since Microsoft's machine arrived in the shops.
This, if you accept the widely circulated figure of 400,000 Xbox 360s hitting shelves in the US, means that 10% of the consoles have already changed hands, and mostly for prices $100 to $250 above the ones paid in the shops.
And considering that most of the 6500 Xbox 360s currently listed for sale on the US site are described as being in their 'original packaging,' we guess that they aren't all being sold by US gamers who've already grown tired of Gotham or Call of Duty 2.
Unless they all need the money to pay for their liposuction.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 5th, 2005, 18:01 Posted By: wraggster
Xbox Japan's business manager, Yoshihiro Maruyama, has announced that Microsoft is aiming to sell 1 million Xbox 360 units in the region by summer 2006.
In an editorial published in Dengeki Xbox 360 magazine, Maruyama wrote: "It's only a target, but the one million mark is a figure we'd like to reach by next summer."
"And then we'd like to go to 1.5 million, then 2 million in next year's end of year sales rush," Maruyama continued.
"We believe the one million mark to be an important figure. If we cross one million, it will be easier for developers to do business, so we'd of course like to reach it quickly."
Microsoft is clearly hoping that its next-generation console will perform much better in Japan than the original Xbox - sales of which have yet to reach the 500,000 mark in the region. The Xbox 360 is set to launch in Japan on December 10th, priced at YEN 39,800 (GBP 190) for the hard drive-bundled premium system.
Launch day software titles will include Need for Speed: Most Wanted, FIFA 06 and Perfect Dark Zero. However, Tecmo's Dead or Alive 4 - a key title for the Japanese market - has been delayed and will not hit the shelves until December 17th.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 5th, 2005, 02:36 Posted By: wraggster
Carcharius has released a new version of ScummVM Xbox, it allows to play games based on LucasArts' Scumm (Script Creation Utility for Maniac Mansion) system.
What's new:
* ScummVM 0.80 engine and all of the changes which that brings.
* support for 480p and 720p HDTV modes.
* support for FluidSynth midi emulation (see note).
* support for command line arguments from JbOne's xbe shortcut maker.
More info --> http://carcharius.xbox-scene.com/
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 4th, 2005, 20:14 Posted By: wraggster
The next generation of gaming is here, incarnate in the Xbox 360. Everything’s bigger, faster and better — including its power consumption. After testing the 360’s power intake, CNET found that it sucks in more electricity than any other home entertainment device, save big screen HDTVs. That’s some electricity bill, amounting to $10 to $35 annually.
This is approximately twice the power required by a Mac Mini, but less than a high-spec gaming PC draws. We have yet to see how the other next-generation consoles compare, but we may well find similar power consumption figures, a hidden extra cost in the console’s price.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 3rd, 2005, 10:40 Posted By: wraggster
Success HK are doing preorders for all the following Xbox 360 games (Theres a ton of games):
Tetris: The Grand Master Ace Jap ver.
Japanese publisher Arika, the company behind the Tetris: The Grand Master arcade series is also behind T4, an original entry in the Tetris series that features Xbox Live competitive play. T4 gets the "four" in the title from the fact that Tetris Grand Master is on its third entry in the arcades with Tetris: The Grand Master 3 -- Terror Instinct. In addition to standard Tetris-style falling blocks play, the game features a "hold" button which allows you to hold a piece in reserve and switch it in for your current piece.
Wrestle Kingdom Jap ver.
Wrestle Kingdom favors a "work the body" style of gameplay, where you can focus on various body parts to wear out your opponent and make him more vulnerable. There's also a "voltage" meter that builds as you perform more impressive moves. Once your meter is filled, you can hit the A and X buttons together to perform your wrestler's finishing move.
The character models in Wrestle Kingdom look quite realistic, and you can almost feel the sweat dripping off of the wrestlers' mullets (mullet-sporting wrestlers aren't just an American thing, apparently). The arena we played in also looked quite nice, with polished hardwood floors surrounding a standard wrestling ring.
Shin Sangoku Muso Jap ver.
Gameplay improvements include the addition of two new modes of play. In addition to the Musou, Challenge and Free modes of play, you can now play a Gaiden Mode and Shura Mode. Gaiden Mode (Side Story Mode) lets you take control of your favorite generals in new battles based off historical battles. Shura Mode (Pandemonium Mode) places you in an endless battle, where new scenarios are automatically generated as you attempt to survive the enemy onslaught.
Shin Sangoku Musou 4 Special will offer two player play but will not be compatible with Xbox Live. Koei will release the title to Japan on 12/22 at the slightly elevated price of 8,190 yen. We'll be sure and chime in closer to the release to let you know if the improvements make this a game worthy of the Xbox 360 packaging.
Dead or Alive 4 Jap ver.
Dead or Alive 4 defines the fighting experience on next generation consoles with the first tournament fighter on Xbox 360. Dead or Alive 4 once again raises the bar in both online and offline fighting, with 3-D high definition graphics and sound, online capabilities via Xbox Live (featuring large scale global online tournaments, increased worldwide simultaneous online play, detailed scoreboards, clans and more), new incredible interactive stages, and an all star line-up of old and new favorite characters (with new costumes and storylines). The fighting system has been overhauled, allowing even more mastery and strategy of your favorite character, including the most complex DOA countering system yet!
[eM] -eNCHANT arM- Jap ver.
An RPG by developer FromSoft with Xbox Live support, high-def visuals, and other features. The game will be released simultaneously with the Xbox 360 Japanese release.
FIFA Soccer 06 Road to 2006 FIFA World Cup Jap ver.
Delivering an unprecedented combination of attacking gameplay, complete customization, and pure authenticity, FIFA Soccer 06 is the TOTAL SOCCER experience. More intuitive gameplay lets you control every move with pinpoint accuracy, enabling you to pass, shoot, and tackle with more responsiveness than ever before. Off the pitch, master the most immersive Manager mode ever. Sign sponsors, monitor the transfer market, and buy players as you discover the stars of tomorrow. Featuring the most comprehensive line-up of licensed leagues, players, and kits from around the world, FIFA Soccer 06 dominates the pitch like never before.
Attacking Gameplay - As the Midfi eld General, battle your rivals using physical play and on-the-ball skill. All-new tackling, dribbling, and shielding moves put you in complete control on the pitch.
All-New Manager Mode - Determine the fate of your club in the 15-year Career mode. Control club budgets, manage your coaching staff, set tactical formations, or search the transfer market for potential stars of the future.
Complete Customization - Shape the game into your own personalized soccer world. With an all-new Create-A-Player, design a star from scratch, customizing everything from passing abilities to appearance and body-type, and more.
Perfect Dark Zero Jap ver.
A secret war has begun between shadowy corporations bent on world domination. Joanna Dark and her father Jack are brought up in the fight for the future of the planet. A routine bounty hunting mission rips open a global conspiracy that will change Joanna's destiny -- forever.
Players must guide Joanna Dark on her journey to become the perfect agent. Featuring a compelling and captivating story, Perfect Dark: Zero plunges players into a world of corporate espionage and conspiracy. The title merges the excitement and intrigue of its predecessor with revolutionary game design, cutting-edge online play, and amazing graphics to deliver an experience that defines next-generation gaming and entertainment.
Ridge Racer 6 Jap ver.
In Ridge Racer 6, the classic Namco franchise returns with more speed, excitement and gameplay variety than ever before. Players enter a world of high-definition, high-speed races and can choose to challenge others or take control of the wheel alone in a variety of on and offline modes. Online compatibility lends to features such as Vs. Battles and downloadable content, further enhancing the game's replayability to make Ridge Racer 6 an unforgettably immersive experience.
The ultimate racing challenge: Ridge Racer 6 offers the widest selection of cars and courses to date featuring over 130 new machines (including over 8 Special Machines), 30 challenging courses, and a classic mini-game at the start-up screen.
New world explorer mode: This brand new mode matches the player's gaming style offering over 200 races.
Evolved nitrous system: Punch the nitrous and experience the intensity of new levels of speed.
Xbox Live Compatibility: Compete head-to-head in 14 player online races. Challenge the worldwide unified time attack ranking in Global Time Attack. Upload/download Ghost Data for more challenges. Players may also download new content via the Xbox Live Marketplace.
Every Party Jap ver.
Every Party is a multiplayer board game that is currently slated for Japanese release on the Xbox 360. The game, meant for one to four players, pits you against human or artificial-intelligence opponents in a race to the goal piece at the end of the board. Along the way, you'll encounter various prizes and traps that will aid or hinder you or your opponents. Each player starts off every single turn by spinning the wheel. On the normal wheel, the spaces are evenly separated and consist of the numbers 1 through 6, indicating how many places you will move. However, unlike traditional board games, Every Party gives you the opportunity to try a few different wheels, in case you've got a different strategy in mind. Typically, the main other wheel that you'll be using is the "lazy wheel," which has a few number spaces on it, but approximately half of which are adorned with only a star. If you land on the star space, you won't be able to move any places, but you'll instead receive the bonus from the space you're currently sitting on an additional time. This is beneficial if you've landed on a particularly profitable square; however, since the goal is still to reach the end before your opponents, it's not always wise to stop moving, even if only for one turn.
Need for Speed Most Wanted Jap ver.
Wake up to the smell of burnt asphalt as the thrill of illicit street racing permeates the air. From the makers of the hit Need for Speed Underground series, Need for Speed Most Wanted challenges players to become the most notorious and elusive street racer.
Combining illicit street racing and tuner customization with the intensity of strategic police pursuit that surpasses any Hollywood-style chase scene, Need for Speed Most Wanted will be on every gamer's 'must-have' list this holiday season. Out-race rivals, evade cops and exploit hundreds of miles of open road as gamers make their way up the Blacklist.
To become the most wanted racer, players must build up their street cred and Rap Sheet with gripping, white knuckle, head-to-head races with the top drivers on the streets, as well as pull daring, evasive moves to out-run and out-fox the cops that patrol the open road. Players can manage their heat or utilize a number of strategic tactics to keep the cops off their tails as they leave their rivals behind to suck their exhaust fumes.
Thats an amazing list of release games for the Japanese Xbox360, if your happy with importing and lets be realistic, its cheaper than buying in your own country most of the time then this is for you 
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 3rd, 2005, 10:25 Posted By: wraggster
News article from Success HK
Need for Speed Most Wanted
The Short Bark:
EA's Need For Speed franchise gets a much-needed fuel injection of fun with the return above ground, deep racing gameplay and the thrill of police chases. While the racing may get a bit repetitive at times there's enough going on during the game keep things interesting. Graphically, NFSMW packs a punch on the current consoles and it goes without saying looks fantastic on the 360. Coming into the sunlight to the sounds of sirens breathing down your back was just what this franchise needed to place it firmly in the halls of great racing games and make it a must-have on any gamers list.
The Full Bite:
The latest release in Electronic Arts' long running Need For Speed series, Most Wanted, returns the popular franchise to daytime racing and brings back the one thing that was sorely missing from the last few versions - the police. Never has lawlessness been so much fun as you zoom your way through challenges and races all the while evading some amazingly intelligent A.I cops and building up a reputation that allows you to live up to the title of the game.
The plot of NFSMW puts you in the immense fake polis of Rockport where you encounter one nasty street racer by the name of Razor Callahan. Duping you into a race, he gets you jacked by the police, sabotages you, then takes your ride and uses it to make his way from 15 to number one on the "blacklist." The blacklist consists of the 15 best and most notorious street racers in the circuit and you race your way up through the ranks being an all around reckless street racing superstar to earn you cred with blacklisters, a rap sheet with the cops, and a chance to get your ride back from Razor.
Jumping right into the career mode of Most Wanted, you'll encounter what has to be some of the most unintentionally hilarious cut scenes in a game this year. With a healthy dollop of cheese these full-motion videos mix real footage with CG animation creating this weird glazed over type visual. Through these lusciously cornball interludes you meet Razor, some other sepia-toned racers, the obligatory "racing hogtie" Mia (Maxim 'it' girl Josie Moran) and some not so scrupulous detectives who aren't very fond of you. It's a shame you don't get treated to more of these over the top attempts at a plot, as most of the story will play out through HUD cell phone conversations,
Following the continuing trend of "free roam" gameplay, you can indulge in a variety of challenges and races plus two new game modes, which have you basically begging to be chased by the fuzz. Alrentantely you can tool around this massive city, figuring out where all the nooks, crannies and side roads are so that when you do hear those red and blues blaring, you'll be able to make a decent job of getting away. Without a doubt, the art of being chased and being able to successfully escape is what makes "Most Wanted" most fun.
You'll start off with something called a "heat level" which, much like the Grand Theft Auto star system, establishes just how bad you are. As your heat level rises so does the level of pursuit employed by the cops - making for intense, racing mayhem that will put your driving skills to the test. You can successfully out drive the cops and bring your level back down but the further along you go in the game the more challenging you'll find that solution.
At level 1 you'll have the requisite cruisers doing their best to shut you down. Slowly you'll see the difficulty increase, initially with random spike strips and road blocks, and building up to a heat level where you deal with kamikaze police SUVs, helicopters, and souped up cruisers - all after you. Making things even more interesting are select spots on the road where you can knock into things like a log-carrying tuck or a giant donut sign which can temporarily disable your pursuers so you can run and hide to race another day. If that doesn't help there's also the addition of a bullet-time slow down effect which may or may not help you steer yourself out of a jam.
The racing elements of NFSMW are pretty standard fare, as is the customization of the truckload of licensed vehicles you'll either win or buy. While the racing may get a bit repetitive at times there's enough going on during the game keep things interesting. Graphically, NFSMW packs a punch on the current consoles and it goes without saying looks fantastic on the 360. Coming into the sunlight to the sounds of sirens breathing down your back was just what this franchise needed to place it firmly in the halls of great racing games and make it a must-have on any gamers list.
Need for Speed Most Wanted is out on PSP, DS and Xbox 360
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 3rd, 2005, 03:02 Posted By: wraggster
The Xbox 360 has landed in Europe, with a special launch event to celebrate, and while many continental gamers were able to get their hands on the much-coveted console, the picture in the UK was bleak. Mirroring the US launch, people without preorders were disappointed by the low stocks available and lack of provision to cope with the demand—even people preordering from large chains were told their preorders had to be cancelled at the last minute, and several retailers such as HMV reported many more names on the waiting list than consoles.
The queues and demand have fulfilled the hype machine’s goal, though; national newspapers have been mentioning the story all day, whereas there was very little 360 coverage before the sell-out. Just as the price of consoles on eBay.com is cooling down, the prices on eBay.co.uk are fluctuating wildly, with many people out to profit from the shortage. As well as the console selling out, every local retailer reported very low stocks of games and accessories, with some vital components such as the hard drive nowhere to be found.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 2nd, 2005, 22:39 Posted By: wraggster
In almost four years of availability in Japan, the original Xbox has sold an estimated 450,000 units in the country. Microsoft has made clear it's ambitions to blow that number out of the water with the Xbox 360, a goal reiterated in a recently published Dengeki Xbox 360 interview with Microsoft Japan's Xbox division general manager and executive officer Yoshihiro Maruyama. Worldwide, Microsoft plans to ship 3 million Xbox 360 units worldwide by March, and 4.5 million units by the end of June.
"It's only a target, but we want to reach 1 million units by the summer of next year," Maruyama said of the company's plans for Japan. "And during the year-end shopping period, we hope to reach 1.5 to 2 million units. We believe that 1 million unit is an important figure. It makes things easier for [game] makers to do business, so want to achieve it early."
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 2nd, 2005, 22:38 Posted By: wraggster
Just seconds after the first Xbox 360 was sold at retail in Europe, we caught up with regional director Neil Thompson to talk about the stock situation for the console in the run-up to Christmas, the extensive pre-order campaign - and his feelings on finally seeing a 360 in the hands of a consumer...
GamesIndustry.biz: You just sold the first Xbox 360 in Europe literally seconds ago - what's the feeling now that it's finally in the hands of customers? Are you relieved?
Neil Thompson: No, it's a feeling of pure, unadulterated excitement at this point, to be honest! We've worked very long and hard over the last four years, really, in building the Xbox brand, and I think the Xbox 360 will take that brand to the next level. It's a very very exciting time.
What are your expectations in terms of what people are going to be saying tomorrow morning and this weekend, after the launch?
I think people who've got it will be raving about the gaming experience they've had. I think people will probably be getting online within about a quarter of an hour, when they get home - and I think when they get online they'll start playing with folks in America and other folks around Europe, and getting really excited about PGR and Perfect Dark and Call of Duty, and all of the titles that are going to be really exciting.
You know, people will still be commenting tomorrow on how many units we had, and how quickly we'll be replenishing - so I'll still be saying tomorrow what I've been saying for most of the day really, which is that every week we're going to be shipping units in. We're doing all we can to get as many planes and ships through as fast as we can - so that's my guarantee to people, that that's the effort we're putting into it.
In terms of the stock tonight and tomorrow morning at launch - is there a lot of stock in the UK that's on a first-come, first-served basis, or is it really mostly pre-ordered stock?
I think... I would say the majority of what I've seen from retailers is on pre-order of some form or shape. I think some retailers will have plenty of free stock, because the pre-order mechanic isn't something that necessarily they can manage very well - but a lot of it will be pre-ordered stock.
Has Microsoft expressed a preference about that to retailers?
No, that's a retailer decision - how they manage their customer base and how they operate as retailers. That's why you have some some retailers doing very strong pre-order campaigns, like GAME, and other retailers, the more mass-market retailers, have a free stock system.
All the people you see here tonight were invited down because they've pre-ordered - they needed to have a special invite to be here because they've pre-ordered. Otherwise, I think it would have been very difficult just to manage the crowds, to be honest! There could have been thousands outside here, rather than the, I don't know, five hundred or so that we've got.
It's probably not a night where you want to talk about challenges - but briefly, what do you see as the biggest hurdle you have to overcome between now and Christmas?
I think it's concentrating on meeting the demand as best as we possibly can. It's making sure people are enjoying and getting the best out of the system - and obviously, I'm going to be spending a lot of time with retail partners helping them manage the customer situation and any concerns that may arise.
We're really going to focus all our efforts on getting as much stock in as possible, because the demand is proving to be phenomenal.
Are you going to be doing anything to communicate that situation to consumers - to make them aware of the stock situation?
Well, people ask me this a lot, and ever since E3 last year, I think I've been saying to everyone that I expect demand to exceed supply when we launch. I've been saying it for six months in practically every press interview that I've done - so you know, hopefully people are conscious of that fact, but are also conscious of the fact that we are committed to replenishing the product on a weekly basis. We're not leaving the market dry for six, eight, twelve weeks - we're going to come out with more product every single week. That's really the situation.
Neil, thanks very much for your time.
Thanks.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 2nd, 2005, 22:34 Posted By: wraggster
Last night's Xbox 360 midnight launch saw the flagship store of leading UK and European videogames retailer GAME, on London's Oxford Street, being decked out in the green and white livery of the new console, as hundreds queued to collect their pre-orders and musc pumped out of a DJ booth to warm up the crowd on the cold, damp December night.
Lisa Morgan, deputy CEO of GAME, was on hand to chat about the importance of the launch, the impact on the Christmas market - and the type of consumer who's picking up an Xbox 360 from the first shipment.
GamesIndustry.biz: Tonight sees the first launch of a next-generation console - how important is an event like this for a retailer like GAME?
Lisa Morgan: This is really, really important for GAME. As the UK's largest specialist retailer of videogames, it doesn't get much more exciting than this. We've been planning and preparing for months, and it's just fantastic to see so many people actually queuing up and buying the machines!
Do you have any idea what kind of numbers you have here this evening?
I think there are easily about a couple of hundred people here this evening. We only invited consumers who placed a deposit, and who pre-ordered the machine with us probably many months ago now, and we're pretty confident that every one of them will go away with their machine - that's the job that we wanted to do for them.
Looking onwards towards Christmas, how important is Xbox 360 going to be to you over the next few weeks?
I think we have to be realistic. We're really being kept in tune with what kind of stock is coming into the market, and the volumes of stock are not necessarily what we would have liked to have seen as a retailer - so in terms of overall impact on our business, there are other formats that are going to play a bigger part in terms of revenue.
In terms of sentiment, though, this is really key to our business. We think it's important to the market that there's new product coming into the industry, and this product is absolutely fantastic. It's really taking gaming that one step forward for us. So for us, 360 isn't just about the next few weeks - it's about next year and the year after, because we're in this for the long term.
What kind of people have you seen coming in to pre-order the 360? You've probably got more pre-orders than any other UK retailer - do you have any data on those people?
We've got our GAME Reward Card database - we've got over five million customers on that, and we've tracked all of our pre-orders on the database. So we can tell you that the bulk of the consumers so far are male, between the age of 20 and 30 years old, and virtually all of them are historical Xbox purchasers. The majority have bought games like Halo and Fable - so a really loyal Microsoft following for the new machine.
It's quite an achievement to build up such a loyal following in just four years...
I think it's a real credit to them.
From your perspective as a retailer, how has that following been built up? What's different about Microsoft's approach that allowed them to do this?
I think, having done the first launch with them, and obviously being a very key part of the second launch - we're their official partner - it's fair to say, I think, that both of us have learned an awful lot along the way. I think what's really great from the guys at Microsoft is that they've listened. They've listened to retail, they've listened to consumers, and they've really responded to things that I believe will really make this machine a much bigger success than the first machine. So yeah, we're feeling really encouraged.
Looking to the software - any predictions as to what titles are really going to do well on Xbox 360 in the coming weeks?
Well, we'll take a quick look at the figures tomorrow, that's for sure - but I think Project Gotham will probably be number one, Perfect Dark Zero number two, Call of Duty number three... That's probably my projection.
Lisa, thanks for taking the time to speak to us.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 2nd, 2005, 10:51 Posted By: wraggster
More than 400,000 Xbox 360s have been sold in the US since the console launched there just one week ago, according to American Technology Research analyst P.J. McNealy.
Numerous US retailers had ceased taking pre-orders for the console weeks, or even months before the November 22nd launch, and massive queues formed outside major stores in preparation for the midnight release. Thousands of customers were forced to leave empty handed as stock rapidly depleted nationwide, though Microsoft has promised the retail channel a weekly re-supply in the run up to Christmas.
According to McNealy, the widely publicised stock shortages - a consequence of an ambitious tri-continent launch strategy - have seriously hampered the potential first week sales. McNealy estimates that Microsoft could have sold up to three times as much if the stock was readily available at retail.
"I think they would have been happy to have sold another million if they could have. They just didn't have them," he said.
The US pre-launch situation has been largely mirrored in the UK, with retailers complaining that initial stock allocations will fall drastically short of consumer demand for the new machine. Pre-order customers have been advised that they may not receive their new console before Christmas, and while Microsoft has remained relatively quiet on official stock figures for the European launch, estimates of around 300,000 are "not far removed from reality" according to MS executive, Chris Lewis.
Microsoft has repeatedly stated that it is doing everything possible to manufacture, package and ship the consoles to retail, operating plants on a 24-hour basis in a bid to meet the current consumer demand. Day one stock allocations for Japan, where the console will launch on December 10th, have not been revealed.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 2nd, 2005, 00:03 Posted By: wraggster
Divineo UK have in stock a mass of Xbox 360 Items for buying now, heres all of the buy nows:
Xbox 360 memory unit (64 MB)
Save your Xbox 360 games, Xbox Live accounts, and more then take them with you.
Xbox 360 play & charge kit
Recharge your Xbox 360 Wireless Controller while you play and kiss disposable batteries goodbye! Complete with a charging cable and rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox 360 Play and Charge Kit is all you need to juice up your Wireless Controller even in the midst of battle.
Xbox 360 VGA AV Cable
Showcase stunning Xbox 360 high-definition graphics on your PC monitor or HDTV using the VGA input. Play high-quality audio with the included Stereo connection or utilize the Optical Audio port for digital sound.
Xbox 360 Wireless Bridge
Connect the Xbox 360 console to Xbox Live and your wireless home network with this custom fitting wireless network adapter. Compatible with 802.11 B/G (2.4 GHz) and the new lightening fast 802.11 A (5 GHz) wireless networks.
Xbox 360 wireless controller
Experience the ultimate in wireless freedom with next-generation precision, speed, and accuracy.
Xbox 360 Faceplate (Chrome)
Xbox 360 Faceplate (Woody)
Xbox 360 Faceplates (Hot Rod)
Make a statement: personalise the Xbox 360 with high-quality, interchangeable faceplates that match your personal style
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 1st, 2005, 20:48 Posted By: wraggster
New commercial game release posted at SuccessHK
Call of Duty 2 redefines the cinematic intensity and chaos of battle as seen through the eyes of ordinary soldiers fighting together in epic WWII conflicts. The sequel to 2003's Call of Duty, it has stunningly realistic graphics, seamless gameplay and the most intense WWII shooter action yet. Play through missions in the order you see fit. Will you decide to play first as a sniper or as a tank commander? It's your call Multiplayer Mayhem - Go online for intense Axis vs. Allies team-based multiplayer action
[IMG]
http://www.success-hk.com/item_photo/item/XB360-call-X3.jpg[/IMG]
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 1st, 2005, 19:34 Posted By: wraggster
If you're hoping to hurtle headfirst into the next-generation of gaming when Xbox 360 launches tomorrow, having secured yourself one of Microsoft's super machines you'll undoubtedly want to grab some of the first wave of games touting 360's awesome power.
So, to help steer you away from the ports and the poor and guide you lovingly towards the ass-kicking next-gen gems, we've compiled this concise guide to the launch games. You can find the complete unabridged, unofficial, unbiased and unrivalled reviews in the latest issue of Xbox World 360, which is on sale now.
Amped 3
It's impossible to dislike Amped 3 - it has real character, is hugely ambitious in size and scope, there's plenty to keep you occupied and, even if it isn't all that immediate, it is accessible. It could have done with more time, but this is still the best Amped game yet and offers SSX real competition.
Xbox World 360 rating: 84%
Call of Duty 2
The shockingly powerful action of Call of Duty 2 never stops; despite the linearity, the shimmering illusion of war is never truly shattered as the game just doesn't let you relax for even the splittest of seconds. This is a spectacular next-gen showpiece and a must-own 360 gem.
Xbox World 360 rating: 90%
Condemned Criminal Origins
Condemned draws intelligently on such horror and thriller classics as Psycho, Seven and Silence of the Lambs and excels at creating a chilling atmosphere. Visually stunning, buttock-clenchingly tense and packed with in-your-face violence, this brutal thriller is guaranteed to have you gripped from start to finish.
Xbox World 360 rating: 89%
Gun
If Neversoft had concentrated on making this a real 360 title - rather than more or less a straight port from Xbox - by adding in real freedom and choice as well as visual splendour, then we'd be searching for superlatives to sum it up. Instead, the end result can only really be described as tepid.
Xbox World 360 rating: 73%
Kameo Elements of Power
A curious fantasy affair that by turns delights and frustrates, innovates and gets bogged down in genre cliches. A huge technical showcase for what Xbox 360 is capable of, Kameo is stunningly beautiful to look at and fun to play, but the adventure itself is short of greatness.
Xbox World 360 rating: 83%
King Kong
Running along a completely linear path following one of your mates - which is what a good deal of the game involves - is not actively playing a game. Not in our book anyway. An above average movie tie-in, King Kong is big on style, but low on substance and distressingly short on gameplay ideas.
Xbox World 360 rating: 72%
Need for Speed Most Wanted
Not as knuckle-blanchingly rapid or as visceral a racer as Burnout on old flavour Xbox, Most Wanted is an evolution rather than a revolution for the series. It's still an enormous amount of fun, however, and for our money the most comprehensive and polished Need for Speed yet.
Xbox World 360 rating: 81%
Perfect Dark Zero
Although it doesn't immediately rock the next-gen-o-meter, the more you play, the deeper you'll fall in love with Joanna Dark, her gorgeous guns and the superb level design. The fact that it looks the business too means that this feels like the return to form that Rare followers have been itching for.
You can find the complete Perfect Dark Zero review in the upcoming issue of Xbox World 360, which goes on sale 22 December.
Xbox World 360 rating: 85%
Project Gotham Racing 3
Exquisitely blending realism and mind-boggling physics with glorious arcade-style playability, PGR3 is gorgeous in every possible way and the best racer we've ever played. Not only does it live up to its considerable hype, it overtakes it. Bloody brilliant and essential Xbox 360 gaming. Buy it.
Xbox World 360 rating: 92%
Quake 4
Bloody - and bloodily - brilliant and rammed with set-pieces that are set to stun, you'll come away from Quake 4 feeling utterly entertained. However, if you want more for your fifty quid than a 10-hour queue of death-hungry Strogg, you'd best point your shotgun sights elsewhere.
You can find the complete Quake 4 review in the upcoming issue of Xbox World 360, which goes on sale 22 December.
Xbox World 360 rating: 78%
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 06
It looks beautiful, but that can't help disguise the fact that this is inferior to the Xbox version in all but graphics. Even if you are keen to play Tiger Woods on a next-gen console you should wait for the 2007 version, which is what the folks at EA should have done.
Xbox World 360 rating: 53%
Tony Hawk's American Wasteland
You'll be crushed at the sight of it looking identical to the Xbox version and offering no additional content - and that pretty much seems to sum up the whole experience. The bottom line is that this is running desperately thin on ideas and brings too little that's new or involving.
Xbox World 360 rating: 75%
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 1st, 2005, 19:32 Posted By: wraggster
For all its successes elsewhere, the original Xbox never sold very well in Japan. But that might be about to change, for Microsoft's next-gen machine is picking up interest and high scores across the nation, including polling ahead of Nintendo's Revolution at the Tokyo Game Show.
In a survey of 1084 people undertaken at TGS in September, 71.8% said they were most looking forward to PS3, but a surprising 23% said they would rather own an Xbox 360, ahead of Revolution with 20.9%.
And just to emphasise how much of a growth in expectation that is, 86% of the gamers who voted already owned a PS2, 32% had a Gamecube while only 11% owned the original version of uncle Bill's console.
Of course, a pinch of salt is needed with every statistic and here are a few grams of sodium to help your digestion: this self-selecting group of Tokyo's most hardcore, 54% Super Famicon-owning, RPG obsessed gamers had just been given the chance to get hands-on with 360 all day, while all they had to see of Revolution was the new TV remote-style controller.
While the punters seem to be looking forward to Xbox 360, the Japanese press seem positively delighted with the machine's launch line-up. Highly respected gaming weekly Famitsu has rated Ridge Racer at 34/40, Need for Speed Most Wanted at 33/40 and Perfect Dark Zero at 33/40. Which is none to shabby compared to Mario Kart DS's 36/40.
Whatever the reception it expects, Microsoft itself is making final preparations for Xbox 360's Japanese launch on 10 December by erecting four giant Xbox statues across the country.
Standing 12 feet tall and playing game trailers on a 36 inch screen they will either promote a flurry of sales, or terrify the tiny and timid Japanese nation into thinking that that really is how big 360 is.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 1st, 2005, 19:26 Posted By: wraggster
The next-generation games consoles become a reality in Europe tonight with the arrival of Microsoft's Xbox 360, which will be rolling out across the continent at midnight accompanied by fifteen game titles.
Many stores around the UK and continental Europe will be opening at midnight to allow customers to pick up their consoles as early as possible - although exactly how many consumers will be able to buy the systems tonight remains unclear.
Microsoft has remained largely silent on shipment volumes for Europe, with the closest thing we have to an official indication of the day one shipment numbers being a comment from Microsoft executive Chris Lewis that an estimate of 300,000 units was "not far removed from reality."
However, Xbox global marketing and publishing boss Peter Moore has admitted that many of those hoping to bring home an Xbox 360 in time for Christmas may be disappointed, commenting that "the demand is overwhelming".
Many retailers, particularly specialist retailers, have been running pre-order schemes for the console and will have no units available for customers who walk in tonight or tomorrow morning. Pre-orders at some retailers shut weeks or even months ago, and even some customers who pre-ordered consoles may not get their hardware for a few weeks.
However, others - including several mass-market retailers such as supermarkets - are going to operate a first-come first-served system for their supplies of consoles, with midnight openings being the order of the day for those outlets.
Long queues are likely to be futile, however. Even the largest mainstream retailers have complained of small allocations of stock, with one major supermarket chain in the UK reported to have been allocated less than a thousand units of hardware in total - less than 12 for each of its stores.
In terms of what gamers will actually be able to buy tonight, there are two basic packs of hardware - the "premium" GBP 279.99 standard Xbox 360 pack, and a GBP 209.99 "Core System" pack, which has no hard drive and uses wired controllers rather than wireless ones.
However, many retailers refuse to sell the system outside of a software bundle - with Toys R Us, for example, demanding GBP 399 for its cheapest premium system bundle, which includes both videogames and DVDs.
15 individual games will launch with the system, priced at GBP 49.99 and including a strong selection of both first- and third-party games. Microsoft itself is leading out with three UK-developed games - Rare's Kameo: Elements of Power and Perfect Dark Zero titles, and Bizarre Creations' Project Gotham Racing 3.
In terms of third-party games, platform exclusives Amped 3 (2K Sports), Condemned: Criminal Origins (SEGA) and FIFA 06: Road to the World Cup (EA Sports) are joined by a number of high profile titles also available on other platforms such as Call of Duty 2 and Quake 4 (both Activision), King Kong (Ubisoft), GUN (Activision) and Need for Speed: Most Wanted (Electronic Arts).
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
December 1st, 2005, 19:24 Posted By: wraggster
GamesIndustry.biz has learned that Toys R Us will force customers who want to take an Xbox 360 home when the console launches tomorrow to purchase bundles which include specified games and DVDs.
Several customer representatives from Toys R Us branches across the country confirmed to GI.biz that the bundles will start at GBP 299 for the Xbox 360 core system (which does not include a hard drive), a 64MB memory unit, Ubisoft's King Kong and two DVDs - Bend it Like Beckham and The Italian Job..
Alternatively, consumers can purchase a GBP 349 bundle comprised of the core system, memory unit, King Kong and Perfect Dark Zero, plus The Italian Job, The Last Samurai and Swordfish DVDs.
Premium system bundles will start at GBP 399 for an Xbox 360 with hard drive, King Kong, Amped 3 and two DVDs. The most expensive bundle, at GBP 450, replaces Amped 3 with Project Gotham Racing 3 and comes with three DVDs.
In stores where it is available outside a bundle, the core system retails for GBP 209.99 while the premium system is GBP 279.99. The memory unit is GBP 22.99, and games carry an RRP of GBP 49.99.
Which means consumers purchasing, for example, the most expensive bundle will be paying more than GBP 23 for DVDs like Swordfish - a film which is available from retailers such as Amazon for as little as GBP 5.97.
There also seems to be some confusion over whether all Xbox 360 buyers will have to purchase a bundle. One store told GI.biz that customers who pre-ordered their console would not be required to buy one of the bundles and could simply take home the standalone system - while another branch said that the rule would apply to all customers, even if they did not sign up for a bundle when they pre-ordered.
A third store said that pricing for systems and bundles was yet to be confirmed, even though the console is due to launch in less than 24 hours, adding that more information would be available later in the day.
Toys R Us head office did not respond to requests for comment.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
November 30th, 2005, 20:47 Posted By: wraggster
Peter Moore, Worldwide Head of Marketing (a new title, we believe) for all things Xbox, has commented on expected availability on Xbox 360 hardware in the United Kingdom.
Speaking to his official magazine, Moore painted a picture of frustration for some gamers eager to get their hands on the software giant’s new all-singing, all-dancing uber-toy. “I’m not sure I can guarantee that everyone will get an Xbox 360 by Christmas. My hope, certainly, is that everyone who wants one will get one by Holiday time, but the demand is overwhelming. Our goal is to make as many consoles as we can. We’ve got two factories working 24 hours a day. We’ve got air freight running as well as boats, because you can get more units on boats. All we can do is make them as fast as we can and ship them as fast as we can.”
Taking one of his now-familiar pot-shots at Sony Computer Entertainment, Moore continued, “Our goal is to roll inventory in every week from the factories, which is different to some of our competitors who like to dump a lot of units in and then go completely dry for weeks. What we have done is encourage retail to keep a balance between pre-orders and first-come-first-served sales, both in North America and in Europe,” he explained.
As to how well managed the Xbox 360 roll-out will be in the UK remains to be seen, though stories emerging of cancelled midnight openings due to security concerns and a general feeling of unease remains the norm.
We’ll bring you full launch coverage of Xbox 360 as it happens in the UK.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
|
November 30th, 2005, 13:12 Posted By: wraggster
Microsoft's Peter Moore has admitted that many European consumers hoping to take an Xbox 360 home in time for Christmas could be disappointed as demand for the new console outstrips supply.
In an interview with the Official UK Xbox Magazine, Moore said: "The good news is that Xbox 360 is a very desirable product, the bad news is that it’s not like baking bread. It has 1700 parts, we have to make them, pack them, and ship them. We’re trying to get everyone satisfied as quickly as we can but demand is huge.”
"I’m not sure I can guarantee that everyone will get an Xbox 360 by Christmas,” Moore continued.
"My hope, certainly, is that everyone who wants one will get one by Holiday time, but the demand is overwhelming.”
Many UK retailers ceased taking pre-orders for the Xbox 360 some time ago - but there is still hope for those who didn't get place an order in time. "What we have done is encourage retail to keep a balance between pre-orders and first-come-first-served sales, both in North America and in Europe," Moore said.
He confirmed that Microsoft is doing everything it can to get Xbox 360 units into shops, with two factories operating 24 hours a day and both planes and boats shipping deliveries.
“Our goal is to roll inventory in every week from the factories, which is different to some of our competitors who like to dump a lot of units in and then go completely dry for weeks,” Moore added - most likely referring to Sony's PSP stock problems earlier this year.
To read more of the post and Download, click here!
Join In and Discuss Here
Submit News and Releases Here and Contact Us for Reviews and Advertising Here |
|
|
|
|
« prev
757
758
759
760
761
762
763
764
765
766
767
768
769
770
771
772
773
774
775
776
777
next » |
|
|
