From CAGwiki

The Xbox 360 is Microsoft's entry into the next-gen console war.

Contents 1 External links 2 General Xbox 360 Information for Recent/Potential Buyers! 2.1 Reasons to avoid the Xbox 360 or Xbox Live: 2.1.1 360 - 2.1.1.1 1. Full Backwards Compatibility has not been reached (see CheapyD's thread located here for more technical information). Many games have been left off the BC list, some of those being great games. If being able to play every single Xbox game on this system is a crucial point in your purchasing of a system then the 360 misses here (at least for now, no clear picture on the future of the BC of the 360). 2.1.1.2 2. Regional Zones for this system prevent the play of imported games on your 360. For example, if you wanted to import a Japanese game to play on your American Xbox 360, it would not work. 2.1.1.3 3. Price. Sure, compared to Sony's Playstation 3 which will start at $500 dollars, $300-$400 doesn't sound too bad. But, it is a lot of money, especially once you get a couple games, the play and charge kit, an extra controller, and the Xbox Live service. Most new games will be priced at $60 ($70 for Limited Edition games) and Arcade games range from $5-$10. 2.1.2 Xbox Live - 2.1.2.1 1. No broadband internet. No high-speed internet means no online playing whatsoever. 2.2 Premium vs. Core: 2.2.1 Core - $300 - Comes with wired controller, no harddrive, standard A/V cable, and the system. 2.2.2 Premium - $400 - Comes with wireless controller, 20GB harddrive, component HD A/V cable, ethernet cord for online play, Xbox Live headset, and the system. 2.2.3 What's the difference? With the Core you pay less and receive a lot less. If you prefer memory cards, do not own an HD tv, and have no preference on a wired/wireless controller this system is for you. The Premium is actually cheaper for the things that you receive. The harddrive is $100 and the wireless controller is $10 more expensive than the wired. Also, you get the Live headset and a bump in A/V cables. It all boils down to the harddrive. If you would rather purchase memory cards to take it's place, then that's your call (memory cards are $40 and can hold 64MB vs. the 20GB harddrive). 2.3 360 Deals: 2.3.1 Currently, there is no plan from Microsoft to lower the price of the Premium or Core system here in America. Any price drops rumored are considered false, according to Microsoft officials. Stay tuned after the release of both the Sony Playstation 3 and the Nintendo Wii to see if they change their mind, or if they unveil some sort of plan to counter the impact of these two new systems. With that being said, here are some deals being offered as of early December: 2.3.2 Burnout Revenge Walmart Bundle 2.3.3 Overstock $325 Xbox 360 Premium Deal w/ 20% Coupon Thanks, pop311! 2.3.4 Xbox 360 Premium Console with free Madden 07 $400 shipped at Amazon Thanks, Airedack! 2.4 System Setup: 2.4.1 With the introduction of a new system to someone who's not familiar with the Xbox or Microsoft products, it can be pretty confusing getting everything set up and working the way it should be. Have no fear! Here are some very helpful links that will guide you through each process of the Xbox 360 setup: 2.4.2 Connecting the Xbox 360 2.4.3 Connecting the Xbox 360 to the Power Supply 2.4.4 Positioning of the Xbox 360 2.4.5 Connecting the Xbox 360 to the Wired Controller 2.4.6 Connecting the Xbox 360 to the Wireless Controller 2.4.7 Connecting the Xbox 360 to Digital Audio 2.5 Games to Get for the 360: 2.5.1 This is the most objective advice I can give to anyone on this topic. If you have a 360 or if you visit any EB/Gamestop, Best Buy, Circuit City, most Walmarts (etc.) then you have access to numerous demos. If you have the 360, take advantage of this..download as many game demos as you possibly can from the Marketplace - remember, you can have 6 downloads going at once while still using the console for something else. If you don't have the console yet, go to the stores mentioned above and play on the kiosks (good luck getting the drooling kid off of the controller first though at that store). All of the systems set up that I have seen have had Call of Duty 2, Fight Night Round 3, Project Gotham Racing 3, Full Auto, King Kong, and Kameo game demos on it. Since then, they've probably been updated with even more. Of course those with the system already have the advantage in this case, but, those without it aren't hopeless if none of those in-store demos interest you. You already know what types of games you like before you even start looking at the selection. If you're into racing you choose between arcade racers like Burnout Revenge, Full Auto, and Need For Speed: Most Wanted, and simulation racers like Project Gotham Racing 3 and MotoGP 06. Shooters and action games have a wide range (as always) so you will have to decide what type of shooting/action you like: war combat, futuristic combat, shoot 'em ups, and the list goes on. Sports games also just depend on your personal preference. The list of RPGs and fighters right now is very small with a clear choice for both: Elder Scrolls: Oblivion and Dead or Alive 4. If you're not sure you're ready to throw down $50-60 bucks yet, don't worry, because there is also a much cheaper solution: the Xbox Live Arcade. I personally have been hooked on games like Hexic, Geometry Wars, Uno, Gauntlet, Smash TV, and Hearts. They range from $5-$12 and seem to be very popular amongst the general community. Some even play these more than regular 360 games because of their addictiveness. Also, when you buy games directly from the Marketplace on your 360 Dashboard, you save money vs. going to a store to buy Microsoft Point cards (save enough to pretty much buy another 400 point game). 2.5.2 For the popular opinion of which game to buy, here is the Gamerankings list of most popular games (make sure to search under 360 games only): GameRankings 2.5.3 Also, for the full list of Backwards Compatible games for the 360: BC list 2.5.4 A really good site to pick up newer games for $40 is PlayAsia. These games are region-free, meaning that they can be played on any 360 anywhere, and these are Asian games fully translated into English. A great deal for anyone wanting new 360 games for a cheap price: PlayAsia 360 2.5.5 Games available so far on PlayAsia: 2.5.6 Assassin's Creed (Collector's Edition w/ figure) 2.5.7 Blazing Angels: Squadrons of WWII 2.5.8 Call of Duty 2 2.5.9 Call of Duty 3 2.5.10 Far Cry Instincts: Predator 2.5.11 Gears of War 2.5.12 Gears of War (Limited Edition) 2.5.13 Hitman: Blood Money 2.5.14 Marvel: Ultimate Alliance *backordered* 2.5.15 MotoGP '06 *backordered* 2.5.16 Prey 2.5.17 Saints Row 2.5.18 Rainbow Six: Vegas 2.5.19 Splinter Cell: Double Agent 2.5.20 Tomb Raider: Legend 2.5.21 Viva Pinata (Limited Edition) 2.5.22 X-Men: The Official Game 2.6 360 Blockbusters on the Horizon: 2.6.1 Crackdown 2.6.2 Fuzion Frenzy 2 2.6.3 Forza 2 2.6.4 Half Life 2: Episode 2 2.6.5 Lost Planet 2.6.6 Assassin's Creed 2.6.7 Burnout 5 2.6.8 Halo 3 2.6.9 BioShock 2.6.10 The Darkness 2.6.11 Mass Effect 2.6.12 Grand Theft Auto IV 2.7 Accessories to buy: 2.7.1 It depends on preference for wired vs. wireless. The wired is slightly lighter (because of no battery pack) but the wireless you can take anywhere in your room, apartment, or house and it will most likely work (don't know the exact range the 360 can detect your controller at). If you do purchase a wireless controller you will probably want to have the Play and Charge kit for each controller. This allows you to hook up an adapter to the top of the controller during play or standby which charges the battery in the controller. The alternative is plowing through AA batteries whenever the battery is running out of juice. If you haven't purchased a router yet and you plan on getting Xbox Live, check this list for the official Xbox live routers: Live Compatible Routers . As long as you don't have the router in the DO NOT section, it will work with Xbox Live (you may have to open ports though for it to work at it's max). 2.7.2 Here are some good descriptions/guides for the main 360 accessories: 2.7.3 Xbox 360 2.7.4 Xbox 360 Headset 2.7.5 Xbox 360 Universal Remote 2.7.6 Xbox 360 Memory Units 2.7.7 Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit 2.7.8 Xbox 360 S-Video AV Cable 2.7.9 Xbox 360 VGA HD AV Cable 2.7.10 Xbox 360 Composite AV Cable 2.7.11 Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter 2.7.12 Xbox Live Vision Camera: 2.7.13 This Fall, Microsoft released a webcam called the Vision camera, giving each Live member new options to get the most out of the Live experience. These webcams come with an array of uses, mainly to: 2.7.14 1. Add a face to your gamertag in online matches (mainly card games now, such as Uno, Spades, Hearts, and other arcade games like Bankshot Billiards). 2.7.15 2. To (soon) be able to add your face to characters in games such as Poker or Rainbow Six: Vegas via facemapping. 2.7.16 3. Send picture messages to friends and recently played opponents the same way you'd send voice or text messages. 2.7.17 4. To create your own personal gamerpic for all your friends to see. 2.7.18 5. To use in games like Totemball, where the camera becomes the controller for your character. 2.7.19 The camera retails for $39.99 and, included with the camera, comes Uno, a 1 month trial of Xbox Live Gold, a 360 headset, and Totemball (<--not really). Also, the camera will work as a webcam for any computer (there is no mic in the camera, so you will need one of those if you plan to use it on your PC or laptop). 2.7.20 Also, be on the lookout for these brand new accessories for the Xbox 360: 2.8 Xbox 360 Dashboard, Guide, and Family Settings: 2.8.1 New to the Xbox 360 is the Xbox 360 Guide (located on the 360 controller and remotes, the silver/green X) and the re-innovation of the Xbox Dashboard. Both, which are very simple and their design and structure, have numerous uses which may seem a bit confusing to someone who's not familiar with the Xbox game system. In order to ease the amount of frustration on new users, here are some guides to help you understand both of these applications better: 2.8.2 The Xbox 360 Dashboard 2.8.3 The Xbox 360 Guide 2.8.4 Also new to the system are the Family Settings. With this, parents can control what types of games their kids are playing, their online options with Xbox Live, as well as other things that could "endanger" their children . For a description on this option, check out The Family Settings Page on Xbox.com. 2.9 Xbox Live Overview: 2.9.1 Xbox Live is an online multiplayer gaming and content delivery system supporting voice chat through a headset, bundled with the Xbox 360 premium package and the Xbox Live starter kit or available separately. Once signed in to the Xbox Live service, the user sets up a username called a “gamertag” which is his/her online identity. There is a friends list of up to 100 other users, as well as a mail-like system of text, voice, or picture messages which can be used to send a message to an online/offline user. 2.9.2 On the Xbox 360, whenever the user's console is powered on and is signed in to Xbox Live, the user's friends list and ability to send messages is available. Also, users have the ability to link their gamertag to a profile on the official Xbox website. On the Xbox, this is only available in Xbox Live or “Live Aware” games. 2.9.3 The system also reports friends' activity on their system, typically the game being played, (although the system supports more detailed information like the player's progress through the game, for example). 2.9.4 A new feature for the Xbox Live service on the Xbox 360 is the “Microsoft Points.” This is a system of based transactions between the user and Microsoft for such things as games only available through online arcade service called the Xbox Live Arcade as well as other things for your gamertag or system, and there are prepaid subscription cards available for the 360, cutting down the amount of separate credit card transactions Microsoft handles and allowing users without credit cards access to the service. Additionally users have viewable profiles, listing in-game "achievements" which can be accessed through the 360 itself or via the internet. 2.9.5 The main attributes of Xbox 360 Live are: Gamertags for user identification, “Gamer Pictures” that provide your gamertag with an avatar, mottos or catchphrases for display on gamer profiles, “GamerZones” which represents your gaming style and influences player matchmaking (Recreation, Pro, Family, Underground), the ability to change your gamertag for 800 Microsoft Points, in-game achievements that are listed with gamer tags and can be compared with friends' achievements, a reputation rating which is voted on by other players who decide to either prefer or avoid another player, “Gamerscores” which are a total of a player's achievement points, a friends list which is a list of a player's chosen friends, a “Recent Players” list which lists the last 50 players one user has played with, Xbox Live Marketplace content, multiplayer online gameplay, TrueSkill - a skill-based ranking system that is used across all games, enhanced matchmaking using cumulative gamerscore, reputation, location/language profile and skill level, and “Live Anywhere” which will enable a variety of non-Xbox platforms such as a Windows Vista PC, Windows Mobile phones, and Java-enabled phones to connect to Xbox Live. 2.9.6 Before you sign up for Xbox Live, here are a couple links you may want to look at before committing to this: 2.9.7 Connecting to Xbox Live 2.9.8 Xbox Live Terms of Use and Privacy Statement 2.9.9 *Note: If you are under 18 and signing up for Xbox Live, you will have to deal with the family settings (as mentioned above) when setting up your account.* 2.9.10 For a helpful guide on getting the most out of your 360 online experience, check out these links: 2.9.11 Messaging 2.9.12 Voice Communications 2.9.13 Video Chat 2.9.14 Friends 2.9.15 Roaming 2.9.16 Matchmaking 2.9.17 Feedback 2.9.18 Guests 2.10 Connecting to Xbox Live/System Link: 2.10.1 This is one of the more confusing parts of the Xbox Live process, but it doesn't have to be. You have numerous options available to use to connect to Xbox Live, mainly via wired/wireless routers. For helpful guides on how to use each option of connection, check out the following links: 2.10.2 Intro to Connection Methods 2.10.3 Router Connection 2.10.4 Wireless Connection 2.10.5 More Specific Overview of Wireless Connection 2.10.6 Gateway Connection 2.10.7 Direct Modem Connection 2.10.8 Windows ICS Connection 2.10.9 Compatible Network Equipment 2.10.10 Advanced Networking 2.10.11 My 2 cents' worth: I prefer the wired router connection or Direct Modem connection. It's not as easy and probably not as cheap as the wireless path, but I already had a router before Xbox Live and I tend to think of wired as more reliable (and faster). However, if you do choose wireless, I would STRONGLY recommend you to purchase this item. I have heard nothing but great things about it and it is $20+ dollars as opposed to the expensive official Microsoft wireless adapter. 2.10.12 Along with the idea of setting up Xbox Live is also the feature to have a system link (for things such as LAN parties, etc.). You are able to link an Original Xbox and Xbox 360 together, as long as the game is compatible with both systems. For a more in depth look at this, go here. 2.11 Xbox Live Silver vs. Gold: 2.11.1 Xbox Live Silver - With Xbox Live Silver you can create a gamertag and profile, access the Xbox Live Marketplace, send/receive voice and text messages, "Voice Chat" with another person over the headset, receive video messages from Gold members (not an Austin Powers reference)*, and access MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) games. Best of all, it's FREE. 2.11.2 Note: every so often, Xbox Live will grant the Silver members a chance to play as Gold on certain days. 2.11.3 Xbox Live Gold - With Xbox Live Gold you can do all of the things mentioned in Silver, but you also get to participate in multiplayer games online with everyone else on Live at all times, video chat*, play in tournaments, and Participate in Xbox Live online programming (such as Game with Fame, Play and Win, and Prime Time activities). The price for this is $50 for a year, $20 for 3 months, $8 for a month (if you do the math, a year's worth is cheaper per month). You can pay with either a credit card, or you can purchase a Subscription Card for the same price. 2.12 Account Management: 2.12.1 With your Xbox 360 account, you are given a ton of options to help you manage every aspect of your Xbox Live membership. From setting protective passcodes to your account, to having the option to change/modify your billing information, and also being able to smoothly renew/cancel your membership or allow the input or output of your information to other people. Here are some links to check out for a more in-depth look at all the options: 2.12.2 Intro to Account Management 2.12.3 Pass Codes for Xbox Live 2.12.4 Modifying Billing/Personal Information 2.12.5 Renewing Your Membership 2.12.6 Cancel Your Membership 2.12.7 Sharing of Your Information 2.13 Original Xbox to Xbox 360 Gamertag Migration: 2.13.1 So you already have an Xbox Live gamertag for your original Xbox? If so, the signing up process for Xbox Live for your new 360 will be a breeze. You will be able to keep your same gamertag and you will still be able to play Xbox Live with your original Xbox once you sign up for the 360 Live service. To easily migrate your gamertag over to the new system, follow this link and this online wizard will guide you through the process: Migration Wizard 2.13.2 For a better overview of the process, check out the Official Xbox 360 Account Migration Center 2.14 Xbox Live MarketPlace: 2.14.1 The Xbox Live Marketplace, which is accessible via the 360 Dashboard, is an online center created for things such as extra maps for games, new content such as weapons, clothes, gametypes, themes or game pictures, demos, etc. It is divided up into 4 main sections: Games, Media and Entertainment, Demos and Game Videos, and Themes and Gamer Pictures. To purchase most of the content available in the Marketplace, you will need "Microsoft points" which are the equivalent of money or credits. You purchase these either with your credit card on the Dashboard, or in local stores. Prices on content varies, and to see how much the points translates into real money, here is the Microsoft Points Converter 2.14.2 Games - Includes a section for Newly Released Downloads and a section for All Game Downloads. Also has links to your played games, the Xbox Live Arcade, the game demos on your HD, and the Trailers and Game Videos section. 2.14.3 Media and Entertainment - Includes sections for New Releases, All Media and Entertainment, Movie Trailers and Short Films, Television, Music, Sports and More, Gaming Community Videos, Game Tips and Support Videos, and Optional iPod Support. 2.14.4 Demos and Game Videos - Includes two sections for the Newly Released Game Demos and All Game Demos. Also has links to other parts of the Marketplace sections. 2.14.5 Themes and Gamer Pictures - Includes 4 sections (2 for gamer pics, 2 for themes) for Newly Released Gamer Pictures, Newly Released Themes, All Gamer Pictures, and All Themes. 2.14.6 If you have any questions regarding new demos out, new gamerpics or themes, or anything involving the Marketplace, visit the official Marketplace thread for this month here 2.15 Xbox Live Arcade 2.15.1 Xbox Live Arcade is the central destination for Xbox 360 gamers to find, download, try, and buy smaller games on the Xbox 360 console. The Xbox Live Arcade offers a large catalog of fun, broad-appeal games that can be downloaded via Xbox Live.Arcade is perfect for the hardcore gamer who's looking for bite-sized entertainment, or for a casual player looking to get into the game. The games offered in the Xbox Live Arcade come from a wide variety of genres, including puzzle games, retro arcade favorites, action games, card & board titles, and more. New games are released frequently on the Xbox Live Arcade, creating an ever-growing portfolio of titles for players to choose from each month. Every Xbox 360 Xbox Live Arcade game supports the full set of Xbox 360 features. These features include hi-definition output, achievements, gamerscores, custom soundtracks, and more. In fact, most Xbox Live Arcade games support multiplayer play over Xbox Live. What's more, some of the old-school coin-op games even support multiplayer play. 2.15.2 ***Be on the lookout for deals involving the Microsoft Points, such as the Overstock "$15 for 1600 points" sale or the Best Buy 1600 point card for $15 (using the GGC)*** 2.15.3 The Complete List of Live Arcade Games for the Xbox 360: 2.15.4 Astro Pop - 800pts 2.15.5 Bankshot Billiards 2 - 1,200pts 2.15.6 Bejeweled 2 DLX - 800pts 2.15.7 Crystal Quest - 400pts 2.15.8 Contra - 400pts 2.15.9 Cloning Clyde - 800pts 2.15.10 Defender 400pts 2.15.11 Dig Dug - 400pts 2.15.12 DOOM - 800pts 2.15.13 Feeding Frenzy - 800pts 2.15.14 Frogger - 400pts 2.15.15 Galaga - 400pts 2.15.16 Gauntlet - 400pts 2.15.17 Geometry Wars - 400pts 2.15.18 Hardwood Backgammon - 400pts 2.15.19 Hardwood Hearts - 400pts 2.15.20 Hardwood Spades - 400pts 2.15.21 Hexic HD - N/A 2.15.22 Jewel Quest - 800pts 2.15.23 Joust - 400pts 2.15.24 Lunines Live! - 1200pts 2.15.25 Marble Blast Ultra - 800pts 2.15.26 Mutant Storm Reloaded - 800pts 2.15.27 Outpost Kaloki X - 800pts 2.15.28 Pac-Man - 400pts 2.15.29 Robotron: 2084 - 400pts 2.15.30 Roboblitz - 1200pts 2.15.31 Scramble - 400pts 2.15.32 Small Arms - 800pts 2.15.33 Smash T.V. - 400pts 2.15.34 Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting - 800pts 2.15.35 Texas Hold'em - 800pts 2.15.36 Time Pilot - 400pts 2.15.37 Totem Ball - 0pts 2.15.38 Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 - 800pts 2.15.39 UNO - 400pts 2.15.40 Wik: Fable of Souls - 800pts 2.15.41 Zuma DLX - 800pts 2.16 Xbox Live Connection Troubleshooting: 2.16.1 Most of the problems that deal with connecting to games or friends' games online deals with your network's NAT setting. It has 3 different options: Open, Closed, and Moderate. To be able to connect to any/every game, you want your setting to be on Open. How do you change this, you ask? Well, you will have to forward ports. Fun huh? To help, here is CAG's own pimpinc333's guide to changing this problem: Pimp's Thread 2.17 Non-HD vs. HD: 2.17.1 I play with HD on my home tv but at college I am restricted to a 21 inch nonHD tv and I personally think it is still worth the price to pick up the system. Sure HD makes a difference, but it's not like it's color vs. black and white. The main differences you would encounter is lighting and sharpness in the environments or backgrounds. Bottomline: HD is not required to enjoy the 360. However, in games like Dead Rising or Prey, for example, text may not always be legible, which causes some light frustration, but doesn't take away from the overall aura of the game (and in the grand scheme of things is really unimportant). 2.18 Warranty: 2.18.1 MAKE SURE you get an extended warranty for this console. As usual, for a system still in its first stages, there will be problems that arise that require you to send off your 360 for repair. I can't stress enough how much importance should be placed on getting this, it can and will save you from much stress. The offer comes with the 360 inside the box. 2.18.2 With the 360 system comes a 90 day warranty. This means that once you send it in, the warrantly lasts you 90 days (not meaning that you have 90 days to do it). After this inital 90 day period is over, you must purchase either a one year or two year plan if you wish to have your system protected under warranty. 2.18.3 For a 2-year warranty, be prepared to dish out $60 for the 2 year or $30 for 1 year. Call the #1-800-469-9269 and have your serial number ready for when you call. For more information regarding the warranty, here's the link to the Official Microsoft Warranty page 2.19 Windows Media Center, Windows Media Connect and Streaming Music/Photos/Videos to your 360: 2.19.1 With the 360, you are able to stream music from folders on your computer as well as many pictures and videos from your disposal. To be able to do this, you must first make sure your 360 is hooked up to your PC. Next, you need to download a version of Windows Media Connect. After downloading, make sure both your 360 and PC are running and run the program. Once it is done, select your desired music/photo folders and add them to the shared section of the program and go to your 360 Dashboard and find/select them. 2.19.2 Personal note: I think it is VERY VERY important that, if you are going to have a large music selection to choose from for your custom soundtracks, that you organize your music files very neatly, as it will make it soooo much easier to choose what you want from the list on the 360 (aka go into Properties and fill the basic artist, song, album info in - if not more - for each song). 2.19.3 You do not need Windows Media Center simply for music or photos, it is only a necessity if you choose to stream videos to your 360. It is a program you have to pay for, unlike the Media Connect which is free to everyone (unless it came installed on your laptop/PC or if you find some illegal version). 2.19.4 To learn how to connect your digital camera or portable audio player to your 360, look at the following links: 2.19.5 Digital Camera Hook-up 2.19.6 Portable Audio Player Hook-up 2.20 Troubleshooting: 2.20.1 The Quick Help Xbox Support Site 2.20.2 The Help and Support Database 2.20.3 Contact Xbox Support through e-mail, chat, or phone 2.20.4 Common Error Codes FAQ 2.20.5 System and Game Updates for the Xbox 360 2.20.6 Two Red Flashing Lights 2.20.7 Three Red Flashing Lights 2.20.8 The Ring of Death 2.20.9 System Freezing 2.20.10 System Shutting Itself Off

External links

• Xbox 360 on Wikipedia

General Xbox 360 Information for Recent/Potential Buyers!

Reasons to avoid the Xbox 360 or Xbox Live:

360 -

1. Full Backwards Compatibility has not been reached (see CheapyD's thread located here for more technical information). Many games have been left off the BC list, some of those being great games. If being able to play every single Xbox game on this system is a crucial point in your purchasing of a system then the 360 misses here (at least for now, no clear picture on the future of the BC of the 360).

2. Regional Zones for this system prevent the play of imported games on your 360. For example, if you wanted to import a Japanese game to play on your American Xbox 360, it would not work.

3. Price. Sure, compared to Sony's Playstation 3 which will start at $500 dollars, $300-$400 doesn't sound too bad. But, it is a lot of money, especially once you get a couple games, the play and charge kit, an extra controller, and the Xbox Live service. Most new games will be priced at $60 ($70 for Limited Edition games) and Arcade games range from $5-$10.

Xbox Live -

1. No broadband internet. No high-speed internet means no online playing whatsoever.

Premium vs. Core:

Core - $300 - Comes with wired controller, no harddrive, standard A/V cable, and the system.

Premium - $400 - Comes with wireless controller, 20GB harddrive, component HD A/V cable, ethernet cord for online play, Xbox Live headset, and the system.

What's the difference? With the Core you pay less and receive a lot less. If you prefer memory cards, do not own an HD tv, and have no preference on a wired/wireless controller this system is for you. The Premium is actually cheaper for the things that you receive. The harddrive is $100 and the wireless controller is $10 more expensive than the wired. Also, you get the Live headset and a bump in A/V cables. It all boils down to the harddrive. If you would rather purchase memory cards to take it's place, then that's your call (memory cards are $40 and can hold 64MB vs. the 20GB harddrive).

360 Deals:

Currently, there is no plan from Microsoft to lower the price of the Premium or Core system here in America. Any price drops rumored are considered false, according to Microsoft officials. Stay tuned after the release of both the Sony Playstation 3 and the Nintendo Wii to see if they change their mind, or if they unveil some sort of plan to counter the impact of these two new systems. With that being said, here are some deals being offered as of early December:

Burnout Revenge Walmart Bundle

Overstock $325 Xbox 360 Premium Deal w/ 20% Coupon Thanks, pop311!

Xbox 360 Premium Console with free Madden 07 $400 shipped at Amazon Thanks, Airedack!

System Setup:

With the introduction of a new system to someone who's not familiar with the Xbox or Microsoft products, it can be pretty confusing getting everything set up and working the way it should be. Have no fear! Here are some very helpful links that will guide you through each process of the Xbox 360 setup:

Connecting the Xbox 360

Connecting the Xbox 360 to the Power Supply

Positioning of the Xbox 360

Connecting the Xbox 360 to the Wired Controller

Connecting the Xbox 360 to the Wireless Controller

Connecting the Xbox 360 to Digital Audio

Games to Get for the 360:

This is the most objective advice I can give to anyone on this topic. If you have a 360 or if you visit any EB/Gamestop, Best Buy, Circuit City, most Walmarts (etc.) then you have access to numerous demos. If you have the 360, take advantage of this..download as many game demos as you possibly can from the Marketplace - remember, you can have 6 downloads going at once while still using the console for something else. If you don't have the console yet, go to the stores mentioned above and play on the kiosks (good luck getting the drooling kid off of the controller first though at that store). All of the systems set up that I have seen have had Call of Duty 2, Fight Night Round 3, Project Gotham Racing 3, Full Auto, King Kong, and Kameo game demos on it. Since then, they've probably been updated with even more. Of course those with the system already have the advantage in this case, but, those without it aren't hopeless if none of those in-store demos interest you. You already know what types of games you like before you even start looking at the selection. If you're into racing you choose between arcade racers like Burnout Revenge, Full Auto, and Need For Speed: Most Wanted, and simulation racers like Project Gotham Racing 3 and MotoGP 06. Shooters and action games have a wide range (as always) so you will have to decide what type of shooting/action you like: war combat, futuristic combat, shoot 'em ups, and the list goes on. Sports games also just depend on your personal preference. The list of RPGs and fighters right now is very small with a clear choice for both: Elder Scrolls: Oblivion and Dead or Alive 4. If you're not sure you're ready to throw down $50-60 bucks yet, don't worry, because there is also a much cheaper solution: the Xbox Live Arcade. I personally have been hooked on games like Hexic, Geometry Wars, Uno, Gauntlet, Smash TV, and Hearts. They range from $5-$12 and seem to be very popular amongst the general community. Some even play these more than regular 360 games because of their addictiveness. Also, when you buy games directly from the Marketplace on your 360 Dashboard, you save money vs. going to a store to buy Microsoft Point cards (save enough to pretty much buy another 400 point game).

For the popular opinion of which game to buy, here is the Gamerankings list of most popular games (make sure to search under 360 games only): GameRankings

Also, for the full list of Backwards Compatible games for the 360: BC list

A really good site to pick up newer games for $40 is PlayAsia. These games are region-free, meaning that they can be played on any 360 anywhere, and these are Asian games fully translated into English. A great deal for anyone wanting new 360 games for a cheap price: PlayAsia 360

Games available so far on PlayAsia:

Assassin's Creed (Collector's Edition w/ figure)

Blazing Angels: Squadrons of WWII

Call of Duty 2

Call of Duty 3

Far Cry Instincts: Predator

Gears of War

Gears of War (Limited Edition)

Hitman: Blood Money

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance *backordered*

MotoGP '06 *backordered*

Prey

Saints Row

Rainbow Six: Vegas

Splinter Cell: Double Agent

Tomb Raider: Legend

Viva Pinata (Limited Edition)

X-Men: The Official Game

360 Blockbusters on the Horizon:

Crackdown

Fuzion Frenzy 2

Forza 2

Half Life 2: Episode 2

Lost Planet

Assassin's Creed

Burnout 5

Halo 3

BioShock

The Darkness

Mass Effect

Grand Theft Auto IV

Accessories to buy:

It depends on preference for wired vs. wireless. The wired is slightly lighter (because of no battery pack) but the wireless you can take anywhere in your room, apartment, or house and it will most likely work (don't know the exact range the 360 can detect your controller at). If you do purchase a wireless controller you will probably want to have the Play and Charge kit for each controller. This allows you to hook up an adapter to the top of the controller during play or standby which charges the battery in the controller. The alternative is plowing through AA batteries whenever the battery is running out of juice. If you haven't purchased a router yet and you plan on getting Xbox Live, check this list for the official Xbox live routers: Live Compatible Routers . As long as you don't have the router in the DO NOT section, it will work with Xbox Live (you may have to open ports though for it to work at it's max).

Here are some good descriptions/guides for the main 360 accessories:

Xbox 360

Xbox 360 Headset

Xbox 360 Universal Remote

Xbox 360 Memory Units

Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit

Xbox 360 S-Video AV Cable

Xbox 360 VGA HD AV Cable

Xbox 360 Composite AV Cable

Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter

Xbox Live Vision Camera:

This Fall, Microsoft released a webcam called the Vision camera, giving each Live member new options to get the most out of the Live experience. These webcams come with an array of uses, mainly to:

1. Add a face to your gamertag in online matches (mainly card games now, such as Uno, Spades, Hearts, and other arcade games like Bankshot Billiards).

2. To (soon) be able to add your face to characters in games such as Poker or Rainbow Six: Vegas via facemapping.

3. Send picture messages to friends and recently played opponents the same way you'd send voice or text messages.

4. To create your own personal gamerpic for all your friends to see.

5. To use in games like Totemball, where the camera becomes the controller for your character.

The camera retails for $39.99 and, included with the camera, comes Uno, a 1 month trial of Xbox Live Gold, a 360 headset, and Totemball (<--not really). Also, the camera will work as a webcam for any computer (there is no mic in the camera, so you will need one of those if you plan to use it on your PC or laptop).

Also, be on the lookout for these brand new accessories for the Xbox 360:

Xbox 360 Dashboard, Guide, and Family Settings:

New to the Xbox 360 is the Xbox 360 Guide (located on the 360 controller and remotes, the silver/green X) and the re-innovation of the Xbox Dashboard. Both, which are very simple and their design and structure, have numerous uses which may seem a bit confusing to someone who's not familiar with the Xbox game system. In order to ease the amount of frustration on new users, here are some guides to help you understand both of these applications better:

The Xbox 360 Dashboard

The Xbox 360 Guide

Also new to the system are the Family Settings. With this, parents can control what types of games their kids are playing, their online options with Xbox Live, as well as other things that could "endanger" their children . For a description on this option, check out The Family Settings Page on Xbox.com.

Xbox Live Overview:

Xbox Live is an online multiplayer gaming and content delivery system supporting voice chat through a headset, bundled with the Xbox 360 premium package and the Xbox Live starter kit or available separately. Once signed in to the Xbox Live service, the user sets up a username called a “gamertag” which is his/her online identity. There is a friends list of up to 100 other users, as well as a mail-like system of text, voice, or picture messages which can be used to send a message to an online/offline user.

On the Xbox 360, whenever the user's console is powered on and is signed in to Xbox Live, the user's friends list and ability to send messages is available. Also, users have the ability to link their gamertag to a profile on the official Xbox website. On the Xbox, this is only available in Xbox Live or “Live Aware” games.

The system also reports friends' activity on their system, typically the game being played, (although the system supports more detailed information like the player's progress through the game, for example).

A new feature for the Xbox Live service on the Xbox 360 is the “Microsoft Points.” This is a system of based transactions between the user and Microsoft for such things as games only available through online arcade service called the Xbox Live Arcade as well as other things for your gamertag or system, and there are prepaid subscription cards available for the 360, cutting down the amount of separate credit card transactions Microsoft handles and allowing users without credit cards access to the service. Additionally users have viewable profiles, listing in-game "achievements" which can be accessed through the 360 itself or via the internet.

The main attributes of Xbox 360 Live are: Gamertags for user identification, “Gamer Pictures” that provide your gamertag with an avatar, mottos or catchphrases for display on gamer profiles, “GamerZones” which represents your gaming style and influences player matchmaking (Recreation, Pro, Family, Underground), the ability to change your gamertag for 800 Microsoft Points, in-game achievements that are listed with gamer tags and can be compared with friends' achievements, a reputation rating which is voted on by other players who decide to either prefer or avoid another player, “Gamerscores” which are a total of a player's achievement points, a friends list which is a list of a player's chosen friends, a “Recent Players” list which lists the last 50 players one user has played with, Xbox Live Marketplace content, multiplayer online gameplay, TrueSkill - a skill-based ranking system that is used across all games, enhanced matchmaking using cumulative gamerscore, reputation, location/language profile and skill level, and “Live Anywhere” which will enable a variety of non-Xbox platforms such as a Windows Vista PC, Windows Mobile phones, and Java-enabled phones to connect to Xbox Live.

Before you sign up for Xbox Live, here are a couple links you may want to look at before committing to this:

Connecting to Xbox Live

Xbox Live Terms of Use and Privacy Statement

*Note: If you are under 18 and signing up for Xbox Live, you will have to deal with the family settings (as mentioned above) when setting up your account.*

For a helpful guide on getting the most out of your 360 online experience, check out these links:

Messaging

Voice Communications

Video Chat

Friends

Roaming

Matchmaking

Feedback

Guests

Connecting to Xbox Live/System Link:

This is one of the more confusing parts of the Xbox Live process, but it doesn't have to be. You have numerous options available to use to connect to Xbox Live, mainly via wired/wireless routers. For helpful guides on how to use each option of connection, check out the following links:

Intro to Connection Methods

Router Connection

Wireless Connection

More Specific Overview of Wireless Connection

Gateway Connection

Direct Modem Connection

Windows ICS Connection

Compatible Network Equipment

Advanced Networking

My 2 cents' worth: I prefer the wired router connection or Direct Modem connection. It's not as easy and probably not as cheap as the wireless path, but I already had a router before Xbox Live and I tend to think of wired as more reliable (and faster). However, if you do choose wireless, I would STRONGLY recommend you to purchase this item. I have heard nothing but great things about it and it is $20+ dollars as opposed to the expensive official Microsoft wireless adapter.

Along with the idea of setting up Xbox Live is also the feature to have a system link (for things such as LAN parties, etc.). You are able to link an Original Xbox and Xbox 360 together, as long as the game is compatible with both systems. For a more in depth look at this, go here.

Xbox Live Silver vs. Gold:

Xbox Live Silver - With Xbox Live Silver you can create a gamertag and profile, access the Xbox Live Marketplace, send/receive voice and text messages, "Voice Chat" with another person over the headset, receive video messages from Gold members (not an Austin Powers reference)*, and access MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) games. Best of all, it's FREE.

Note: every so often, Xbox Live will grant the Silver members a chance to play as Gold on certain days.

Xbox Live Gold - With Xbox Live Gold you can do all of the things mentioned in Silver, but you also get to participate in multiplayer games online with everyone else on Live at all times, video chat*, play in tournaments, and Participate in Xbox Live online programming (such as Game with Fame, Play and Win, and Prime Time activities). The price for this is $50 for a year, $20 for 3 months, $8 for a month (if you do the math, a year's worth is cheaper per month). You can pay with either a credit card, or you can purchase a Subscription Card for the same price.

Account Management:

With your Xbox 360 account, you are given a ton of options to help you manage every aspect of your Xbox Live membership. From setting protective passcodes to your account, to having the option to change/modify your billing information, and also being able to smoothly renew/cancel your membership or allow the input or output of your information to other people. Here are some links to check out for a more in-depth look at all the options:

Intro to Account Management

Pass Codes for Xbox Live

Modifying Billing/Personal Information

Renewing Your Membership

Cancel Your Membership

Sharing of Your Information

Original Xbox to Xbox 360 Gamertag Migration:

So you already have an Xbox Live gamertag for your original Xbox? If so, the signing up process for Xbox Live for your new 360 will be a breeze. You will be able to keep your same gamertag and you will still be able to play Xbox Live with your original Xbox once you sign up for the 360 Live service. To easily migrate your gamertag over to the new system, follow this link and this online wizard will guide you through the process: Migration Wizard

For a better overview of the process, check out the Official Xbox 360 Account Migration Center

Xbox Live MarketPlace:

The Xbox Live Marketplace, which is accessible via the 360 Dashboard, is an online center created for things such as extra maps for games, new content such as weapons, clothes, gametypes, themes or game pictures, demos, etc. It is divided up into 4 main sections: Games, Media and Entertainment, Demos and Game Videos, and Themes and Gamer Pictures. To purchase most of the content available in the Marketplace, you will need "Microsoft points" which are the equivalent of money or credits. You purchase these either with your credit card on the Dashboard, or in local stores. Prices on content varies, and to see how much the points translates into real money, here is the Microsoft Points Converter

Games - Includes a section for Newly Released Downloads and a section for All Game Downloads. Also has links to your played games, the Xbox Live Arcade, the game demos on your HD, and the Trailers and Game Videos section.

Media and Entertainment - Includes sections for New Releases, All Media and Entertainment, Movie Trailers and Short Films, Television, Music, Sports and More, Gaming Community Videos, Game Tips and Support Videos, and Optional iPod Support.

Demos and Game Videos - Includes two sections for the Newly Released Game Demos and All Game Demos. Also has links to other parts of the Marketplace sections.

Themes and Gamer Pictures - Includes 4 sections (2 for gamer pics, 2 for themes) for Newly Released Gamer Pictures, Newly Released Themes, All Gamer Pictures, and All Themes.

If you have any questions regarding new demos out, new gamerpics or themes, or anything involving the Marketplace, visit the official Marketplace thread for this month here

Xbox Live Arcade

Xbox Live Arcade is the central destination for Xbox 360 gamers to find, download, try, and buy smaller games on the Xbox 360 console. The Xbox Live Arcade offers a large catalog of fun, broad-appeal games that can be downloaded via Xbox Live.Arcade is perfect for the hardcore gamer who's looking for bite-sized entertainment, or for a casual player looking to get into the game. The games offered in the Xbox Live Arcade come from a wide variety of genres, including puzzle games, retro arcade favorites, action games, card & board titles, and more. New games are released frequently on the Xbox Live Arcade, creating an ever-growing portfolio of titles for players to choose from each month. Every Xbox 360 Xbox Live Arcade game supports the full set of Xbox 360 features. These features include hi-definition output, achievements, gamerscores, custom soundtracks, and more. In fact, most Xbox Live Arcade games support multiplayer play over Xbox Live. What's more, some of the old-school coin-op games even support multiplayer play.

***Be on the lookout for deals involving the Microsoft Points, such as the Overstock "$15 for 1600 points" sale or the Best Buy 1600 point card for $15 (using the GGC)***

The Complete List of Live Arcade Games for the Xbox 360:

Astro Pop - 800pts

Bankshot Billiards 2 - 1,200pts

Bejeweled 2 DLX - 800pts

Crystal Quest - 400pts

Contra - 400pts

Cloning Clyde - 800pts

Defender 400pts

Dig Dug - 400pts

DOOM - 800pts

Feeding Frenzy - 800pts

Frogger - 400pts

Galaga - 400pts

Gauntlet - 400pts

Geometry Wars - 400pts

Hardwood Backgammon - 400pts

Hardwood Hearts - 400pts

Hardwood Spades - 400pts

Hexic HD - N/A

Jewel Quest - 800pts

Joust - 400pts

Lunines Live! - 1200pts

Marble Blast Ultra - 800pts

Mutant Storm Reloaded - 800pts

Outpost Kaloki X - 800pts

Pac-Man - 400pts

Robotron: 2084 - 400pts

Roboblitz - 1200pts

Scramble - 400pts

Small Arms - 800pts

Smash T.V. - 400pts

Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting - 800pts

Texas Hold'em - 800pts

Time Pilot - 400pts

Totem Ball - 0pts

Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 - 800pts

UNO - 400pts

Wik: Fable of Souls - 800pts

Zuma DLX - 800pts

Xbox Live Connection Troubleshooting:

Most of the problems that deal with connecting to games or friends' games online deals with your network's NAT setting. It has 3 different options: Open, Closed, and Moderate. To be able to connect to any/every game, you want your setting to be on Open. How do you change this, you ask? Well, you will have to forward ports. Fun huh? To help, here is CAG's own pimpinc333's guide to changing this problem: Pimp's Thread

Non-HD vs. HD:

I play with HD on my home tv but at college I am restricted to a 21 inch nonHD tv and I personally think it is still worth the price to pick up the system. Sure HD makes a difference, but it's not like it's color vs. black and white. The main differences you would encounter is lighting and sharpness in the environments or backgrounds. Bottomline: HD is not required to enjoy the 360. However, in games like Dead Rising or Prey, for example, text may not always be legible, which causes some light frustration, but doesn't take away from the overall aura of the game (and in the grand scheme of things is really unimportant).

Warranty:

MAKE SURE you get an extended warranty for this console. As usual, for a system still in its first stages, there will be problems that arise that require you to send off your 360 for repair. I can't stress enough how much importance should be placed on getting this, it can and will save you from much stress. The offer comes with the 360 inside the box.

With the 360 system comes a 90 day warranty. This means that once you send it in, the warrantly lasts you 90 days (not meaning that you have 90 days to do it). After this inital 90 day period is over, you must purchase either a one year or two year plan if you wish to have your system protected under warranty.

For a 2-year warranty, be prepared to dish out $60 for the 2 year or $30 for 1 year. Call the #1-800-469-9269 and have your serial number ready for when you call. For more information regarding the warranty, here's the link to the Official Microsoft Warranty page

Windows Media Center, Windows Media Connect and Streaming Music/Photos/Videos to your 360:

With the 360, you are able to stream music from folders on your computer as well as many pictures and videos from your disposal. To be able to do this, you must first make sure your 360 is hooked up to your PC. Next, you need to download a version of Windows Media Connect. After downloading, make sure both your 360 and PC are running and run the program. Once it is done, select your desired music/photo folders and add them to the shared section of the program and go to your 360 Dashboard and find/select them.

Personal note: I think it is VERY VERY important that, if you are going to have a large music selection to choose from for your custom soundtracks, that you organize your music files very neatly, as it will make it soooo much easier to choose what you want from the list on the 360 (aka go into Properties and fill the basic artist, song, album info in - if not more - for each song).

You do not need Windows Media Center simply for music or photos, it is only a necessity if you choose to stream videos to your 360. It is a program you have to pay for, unlike the Media Connect which is free to everyone (unless it came installed on your laptop/PC or if you find some illegal version).

To learn how to connect your digital camera or portable audio player to your 360, look at the following links:

Digital Camera Hook-up

Portable Audio Player Hook-up

Troubleshooting:

The Quick Help Xbox Support Site

The Help and Support Database

Contact Xbox Support through e-mail, chat, or phone

Common Error Codes FAQ

System and Game Updates for the Xbox 360

Two Red Flashing Lights

Three Red Flashing Lights

The Ring of Death

System Freezing

System Shutting Itself Off