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 The 360 can output games at 480p, 720p and 1080i resolutions. |
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Features
Microsoft claims the 360 is the most powerful next generation console, and while it will be a while before we can verify that (with the PlayStation 3 and Revolution still far on the horizon), it certainly boasts some impressive specs on paper. Those not interested in tech specs may want to skip to the next paragraph, but one of the most impressive things about the 360 is it is powered by not one, but three customised IBM PowerPC CPUs running at 3.2GHz each. The 360 has an installed GDDR3 RAM size of 512MB, and it features a purpose-built video processor (an ATI Xbox 360 GPU 256-bit 2D/3D card) with 10MB of video RAM installed. On the audio side of things, it can pump out 16-bit surround sound and has a maximum sample rate of 48KHz.
All the tech jargon aside, what this means is that the 360 is essentially an ultra powerful computer with the ability to output games at high definition resolutions. In fact, Microsoft says all 360 games will be capable of being played at at least 720p resolution (1280x720 progressive), with many games having the ability to play at 1080i (1920x1080 interlaced). This means smooth, clear graphics the likes of which current generation consoles can only dream about - providing you have a high definition television, of course. To get the best out of the Xbox 360, gamers will need to plug the console into a high definition-capable display either via a component cable or digital VGA. Strangely, Microsoft did not build-in support for HDMI connectivity.
The Xbox 360 has the ability to take up to four wireless controllers at once (although those buying the Core System at launch will still be stuck with a wired controller). The feeling of having the cord cut between you and a gaming console is liberating -- once you play with a wireless controller, you won't look back. The 360's wireless controllers run on two AA batteries, which should last roughly 40 hours. Thankfully, Microsoft will also be releasing some accessories that make the batteries on the wireless controllers rechargeable. The Play and Charge Unit, for example, lets you play with your wireless controller hooked to the Xbox 360 while also recharging it, while the Quick Charge Unit accessory lets you charge your controller's battery quickly.
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 This panel at the front of the 360 hides two USB 2.0 ports. |
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Microsoft obviously wants the 360 to be an integral part of any entertainment area, as it has built in Windows Media Center capabilities. When plugged into a home network that features a Media Center-enabled PC, the 360 can act as a Media Center extender, allowing you to stream any music, video and images stored on the PC. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi is not a built-in feature with the 360 -- if you want to connect the console to your wireless network, you'll need to buy a 360 Wireless Network Adapter.
But the multimedia goodness doesn't stop there for the 360. The console has three USB 2.0 ports which can be used to connect other USB-capable devices, such as MP3 players, cameras and more. Simply plug in the device and voila - the 360 should recognise it as an extra drive and allow you to access its multimedia content.
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ConnorDavies
16/07/2008, 09:38 AM
rating
9/10
By FAR the BEST gaming device/console ever made.
Pros: - Graphics
- Variety of GOOD games
- VERY, VERY Entertaining
Cons: - Poorly made console - so many stories of consoles breaking down! Its like the 360 has a set (short) LIFE SPAN!
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kadochump
14/07/2008, 01:06 PM
rating
9/10
i have all systems and i like the wii is my favourite. Wii is fun and entertaining with titles such as RE4 and SSBB, Ps3 is my HD experience and X360 is a real gaming machine :)
Pros: DVD, Online play, Games Range (Ninja Gaiden 2, Halo3 GOW, COD4, GTA4, Saints row, HD capabilities
Cons: Not the best HD experience out there.
Red ring of Death
Controllers eat my batteries up.
Power Brick
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mahesh2772
05/06/2008, 01:29 PM
rating
10/10
Its awesome! great companion
Pros: good game play, online gaming is awesome and price is way to low compared to PS3
Cons: nothing really, but looks might have to be improved and a good fan to cool the temprature
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FREAKIN AWESOME REVIEWS
29/05/2008, 10:26 AM
rating
10/10
THIS CONSOLE IS THE BEST I DONT CARE WHAT ANYONE SAYS IF YOUR LOOKING FOR GOOD GAMEPLAY AND GREAT ONLINE PLAY WITH OUTSTANDING CONTROLS AND FEATURES XBOX IS THE WAY TO GO!
PS3 IS CRAP ITS ONLY FOR MOVIES AND Wii You GET BORED OF IN A MINUTE
Pros: Freakin EVERYTHING!
Cons: NOTHING ITS UBER PWNAGE
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sputnik
24/05/2008, 09:17 AM
rating
10/10
I love this freaking game, f,ing awesome
Pros: **** better than a gey ps3 and heaps cheaper
Cons: only bad bout it is the paying for xbox lvie when u pay for your computer and your internet already
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Julzz
07/05/2008, 08:03 PM
rating
10/10
faster,cheaper, Better graphics and html Support then Ps3!
Pros: Wireless support
Xbox live.
Better Graphics
xbox updates when you put a new game in
And alot of memory
Cons: Pay for xbox live
it over heats but you can buy a cooler for xbox 360 for 30 dollers AUD!
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Julzz
07/05/2008, 07:56 PM
rating
10/10
faster,cheaper, Better graphics and html Support then Ps3!
Pros: Wireless support
Xbox live.
Better Graphics
xbox updates when you put a new game in
And alot of memory
Cons: Pay for xbox live
it over heats but you can buy a cooler for xbox 360 for 30 dollers AUD!
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Playstation = Rubbish
04/05/2008, 05:14 PM
rating
10/10
Worlds Best console. Power pack worth the saftey.
THE XBOX 360 PONES THE PLAYSTATION 3.
Playstation 3 = Rubbish
Pros: best graphics, Best Internet (XBOX LIVE), Best everything!
Cons: NONE
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Fishie
28/04/2008, 03:00 PM
rating
10/10
OMG XBOX 360 is freakin the freakin best freakin thing eva
Pros: everything
Cons: nothing
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Guni
28/04/2008, 02:58 PM
rating
10/10
This Console Is the best i've ever purchased, My friend has a Ps3 and the online and games are terrible.
Pros: AWESOME GAMES, BRILLIANT ONLINE AND SINGPLAYER GAME.
Cons: None
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