Sleeker, powerful Xbox 360 is ready for launch

Sleeker, powerful Xbox 360 is ready for launch
NEW YORK: Microsoft Corporation announced that its new Xbox 360 games console due for release 22 November will have 18 new games, including Kameo: Elements of Power and Project Gotham Racing 3. The new console is also compatible for more than 200 of the previously-released games, including Halo and Halo 2.

The core system will be priced at $299, while the premium model will carry a tag of $399. Both the systems are capable of playing DVDs, downloading music and storing photos and there is a greater emphasis on graphics and power. The premium edition has accessories like a wireless controller, headset and detachable hard drive that enables the user to carry the game along. There is also an optional faceplate to customise the gadget. The accessories are costing an additional $225. The games, sold separately, will cost $59.99 each.

The gadget is sleeker and lighter than the current Xbox. It has an ivory finish, is powered by three IBM CPU "cores," each 10 times more powerful than the single chip in the current Xbox. A custom chip from ATI and more memory — 512 megabytes compared with Xbox's 64 — makes games faster and more realistic.

Microsoft has carried out design changes in the console in collaboration with Astro Studios in San Francisco and Hers Experimental Design Laboratory in Osaka. It can stand vertically or horizontally and is designed for high-definition TV.

Xbox 360 will require a broadband connection to play games. The unit comes with a free Xbox Live silver membership that will enable one to send and receive voice and text messages as well as download free game demos and premium content such as vintage arcade games. The silver account can be upgraded to the gold package paying $69.99 a year, so that one can play with one's friends around the globe.

With the launch of this upgraded version, the software giant intends to wrest control of the $10 billion video game market from Sony, whose PlayStation 1 and 2 dominate the market now.