Microsoft has endured a fairly rough entrance into the gaming world. Computers are the name of the game when it comes to Bill Gates’ company, so it was really no surprise that the original Xbox had quite a bit of problems overcoming the similarities to regular computer game play. The Xbox seemed rather rigid at times, and though it was a technological powerhouse, many claimed that the system had varying videogame inconsistencies, and game system recalls, which tested the overall ability of Microsoft’s videogame producing team. Microsoft has weathered many storms since the Xbox’s release, and has now introduced the Xbox 360 to the world of videogames. The Xbox 360 is a newer, heavily revised edition of the original Xbox, and has been providing Sony with some stiff competition, because like Nintendo, their product costs a lot less than the new Playstation 3. There is no questioning that Microsoft has the talent to think up a great videogame console, but there were questions of execution and game play when they first took on the role as a console producer. Those days are well in the past with the Xbox 360, which boasts better graphics, higher memory, internet capabilities, and many other options that the original Xbox could not have handled.

The Xbox 360 is a pretty direct descendant of the original Microsoft console, but many gamers wouldn’t know it, especially after all of the redesigns and problems that plagued the original console. The Xbox 360 has a very fast computing unit, which gives consumers the ultimate in videogame experiences, though it is important to note that the graphics can get a bit rough sometimes, though this mostly occurs when playing internet multiplayer, which tends to lean hard on the powerhouse of memory that the Xbox 360 possesses. The controllers are wireless, which makes well for the Xbox 360’s sense of competition against the other consoles, which also have wireless controllers. Nothing has changed much on the actual controller itself, and Microsoft has taken the same route as Sony, only modifying the controller, not actually changing anything substantial. The Xbox 360 is the perfect upgrade for original Xbox players, mainly because it can play all of the old Xbox games, most of which are still perfectly viable, even five years after the original consoles release.

One of the main characteristics that sets the Xbox 360 apart from other consoles, as well it should since it is made by Microsoft, is the ability of the system to take on many of the day-to-day roles that are supplied by computers. Not only does the Xbox 360 have the ability to play DVD’s, which is a very big plus, but the system can also play Cd’s, which makes for a great music experience for those who have their systems hooked up to surround sound. Another great thing about the Xbox 360 is the ability of the system to take on the growing role of digital picture editor. This compatibility goes after a completely different dynamic of videogame players, who may care less about the actual video game experience, and more about the multifunctional aspects of the systems they purchase. Not only can the Xbox 360 edit pictures, but it can also play MP3’s, which is very big now that we are in the age of downloaded music, a facet of the entertainment industry that continues to grow with no foreseeable end. The Xbox 360 can also link up to a computer that has Windows, which will then allow for picture editing via that line of communication as well. Microsoft is set on providing a good gaming experience, but also wants to provide the perfect multi-dimensional system that supplies the user with many different avenues of use.

Data is another big selling point for the Xbox 360. The unit is able to have a lot of data stored on its hard drive though the amount of space does vary with the kind of unit purchased by the consumer. The Xbox 360 Elite does have the highest amount of available space to the consumer, but it will cost the consumer a little more to purchase. Like anything that has a more premium level of merchandise, the cost is greater, but usually the standard Xbox 360 is more than enough to meet the needs of most avid gamers, especially if they are looking for a console that has many uses.

One great thing about the Xbox 360 is the way that Microsoft has brokered certain games exclusively for the Xbox systems. These games have become some of the biggest hits for the Xbox brand, especially the 360, because they are only able to be played on the Microsoft consoles. Such games are usually in the action vein, for which Microsoft does have a unique controlling system that adapts well to the specific style of action gameplay.

One of the greatest things about the Xbox 360, along with other Microsoft products, is the endless capability for compatible accessories, which is something that these consoles never seem to run short on. Microsoft has a never-ending amount of accessories that can be purchased for the Xbox systems, which enhance game play, but also tend to assist in the other facets of entertainment that the Xbox offers. These accessories are not inherently important for game play, but are very necessary for those wishing to capitalize on all of the other features the Xbox 360 has to offer.

The Xbox 360 is one of the more advanced technological game consoles in the videogame community. It rivals Sony with great computing technology, and the ability to consistently build upon mistakes that were made with the initial Xbox system. It is very important to note that the Xbox continues to rise where Sony has not made any significant strides recently. The gaming world is starting to see the trend that Nintendo and Microsoft will continue to be the gaming giants of the future, while Sony’s days as the gaming god may well be numbered. One reason for the brightness of Microsoft’s gaming future is the Xbox 360, which is doing very well against its competitors, and has a great deal of staying power, especially when all of Microsoft’s resources in the computer world are considered.