Xbox 360 is the upgraded or next in line Xbox video game console of Microsoft, referred to during development as "Project Xenon". Although the console was anticipated to be released in November 2005 in the U.S. and in Europe a few weeks later, in time for the holidays everywhere, shipments were delayed with product not arriving as hoped. Many gaming recipients were not able to pick up their new consoles until long after Christmas.

In major competition with PlayStation 3 and the Nintendo Revolution, Xbox 360 features include:

Backwards Compatibility – Some of the older Xbox games are compatible with the new 360 console.

Live System Compatibility - You can play both a live version of some games by updating the game console with a system that links you up via the Internet with players worldwide. You need to have a broadband internet connection and register for a silver or gold membership account (starting around $50 per year) .

Downloads – You can is log into your Xbox.com with a dial-up connection, download a game, and burn it on to a CD or DVD and take a copy of the game over to your friend’s house. Check with the place of purchase for parts needed to hook up and download.

Xbox Live Marketplace – This is where you log in and download game demos, trailers and upgrades for previously published games already on the market. Although some items are free here, but you have to pay for others, premium content.

Silver Membership – This is free and gives you access to the Live Marketplace as well as lets you communicate with your friends using voice chat. But you cannot play games online.

Gold Membership – This costs about $50 per year and allows you all the silver membership does plus you get to play games online. More good news is that you can save your achievements and statistics online and check them whenever you want.

Ordering Direct – You can also order games directly from the Xbox.com 360. Again, you need to find out which parts are needed and compatible with your Xbox from the place of purchase.

Digital Sound – You can play music using the hard drive and via streaming from your MP3 plugged into the USB 2.0 ports.

Personalization – The console has interchangeable faces with different color schemes. Suit yourself!

So grab an Xbox 360 and give it a trial run. You’ll be amazed at these features, and even more, once you plug in and get moving!