Before discussing Xbox 360 we must understand what a gaming console is. A gaming console is really nothing but a specialized computer that is made for dedicated gaming purposes. Which means a gaming console is a dedicated gaming device that is used for creating near to real gaming experience. Monitors or television are used as graphic output devices.

The most popular gaming console is Sony Playstation. The incredible popularity of Playstation 2 prompted Microsoft to launch its own gaming console, the Xbox.

The Xbox was Microsoft’s first entry in gaming console market and it was a reasonably good success. More than 20 million Xbox consoles were sold worldwide. But despite its unique features such as online components, and support to large number of video game titles, this system was outsold by Sony Playstation 2. Due to the speed at which gaming industry technology was progressing and Sony’s huge share of the market, Microsoft developed its next generation of gaming console technology, the Xbox 360.

Xbox 360

The original Xbox was a success but it never came close to the popularity of the Sony PS2. But it did concern Sony enough that they slashed the price on the PS2 to ensure they maintained the lion’s share of the market. Microsoft’s intentions were clear. They wanted to introduce a full-dedicated gaming device and not another PC for gaming purposes. For creating complete dedication to an anti-PC concept, the PC keyboard and mouse were banned in the Xbox system. However USB ports are still in used for connectivity purpose.

Microsoft completely redesigned its Xbox system including name, look, hardware and features for the Xbox 360. All were changed and are much more powerful than in the original Xbox console. Xbox 360 is more than just a gaming console. It can play, rip and download all types of high definition media including gaming contents, movies etc.

Xbox 360 package and pricing

Xbox 360 comes in two packages, and both of them include many gaming devices and accessories. Some of these are:

1. The main gaming console which is Xbox 360 Console.
2. Storage devise preferably removable hard drive of around 20 GB
3. Controller which is wireless
4. Ethernet cable
5. AV cable
6. Power supply
7. Head set

The complete system cost depends upon the additional devices you want to optimize the gaming experience. At the time of launch, Microsoft’s supply could not meet the demand, and Xbox 360 consoles were selling for up to $2000 through classified ads and auction sites. Now pricing is anywhere between $300 and $500.

Xbox console specifications

Microsoft released the Xbox 360 in two packages. One is Xbox 360 premium package and the other is Xbox 360 core system. The premium package includes hard drive, wireless controller, Ethernet cable, and AV cables. A DVD remote was also included at one time, but is no longer included in the premium package. The core system is plug n play featured and includes a wireless controller and AV cables in addition to the console.