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Title: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: MrHat on August 17, 2005, 06:40:43 AM Quote: LA Times via Pro-G Gaming (http://www.pro-g.co.uk/news/nid/1300/)
Quote LA Times reveals pricing and package details for the Xbox 360. According to news in the LA Times, Microsoft will release two Xbox 360 packages when the console is launched later this year. The basic package will retail for $299 and will not include a hard disk, nor will it include a wireless controller, instead shipping with a wired pad. The second package will retail for $399 and will include a 20 Gb hard disk, wireless controller, wireless headset, Ethernet cable and remote control. No release date has been revealed, but a mid to late November date is expected. We'll bring you news on officially confirmed prices, as well as any news on a European price and date as we hear more. Now, I'm a little pissed off. If they were goint o make it $100 more they should've included a 60Gb HDD instead of the 20Gb one, and a wireless internet adapator instead of an ethernet cord. Note that there are also rumors about multiple models being released over the next few years with HD-DVD being thrown around too. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 17, 2005, 08:33:25 AM Quote from: SPONG UPDATE: Microsoft has confirmed the pricing as reported this morning. (http://spong.com/detail/news.asp?prid=9049) The Core Xbox system will at retail $299.99 in the United States, 299.99 Euros in Europe and £209 in the UK, and will ship with a wired controller, a faceplate, standard AV cable and an Xbox Live Silver membership. Silver membership lets users create a user id, download content, browse the Xbox 360 marketplace and enables chat functions. Silver membership needs a live upgrade to Gold status to play online. The deluxe system will cost $399.99 in the United States, 399.99 Euros across mainland Europe and £279.99 in the UK. Included in the box will be a wireless controller, a 20GB removable hard disc, a faceplate, Live headset, component HD AV cables, an Ethernet cable, Xbox Live Silver membership and an Xbox 360 media remote. I am a tad upset that the hard drive is only 20GB, but then they are going to be offering "upgrade" drives next year. Can't we just put out one system and be done with it? This multiple model shit is annoying to say the least. [EDIT] Quote from: CNN Money's Game Over Price of Xbox 360? It depends. (http://money.cnn.com/2005/08/17/commentary/game_over/column_gaming/index.htm) Microsoft to offer two versions of its new console this holiday August 17, 2005: 9:33 AM EDT Game Over is a weekly column by Chris Morris NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - It could be a confusing holiday season for some holiday shoppers. Microsoft Wednesday announced two pricing plans for its next generation video game console. When the Xbox 360 goes on sale this holiday season, buyers will be able to purchase a no-frills version for $299.99 or a bells-and-whistles version for $399.99. The less-expensive core system will feature only the Xbox 360 console with a controller, which has to be plugged into the system to play games. The $400 option will come with a 20 GB hard drive, a wireless controller, a headset (used for talking with other players online) that stylistically matches the Xbox 360 and, for a limited time, a remote control allowing users to more easily access the machine's multimedia functions. The pricing, announced today at the German Games Conference in Leipzig, Germany, takes Microsoft (Research) into relatively uncharted territory. Typically, initial console prices have not exceeded $299.99 (both the original Xbox and Sony's (Research) PlayStation 2 were sold at that price). "If you look at the processing power that's available in the Xbox 360, you'll see it is more powerful than what you can get at the PC level today for a reasonable price," said Mitch Koch, vice president of retail sales for Microsoft's games division. While both versions of the Xbox 360 will be available simultaneously, Microsoft plans to have more of the $400 version on shelves, which could confound some of Santa's helpers as Christmas draws near. The company would not say how many of each version it would have available. Nor did it further clarify its worldwide launch date for the system beyond "Holiday 2005". (Most observers expect it to be released in November.) Microsoft also announced the price points for over a dozen Xbox 360 accessories, including stand-alone wireless controllers ($50), detachable 20 GB hard drives ($100), headsets ($20) and Xbox 360 faceplates ($20), which allow users to customize their machine. Those hoping to take advantage of the Xbox 360's oft-touted high definition graphics will either need to purchase the $400 bundle or buy separate component cables (which will sell for $40) along with the basic system. The lower-end package will ship with standard AV cables. Gamers who buy the $400 version of the system will also find their hard drives pre-loaded with music, gaming videos and more, though Microsoft declined to specifically say what it planned to include on the hard drive. The hard drive might seem like an expensive luxury to some shoppers, particularly those buying for someone else this holiday season, but for current Xbox gamers, it's a critical piece of equipment. Without a hard drive, the Xbox 360 will not be able to play any games from the current Xbox, including the phenomenally successful "Halo 2". The prices unveiled Wednesday apply to both North American and European consumers (the numbers are the same in Europe, though they're in Euros, not dollars). Japanese pricing was not announced. Koch said those prices would be unveiled at the Tokyo Game Show in Japan this September. Hardware's not all that's going to cost more as the next generation of video games begins. Most major publishers have quietly acknowledged that major games will cost $59.99, a $10 jump over current prices. Gee, I can get faceplates for $20. I'm having an Xgasm. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: stray on August 17, 2005, 08:53:48 AM It's already a toss up between Nintendo and Sony for me anyhow...The only reason I got an X-Box before was because it came out later than the PS2, and in turn, had better hardware/features. Now that they're being released around the same time, there's very few (if any) disadvantages that Sony will have against the 360. That Microsoft keeps on making dumb decisions (like the webcam, for example) seals the deal.....That and it's ugly.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Big Gulp on August 17, 2005, 09:10:57 AM That Microsoft keeps on making dumb decisions (like the webcam, for example) seals the deal.....That and it's ugly. This really is a dumb decision. Can you say "CD-Rom for the Genesis" dumb? It balkanizes the market because you'll have devs making games that only support the HD version and leaves a bad taste in the consumers mouth. Likewise, I can't imagine that they'll allow you to run unsupported code (Emulators, etc) on this without hacking the hardware, so really what other purpose does a HD serve? Hell, the XBox right now, when chipped, is the ultimate multimedia console. It's too bad that you have to modify to make it that, otherwise they'd probably have better market penetration. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Merusk on August 17, 2005, 09:11:40 AM My god yes it's ugly. Even a new faceplate won't help that problem. And all this nonsense with the different peripherals and the HD-DVD being added at a later date, and maybe this, and oooh well it might do that. Screw it, they're obviously just rushing to beat Sony to market. I'll pull my usual 'wait 18 months, then buy.' with whatever console I go after. That way I've got a slew of games to choose from and I've got the bonus of not being raped for $300-400.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: HaemishM on August 17, 2005, 09:16:48 AM Again, fuck the webcam, give me a fucking hard drive. $100 for a 20GB HD, a wireless controller and Ethernet cable? Yep, it'll be a while before I buy one of these with my own money. One of the reasons I picked the X-Box over a PS2 was the built-in hard drive. I DO NOT FUCKING NEED A GODDAM WEBCAM, YOU ASSSPELUNKERS.
Fucking cockmonkeys. The 3D0 debuted for $400. That should be a fucking lesson. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Nija on August 17, 2005, 09:50:57 AM Well, they're gonna charge probably $50 to buy wireless controllers.
$30 for the HDTV AV pack. $20 or so for the DVD remote. $? for the now addon HDD (dumbest move yet) There's your $100 extra, which will ammount to $150+ extra for those who laugh at the $400 model then realize they need that shit two months down the line. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: MrHat on August 17, 2005, 09:53:47 AM Again, fuck the webcam, give me a fucking hard drive. $100 for a 20GB HD, a wireless controller and Ethernet cable? Yep, it'll be a while before I buy one of these with my own money. One of the reasons I picked the X-Box over a PS2 was the built-in hard drive. I DO NOT FUCKING NEED A GODDAM WEBCAM, YOU ASSSPELUNKERS. Fucking cockmonkeys. The 3D0 debuted for $400. That should be a fucking lesson. Looks like the 400 version also includes component cables (which should only cost 20 bucks, but since MS fucked 3rd party producers, will be $40). Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Rasix on August 17, 2005, 10:03:14 AM Well, they're gonna charge probably $50 to buy wireless controllers. $30 for the HDTV AV pack. $20 or so for the DVD remote. $? for the now addon HDD (dumbest move yet) There's your $100 extra, which will ammount to $150+ extra for those who laugh at the $400 model then realize they need that shit two months down the line. Yep, looks like the $400 dollar package is a necessity especially if that $100 bucks for a 20gig HD addon is accurate. I'll likely have a HD TV by the time I buy one of these and the wireless controller would be nice. The headphones and remote I really don't give too much of a shit about. I don't play XBL a lot and I don't use my xbox for a dvd player. The hard-drive and AV cables thing is big, without that the $299 package is purely for suckers. Gah, still $400 bucks is kind of painful. I'm planning a lot of major purchases around the holiday season so the 360 may just have to wait for a while. Anyone know how much they're planning to charge for the XBox live gold package? Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: eldaec on August 17, 2005, 10:06:36 AM Quote from: MS guy If you look at the processing power that's available in the Xbox 360, you'll see it is more powerful than what you can get at the PC level today for a reasonable price No. No it isn't. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: eldaec on August 17, 2005, 10:09:16 AM This really is a dumb decision. Can you say "CD-Rom for the Genesis" dumb? It balkanizes the market because you'll have devs making games that only support the HD version and leaves a bad taste in the consumers mouth. Likewise, I can't imagine that they'll allow you to run unsupported code (Emulators, etc) on this without hacking the hardware, so really what other purpose does a HD serve? I don't see it balkanising anything. Much more likely XBox titles will only use the HD for game saves, which is why you only need 20Gb. You thought Theif III and DX2 load zones were small? You aint seen nothing yet. This decision is about focusing on the components where volume discounts can be achieved; generic components like HDs and memory are being skimped on, and they are piling in on the chipset instead. I'm sure the Xbox2 will still sell by the wheel-barrow load of course, so who's to say they're wrong. Ho hum. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: eldaec on August 17, 2005, 10:11:08 AM I DO NOT FUCKING NEED A GODDAM WEBCAM, YOU ASSSPELUNKERS. What he said. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Merusk on August 17, 2005, 10:13:51 AM Quote from: MS guy If you look at the processing power that's available in the Xbox 360, you'll see it is more powerful than what you can get at the PC level today for a reasonable price No. No it isn't. Your idea of 'reasonable price' is what, though? I'll tell you that Joe Consumer thinks spending more than $500-700 for a computer is stupid. edit: Oh, and Using New Egg and Pricewatch is verboten. Joe Consumer doesn't know about them or can't assemble the parts. I'm talking Dell, HP, Gateway or CompUSA pricing. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Rodent on August 17, 2005, 10:22:30 AM Any word on modability yet? If it's as easy as the Xbox I'll pick up the basic version and put in an old 120gb drive in there.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 17, 2005, 10:23:24 AM Well, they're gonna charge probably $50 to buy wireless controllers. $30 for the HDTV AV pack. $20 or so for the DVD remote. $? for the now addon HDD (dumbest move yet) There's your $100 extra, which will ammount to $150+ extra for those who laugh at the $400 model then realize they need that shit two months down the line. RTFA. Controllers are $50, HD AV pack is $40, HDD is $100. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Miasma on August 17, 2005, 10:58:54 AM $100 just for a 20 Gb hard drive? Wow, that would obviously make the $400 the only viable purchase and as such means I might not buy it at all. I will at least wait to see if they try and damage Sony but cutting the price when they launch (I'm sure they will). So now I will just wait for the PS3 and decide whether or not to buy an xbox then.
Are these drives some sort of special format or are they just standard desktop/laptop drives? And since when can CNN/Money manage to put out a very good article about something like this, the day it gets leaked no less? Finally it really is just nauseatingly ugly, a face plate at a bare minimum is essential. I would be willing to purchase a differently shaped box that the whole 360 would slide into, not just a faceplate. That huge power button gives me creepy flashbacks to HAL-9000 from Space Odyssey, I don't like thinking my console is going to try and kill me, and with all that wireless energy it might just have the power to do so. *Adjusts tinfoil hat* Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Nija on August 17, 2005, 11:02:56 AM RTFA. Controllers are $50, HD AV pack is $40, HDD is $100. Close enough for the girls I hang out with, fag. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: HaemishM on August 17, 2005, 12:13:42 PM I will say again, in this day and age, there is no reason whatsoever to have to fuck with memory cards. A hard drive is a requirement for a next-gen console, IMO. $100? That shit is just fucking stupid, especially for only a 20GB. I can guarantee that it isn't some proprietary sort of hardware, other than the shiney X's they'll put on it.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Merusk on August 17, 2005, 12:32:42 PM I will say again, in this day and age, there is no reason whatsoever to have to fuck with memory cards. A hard drive is a requirement for a next-gen console, IMO. $100? That shit is just fucking stupid, especially for only a 20GB. I can guarantee that it isn't some proprietary sort of hardware, other than the shiney X's they'll put on it. I agree with the stipulation that you still need memory card slots. I know plenty of people with consoles who may want to trade savegames/ unlocks with me but who have no broadband access or lack the technical know-how to hook their console into their TV without assistance, much less e-mail a savegame to my X-box (if that were even an option) Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Margalis on August 17, 2005, 12:36:02 PM It's pathetic. The whole point of consoles is standard hardware and configuration. Again, there has never been an optional system add-on worth jack.
If you look at XBox vs. PS2, XBox is more powerful, has a hard drive, etc. Now compare 360 and PS3. Same power, XBox lacks a hard drive. Wow, I'm impressed. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: stray on August 17, 2005, 01:13:32 PM Microsoft is going to fall on their asses here -- and that's about all I have left to say on the subject. They got lucky the first time.....But not lucky enough to think that they can afford to be douchebags just yet.
Seriously. Now that the playing field is even again, they're not going to be nearly as competitive as they were the first time around. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Stormwaltz on August 17, 2005, 01:46:23 PM Your idea of 'reasonable price' is what, though? I'll tell you that Joe Consumer thinks spending more than $500-700 for a computer is stupid. Joe Consumer also has about a 50% chance of owning an HDTV, so tack on another $650-900 for that. Edit: I have a 27" Wega from 1999, so I'm included in that group. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: AOFanboi on August 17, 2005, 02:09:58 PM Joe Consumer also has about a 50% chance of owning an HDTV, so tack on another $650-900 for that. But in the base pack you only get a composite cable, doesn't that mean good ole 480i NTSC?Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Fabricated on August 17, 2005, 03:46:50 PM Methinks there are going to be a lot of confused parents and fratboys wondering which version plays the new Madden "Give us your fucking money you retard" edition better.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Stormwaltz on August 17, 2005, 04:07:35 PM But in the base pack you only get a composite cable, doesn't that mean good ole 480i NTSC? That's what I've read, yes. Which leads to more questions, such as "will all 360 games have to come prepared to look good in two different resolutions?" If so, then MS has ported the PC's multiple resolution issues to the console arena. If not... well, I have to assume there is no alternative. HD is one of the back-of-box features. You can't design for NTSC only. You also can't design for HDTV only, or you're alienating half your audience. But maybe they don't mind that. My head hurts in the same way that picking a motherboard made it hurt. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 17, 2005, 04:27:29 PM Amazon has the PS3 for $299.99. (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0009VXAM0/ref=ord_cart_shr/102-0303237-5252127?_encoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance)
Quote from: Amazon Sony PlayStation3 Price: $299.99 This item is currently not available. Features: * Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to gaming services and the Internet * Sony PlayStation 3 is slated for release in Spring 2006 * Games will use Blu-Ray discs as media format * Features a powerful Cell processor and a dynamic RSX graphics chip * Completely backward compatible, all the way to the original Sony PlayStation Amazon.com Sales Rank: None Shipping: Shipping rates and policies ASIN: B0009VXAM0 Date first available at Amazon: July 12, 2005 Average Customer Review: 4 out of 5 stars Based on 16 reviews. Write a review. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Hoax on August 17, 2005, 04:41:25 PM I hope xbox gets destroyed this round, fuck microsoft and fuck this whole 3 consoles thing anyways. It really pissed me off that to get Zelda I needed a GC and to get Mech goodness I needed a Xbox and all the rpgs were on PS2. So I bought none and just hated consoles a little bit extra... Hell I left my ps1 in college a move I've since come to regret as I have a hankering for some Chrono Crusade or perhaps FFIX or one of the other ones (read non 7 or 3) I never finished.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Trippy on August 17, 2005, 06:11:02 PM It's pathetic. The whole point of consoles is standard hardware and configuration. Again, there has never been an optional system add-on worth jack. If the rumors hold true you'll need the HD if you want to play Xbox games on the Xbox 360. I dunno what percentage of people actually do that sort of thing though -- I never played any of my PS games on my PS2.Quote If you look at XBox vs. PS2, XBox is more powerful, has a hard drive, etc. Now compare 360 and PS3. Same power, XBox lacks a hard drive. Wow, I'm impressed. The PS3 doesn't come standard with a hard drive either.Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Margalis on August 17, 2005, 07:05:38 PM Quote If you look at XBox vs. PS2, XBox is more powerful, has a hard drive, etc. Now compare 360 and PS3. Same power, XBox lacks a hard drive. Wow, I'm impressed. The PS3 doesn't come standard with a hard drive either.Yeah, I know, but my point was in this gen the hard drive was an advantage the XBox had over the 360. Now that advantage is erased. Hoenstly the XBox 360 is looking like a clusterfuck. When is it supposed to be out, November? I can't imagine many games will be ready then. As far as backwards compatibility is concerned, it just totally depends on the person. I like playing plenty of old games, so for me backwards compat is a big plus. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Jain Zar on August 17, 2005, 07:36:12 PM 300 is too much for a new system, and the 400 dollar one (the one people would really want) is a fuggin ripoff. To play what? A couple half baked games and iffy backwards compatibility? PLEASE.
More ammo for me getting a Revolution or no new game system at all for at least the first year or two. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: schild on August 17, 2005, 07:38:51 PM PS3 might get pushed to 07. 360 comes out in November at $399. Next christmas they drop the ghetto version and release a limited edition green or green/white one for christmas at $299 with all the bonus shit...before the PS3. They soundly chomp all over the market.
Alternate solution: Drop the price to $299 if the PS3 is actually released in summer 06. Then they at LEAST get more market share then they have now. The choice here...be an early adopter or not. I am, that's how I play games. I don't take elaborate vacations that often. I don't drop big money on much else. Though, that's probably because I spend money on games. It's a nasty habit. Also, they might as well call the $299 one the HaloMaddenBox. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Strazos on August 18, 2005, 01:11:51 AM Thanks Microsoft, you've now allowed me to forsee that I will spend my money in Q4 not on a new system, but in Ceaser's casino, in AC.
No HDD, standard? No thanks. That's like charging extra for power windows and locks in a new car. Fuck you. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: eldaec on August 18, 2005, 02:14:41 AM But in the base pack you only get a composite cable, doesn't that mean good ole 480i NTSC? That's what I've read, yes. Which leads to more questions, such as "will all 360 games have to come prepared to look good in two different resolutions?" If so, then MS has ported the PC's multiple resolution issues to the console arena. If not... well, I have to assume there is no alternative. HD is one of the back-of-box features. You can't design for NTSC only. You also can't design for HDTV only, or you're alienating half your audience. But maybe they don't mind that. My head hurts in the same way that picking a motherboard made it hurt. If it's an Xbox game then they'll have to fix the resolution issue before releasing the inevitable PC version anyway - so I doubt that this is a big deal. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Sky on August 18, 2005, 07:05:26 AM Most xbox games are already 480i and 480p, which are two different resolutions. Quite a number also support 720p and a couple do 1080i. It's nothing new for Xbox developers, really. My guess is they will drop 1080i and 480p support, which is fine by me as I have a 720p set.
I still don't see much reason to buy either console rather than just enjoy my pc. I was reading an article about that physics add-on card (physiX or something) that made allusions to the physics processing power of both the consoles, so it could get interesting once devs get used to writing for six processing cores... Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: schild on August 18, 2005, 08:09:08 AM They probably won't drop any resolution, if they did it would be 720p, it's the most nonstandard and the highest of the resolutions (in a backasswards way). 720p is also the most nonstandard. Cheapo HDTVs do 1080i and 480p and if Joe MaddenHalo has an HDTV, it's a cheapo one. Dropping 480p would make no sense though, so I disagree with what you've said.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Sky on August 18, 2005, 08:12:11 AM They've already committed to every title being 720p for the Xbox 360.
I agree with the rest of what you said, though. There is the walmart factor to be considered. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Nija on August 18, 2005, 09:42:37 AM Most xbox games are already 480i and 480p, which are two different resolutions. PICKING NITS but 480i and 480p are the same resolution. Difference is that both even and odd lines are drawn each frame with 480p, and it draws evens one frame then odds the next frame with 480i. This always pissed me off with ps2 games that were ported to xbox and did not support 480p. Shit like Dy-nasty Warriors displayed in wonderful 480i, when there is no goddamn reason not to support 480p. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 18, 2005, 10:02:46 AM Bethesda has said that Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion will not require a HDD for the Xbox 360. I guess that means the PC version will be based on console limitations. Joy.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Strazos on August 18, 2005, 11:11:00 AM So wait, will these new consoles be requiring a HD TV set?
Even if I want a next-gen console, I'm sure as hell not buying a new TV on top of that purchase. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 18, 2005, 11:18:51 AM Interesting comments from developers over at Next Generation in regards to the Xbox 360 having two different "packages" available. (http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=796&Itemid=2)
I found this one especially accurate and disturbing: Quote Scott Miller CEO 3D Realms "One word: Blunder. Developers will almost always cater to the lowest spec'ed system when it comes to consoles, so as to maximize the customer base. So, my guess is that few games will truly make significant use of the hard drive, given that it's an option that cannot be counted on." Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Miasma on August 18, 2005, 11:24:12 AM Interesting comments from developers over at Next Generation in regards to the Xbox 360 having two different "packages" available. (http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=796&Itemid=2) I found this one especially accurate and disturbing: Quote Scott Miller CEO 3D Realms "One word: Blunder. Developers will almost always cater to the lowest spec'ed system when it comes to consoles, so as to maximize the customer base. So, my guess is that few games will truly make significant use of the hard drive, given that it's an option that cannot be counted on." I like this one too, it seems like most of them didn't have the guts to badmouth microsoft. Quote CS Weaver Founder Bethesda Softworks Also Visiting Scholar at M.I.T "This is one of those silly market concepts dreamed up by a middle-aged, non-gamer who once worked at Proctor and Gamble. To him or her I say, 'Stick to Tide and Pringles.' Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Jain Zar on August 18, 2005, 01:21:19 PM Too many of those devs seem obsessed with wireless controllers, one of the most useless "innovations" in gaming.
Id rather have no batteries to worry about thanks. I am nearsighted and don't play games more than 5 feet away from the console anyhow. Wireless controller setups don't matter until they manage to make them battery free IMHO. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: MrHat on August 18, 2005, 01:44:28 PM Too many of those devs seem obsessed with wireless controllers, one of the most useless "innovations" in gaming. Id rather have no batteries to worry about thanks. I am nearsighted and don't play games more than 5 feet away from the console anyhow. Wireless controller setups don't matter until they manage to make them battery free IMHO. That, and let me turn on the console using my wireless controller. If you're going to tout that you don't have to be near the console, why make me go up there and push a button then go back and start playing. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 18, 2005, 01:45:13 PM Too many of those devs seem obsessed with wireless controllers, one of the most useless "innovations" in gaming. Id rather have no batteries to worry about thanks. I am nearsighted and don't play games more than 5 feet away from the console anyhow. Wireless controller setups don't matter until they manage to make them battery free IMHO. That, and let me turn on the console using my wireless controller. If you're going to tout that you don't have to be near the console, why make me go up there and push a button then go back and start playing. And then have a tray in the console that'll hold 3-5 games so I don't have to get off my ass to change the game. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: MrHat on August 18, 2005, 02:01:59 PM Too many of those devs seem obsessed with wireless controllers, one of the most useless "innovations" in gaming. Id rather have no batteries to worry about thanks. I am nearsighted and don't play games more than 5 feet away from the console anyhow. Wireless controller setups don't matter until they manage to make them battery free IMHO. That, and let me turn on the console using my wireless controller. If you're going to tout that you don't have to be near the console, why make me go up there and push a button then go back and start playing. And then have a tray in the console that'll hold 3-5 games so I don't have to get off my ass to change the game. I'd take that as an add on accessory. But seriously, there's no reason to not have a remote-on button when it's already an electronic switch and a wireless controller. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Yegolev on August 18, 2005, 09:41:21 PM I agree with the stipulation that you still need memory card slots. I know plenty of people with consoles who may want to trade savegames/ unlocks with me but who have no broadband access or lack the technical know-how to hook their console into their TV without assistance, much less e-mail a savegame to my X-box (if that were even an option) The fact that some savegame files simply would not allow copying to a memory card (KOTOR I think) was angrifying. It wasn't a size issue, either, since I was using a 512MB USB memory stick instead of the standard card. I am in favor of some sort of transmission, even if it isn't via memory card. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: schild on August 18, 2005, 09:47:54 PM Quote Mark Rein VP Epic Games "I think it's a very good strategy given the potential competitive landscape. They get a lower priced version for people who are more cost-conscious and an everything-you-need-for-online-gaming version for those who want the full experience. Developers were always told not to expect a hard drive on every machine so nobody has developed with the assumption it will be there. "Developers already got our big Xbox 360 gift - we got 512MB of RAM. That was a huge win for developers and customers alike and there was no way we were going to get that and a hard drive on every machine. The RAM is more important and will make a bigger difference than the hard drive would have. There will be lots of great reasons why you'd want to buy the hard drive and it will be available as an upgrade so nobody is selling themselves short if they can't afford the all-options version because they can buy those options a-la-carte (for more money mind you) if needed. I hate to be rain on the hate parade, but if Epic is happy (whom I consider by far to make some of the most stable and fun games on the market) is happy, I'm happy. Also, there's a lot of shit that comes with that $399 console. But hey, that's just me. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Margalis on August 18, 2005, 10:14:43 PM All he said was that the hard drive will be basically useless to most people.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: schild on August 18, 2005, 10:46:36 PM All he said was that the hard drive will be basically useless to most people. No, he said that developers should shut their mouths and count themselves lucky that they have half a gig of ram to work with. And I agree. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Sky on August 19, 2005, 06:58:15 AM Quote Too many of those devs seem obsessed with wireless controllers, one of the most useless "innovations" in gaming. I disagree with what you said.Id rather have no batteries to worry about thanks. I am nearsighted and don't play games more than 5 feet away from the console anyhow. Wireless controller setups don't matter until they manage to make them battery free IMHO. "Worry" about batteries? I have to change the batteries in my controller maybe once every couple months. They are rechargeables, so I plop in some charged units and drop the dead ones in the charger for 15 minutes. I use a wireless mouse, that gets about two weeks per charge. Both use standard AA. I'll never use a wired controller again. But hey, you're nearsighted, let's stop developing products for people who actually wear their glasses. Quote No, he said that developers should shut their mouths and count themselves lucky that they have half a gig of ram to work with. And I agree I still think it was a bit light on RAM. It's still shared RAM, and it's got to serve those 6 cpu cores. I just want some high resolution friggin' textures. Going from GTA:SA to BF2 is shocking, and then there's the whole Thief:DS debacle where some homebrew kit adds better resolution textures than the devs bothered to add. Console whoremongers.Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: AOFanboi on August 19, 2005, 09:24:22 AM And then have a tray in the console that'll hold 3-5 games so I don't have to get off my ass to change the game. Or have them be downloaded off the net instead. So which will be first, the Phantom or the Revolution?Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Nija on August 19, 2005, 09:44:37 AM The x360 controllers charge via USB anyhow, so the whole "batteries" argument is over.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: HaemishM on August 19, 2005, 09:49:57 AM Quote David Perry President Shiny Entertainment The PC model is the example, giving gamers the experience they are happy to pay for. Xbox 360 actually beats the PC as there's a common high-quality 3D baseline, so you can only go upwards. I hope Microsoft enjoys the experience from this strategy and truly opens up the model for Xbox 720. Meaning if I choose to add extra features or enhance features, I can do that. Yes, because the PC model has been SO GODDAMN PROFITABLE to PC game developers. You fucking twat. The PC model is KILLING developers, what with all the money needed for QA and different dev platforms. The whole fucking point of a console is to have standardized fucking hardware, so that the teeming masses of Joe SixPack doesn't ever have to think about how to make his game work, he just plugs it in and goes. Joe Sixpack and his lazy stupidity is what makes consoles more profitable. Options is good. But I think after the X-Box, Microsoft should have realized that the HDD shouldn't be an optional package, especially when their competitors don't have a HDD. Following the PC model for hardware on a console is beyond braind dead stupid, especially when no one can really show me how the 360 is a significant upgrade from the X-Box. EDIT: And lest I forget, I want to give all the current gen console manufacturers a gigantic FUCK YOU, YOU COCKBAGS for ending the practice of packing a free game in the with the system. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Merusk on August 19, 2005, 09:55:19 AM Wow..
He needs to go develop PC games like he seems to want to do, rather than consoles. When he then whines that there's no money in PC games we can send Haemish over to club him to death with his own arms. The thing is, I can see Microsoft pushing down that direction. They'll then start to incorporate other features using their OS as the base. Maybe include an integrated video screen! Yah, they can call it a Kiwi or something similarly fruity. It'll be revolutionary! Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Trippy on August 19, 2005, 08:34:00 PM Xbox 360 Marketing Brochure Leak (http://www.planetxbox360.com/?view=article&article=83)
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Margalis on August 19, 2005, 09:23:59 PM Dave Perry is one of the biggest idiots in the VG industry. Whatever he says, think the exact opposite.
What the PC model proves is that the PC model sucks, and that the console standardized hardware approach is far far superior. Dave Perry is mostly about spouting bullshit and promoting himself. Ask yourself a question: What's the fundamental difference between a PC and a console? Tough one, huh? Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: HaemishM on August 20, 2005, 01:39:00 AM More profit for the developers? :-D
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Strazos on August 20, 2005, 03:13:02 AM Sorry, I don't like wireless....radio interference = fucked up controls. I had a wireless keyboard for awhile, and it would spaz out at times.
And fuck the console model.....I'll always perfer the PC for controls. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 22, 2005, 07:25:25 AM According to a chat with Baldy (http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=10972), you will have to purchase a memory card for $30 if you want to save your games if you buy the cheapo system. Or for $70 you can get the hard drive, wireless, etc.
WTF is the reason for the cheapo system again? Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Trippy on August 22, 2005, 07:32:05 AM According to a chat with Baldy (http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=10972), you will have to purchase a memory card for $30 if you want to save your games if you buy the cheapo system. Or for $70 you can get the hard drive, wireless, etc. Actually according to the leaked marketing brochure it's $39.99 (estimated retail price) for the memory card in the US.Quote WTF is the reason for the cheapo system again? Beats me.Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 22, 2005, 07:35:03 AM Actually according to the leaked marketing brochure it's $39.99 (estimated retail price) for the memory card in the US. Jumping Jesus on a pogo stick. WTF? Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Stormwaltz on August 22, 2005, 09:03:05 AM No, he said that developers should shut their mouths and count themselves lucky that they have half a gig of ram to work with. And I agree. I'm not a programmer, and I'm not speaking for the company, but I'd like to point out that RPGs tend to create large save games due to the many plot states that have to be saved. Also, players tend to build up larger collections of saved games ("Floyd's eyes light up. 'Ooo, are we going to do something dangerous now?'"). Epic's games don't deal with that sort of issue. Of course they're happy that they can keep larger levels in memory. Things might be less clear-cut for the developers of RPGs and other games that create large save files. Again, not speaking for my company or from personal experience, just observing from the sidelines. Disclaim, disclaim. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 22, 2005, 09:04:23 AM Again, not speaking for my company or from personal experience, just observing from the sidelines. Disclaim, disclaim. Not speaking for f13.net or even myself, what you say makes sense. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: eldaec on August 22, 2005, 09:30:28 AM I'm delighted with the choice of more ram over a HD.
Because the PC port *will* have a HD. And 512Mb could well increase time between loading pauses up from 10 seconds to maybe as high as 20. Of course 512Mb still isn't enough - but that's a whole other thing. The decision to include a fucking webcam over a HD, does, of course, seem rather more bizarre. Quote WTF is the reason for the cheapo system again? So that the adverts can have $199 splashed across them in enormous red lettering by the middle of next year. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: HaemishM on August 22, 2005, 09:58:04 AM I thought the cheap system was for Halidiots and Maddenorons?
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 22, 2005, 12:10:06 PM I thought the cheap system was for Halidiots and Maddenorons? Only if they buy the brand new Halo 3 and Madden 360 since you NEED THE HD FOR BACKWARDS COMPATIBILITY. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: HaemishM on August 22, 2005, 01:09:36 PM I thought it was assumed that all Halidiots and Maddenorons had to have the absolute latest greatest version.
Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Shockeye on August 22, 2005, 01:31:36 PM I thought it was assumed that all Halidiots and Maddenorons had to have the absolute latest greatest version. But Halo 3 won't ship until next year. So if they want their Halo fix they'll need the $400 package with the HD. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Jain Zar on August 22, 2005, 01:37:00 PM I think many people have said the cheapie system is just so Microsoft can say "LOOK GUYZ WE ARE CHEAPER THAN PS3 LOL. (Ps: Find way to post patent something Sony made since its working well against Apple's iPod.)"
Typical bait and switch. Like newspaper circulars listing coupons and rebates as the actual price, even though they know most folks won't use either. Just a way to bait the customer in, hoping clerk fast talk and customer stupidity will provide the barbed hook. Title: Re: XBox to release with 2 Models Post by: Margalis on August 22, 2005, 03:53:06 PM There are a couple reasons for the two models:
1: They can say they cost $300. 2: They can trick people into buying the cheap one, then make more money off them when they have to upgrade. If you are like me and have component cable in on your TV, to get the cheap version you are looking at $300 + $40 for memory card + $20-30 for component cables. That's retarded. For $30 more I can have the hard drive, wireless controls, etc. It would only make sense if each of the peripherals were cheap. It's stupid for the consumer, and for the producer. For the consumer for obvious reasons. For the producer because the HD, which should have been standard, is not, which limits the quality of games for no good reason and eliminates a competitive advantage. The choice between RAM and HD is a red herring, they could have done both and just charged more. Which realistically is what they are doing, since the cheap version is such a ripoff. |