Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 torn down, shows we're all the same on the inside]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/new-xbox-360-2013-tear-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/new-xbox-360-2013-tear-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/13/new-xbox-360-2013-tear-down/#commentsNew Xbox 360 torn down, shows we're all the same on the inside A teardown of the new Xbox 360 announced at Microsoft's E3 press conference by iFixit showed some surprising non-changes to the redesigned system. Namely, the console still uses the storage, cooling fan and processing power from the current version of the system first announced in June 2010.

Among the changes made to the system (referred to as the Xbox 360 E), iFixit noticed that Microsoft updated the RF module and that "the absence of the power button backlight found in the Xbox 360 S is easily noticed." The redesigned console is available now for the same price as the existing models. We got a good look at the system ourselves at E3, albeit from the outside.

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 torn down, shows we're all the same on the inside originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013microsoftredesignteardownxboxxbox-360-exbox-360-sxbox-360-slimThu, 13 Jun 2013 13:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 320GB hard drive to include NFS: Hot Pursuit, Ms. Splosion Man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/xbox-320gb-hard-drive-to-include-nfs-hot-pursuit-ms-splosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/xbox-320gb-hard-drive-to-include-nfs-hot-pursuit-ms-splosion/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/xbox-320gb-hard-drive-to-include-nfs-hot-pursuit-ms-splosion/#comments The Xbox 360 S-compatible 320GB hard drive is getting a new batch of games, forcing out the formerly bundled-in Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars.

As of sometime next month, the additional storage space includes downloadable copies of Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit, Ms. Splosion Man, and Pinball FX 2 with the Sorcerer's Lair DLC. As for the price, that sticks at $129.99.

JoystiqXbox 320GB hard drive to include NFS: Hot Pursuit, Ms. Splosion Man originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>320gbmicrosoftms-splosion-manneed-for-speed-hot-pursuitxboxxbox-360-slimFri, 22 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Captain America Xbox 360 mod inspired by The Avengers assembled, photographed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/captain-america-xbox-360-mod-assembled-inspired-by-the-avengers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/captain-america-xbox-360-mod-assembled-inspired-by-the-avengers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/captain-america-xbox-360-mod-assembled-inspired-by-the-avengers/#comments Captain America Xbox 360 mod stands up for freedomThe Avengers-inspired Captain America Xbox 360 S mod above was created by Zachariah Cruse, a self-professed fan of the Cap. The design itself looks simple, yet elegant. It's also really shiny.

Cruse put in a blue LED for the power button, mounted a shield on the side and adorned the opposite side with the famous A and wings that rest upon the brow of Captain America's mask. Sadly, Cruse doesn't go into much detail in his blog post on how intricate this mod really is - does the shield detach? Is the shield custom made or store-bought? Can we wear the shield as a hat? We have important questions that need answers!

JoystiqCaptain America Xbox 360 mod inspired by The Avengers assembled, photographed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain-americamicrosoftmodmodsthe-avengersxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimzachariah-cruseMon, 10 Dec 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 update incompatible with some models, MS offering replacements [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/new-xbox-360-update-incompatible-with-some-models-ms-offering-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/new-xbox-360-update-incompatible-with-some-models-ms-offering-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/new-xbox-360-update-incompatible-with-some-models-ms-offering-r/#comments Microsoft has confirmed that some Xbox 360 consoles weren't happy with a recent firmware update upcoming, mandatory firmware update. The console manufacturer will replace consoles that have become unable to read retail game discs with a new Xbox 360 S with 250 GB hard drive.

"Following a recent update to our system software, we have become aware of an issue that is preventing a very small number of Xbox 360 owners from playing retail game discs," a Microsoft statement reads. "This issue manifests itself a as a unique 'disc unreadable' or 'disc unsupported' error on the screen and is unrelated to our recent public beta (alteration from original Eurogamer statement). We are also able to detect this issue over Xbox Live and are proactively reaching out to customers that may be impacted to replace their console."

The firmware update implements new anti-piracy measures (along with a 1GB bump in disc storage capacity) that apparently don't play nice with certain DVE drives. Given that the Xbox 360 has had several revisions to its guts over the years, this is the reason why only certain models will be affected.

We've contacted Microsoft to find out what North American consumers should do if their console is incompatible with the update. European consumers have been told to go to Microsoft's general support page.

Update: Altered text above with new information. Microsoft's official statement can be found after the break.

Continue reading New Xbox 360 update incompatible with some models, MS offering replacements [update]

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 update incompatible with some models, MS offering replacements [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 May 2011 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftreplacementsxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimxgd3Wed, 18 May 2011 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox Development Kit is cheaper, way cuter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/new-xbox-development-kit-is-cheaper-way-cuter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/new-xbox-development-kit-is-cheaper-way-cuter/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/new-xbox-development-kit-is-cheaper-way-cuter/#comments Microsoft has begun offering developers great and small a new model of the Xbox 360 development kit, pictured above. The new hardware's got a lot to offer game studios -- it's got an undisclosed boost in RAM, larger hard drive, built-in flash memory and a less bulky frame than its predecessor. Its most appealing bonus? According to the kit's press release announcement, the new hardware will come at a "significantly reduced price from its predecessor."

Wait, no, that's not its most appealing bonus. We're pretty sure the aspect that's gonna lead companies to snatch up as many of these new kits as they can is how darn adorable it is. Look at him! He's so tiny. And he's got an equally adorable, optional Sidecar attachment, which enables debugging and emulation! Oh, just look! It's like he's giving it a piggy-back ride.

JoystiqNew Xbox Development Kit is cheaper, way cuter originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-kitdevelopment-kitmicrosoftsidecarxboxxbox-360xbox-360-slimTue, 05 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Dance Central with 4GB Kinect Xbox purchase on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/free-dance-central-with-4gb-kinect-xbox-purchase-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/free-dance-central-with-4gb-kinect-xbox-purchase-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/free-dance-central-with-4gb-kinect-xbox-purchase-on-amazon/#comments Dance Central is clearly stamped with a "Requires Kinect Sensor" label, but the opposite is also true: Kinect requires Dance Central. Amazon is proving this point -- for a limited time, while supplies last -- by offering Dance Central for free (along with a bonus 240 Microsoft Points -- hello Paula Abdul!) with purchase of the 4GB Xbox 360 system bundle with Kinect, which already includes Kinect Adventures. Check out Amazon's promotion page for more details.

But here's the $130 question: What's missing from the picture? Ding-ding -- that's right! A hard drive. But Amazon has that on sale too, for just a dime under $91. So, buying the 4GB system bundle with Kinect and the 250GB hard drive separately is actually a shade cheaper than buying the 250GB bundle with Kinect -- plus Dance Central's tossed in there. That's a good deal.

JoystiqFree Dance Central with 4GB Kinect Xbox purchase on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondance-centralkinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-360-slimTue, 15 Mar 2011 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Major Nelson: Xbox 360 sold out in Dec., supply tight now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/major-nelson-xbox-360-sold-out-in-dec-supply-tight-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/major-nelson-xbox-360-sold-out-in-dec-supply-tight-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/13/major-nelson-xbox-360-sold-out-in-dec-supply-tight-now/#comments According to Xbox 360 hype man Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb, Microsoft isn't expecting to "win" December's hardware sales battle, as depicted in the NPD's monthly report (to be released later today). "I found out we ran out of consoles at the end of the month," Hryb tweeted, with a follow-up that added, "Jan/Feb supply is tight as well."

That said, he's anticipating "likely amazing YOY [year-over-year] growth numbers for Xbox." In non-business speak, that means he's expecting last month's Xbox 360 hardware sales to have surpassed the figure recorded in December 2009. While that would mean more than 1.31 million Xboxes were sold in the final month of 2010, if Hryb's prediction is correct, it would also mark the second year in a row that the Xbox was bested by Sony's PlayStation 3 in one of the year's most important sales months.

Either way, coupled with the many millions of Kinect units sold last year, Microsoft likely enjoyed its holiday -- though anyone who got a Kinect without an Xbox 360 was probably feeling scrooged.

JoystiqMajor Nelson: Xbox 360 sold out in Dec., supply tight now originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>larry-hrybmajor-nelsonmicrosoftnpdsalesxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimThu, 13 Jan 2011 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[12 Days of Joyswag: Xbox 360 S plus 'Games for the Holidays,' A World of Keflings, Raskulls, and ilomilo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/25/12-days-of-joyswag-xbox-360-s-plus-games-for-the-holidays-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/25/12-days-of-joyswag-xbox-360-s-plus-games-for-the-holidays-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/25/12-days-of-joyswag-xbox-360-s-plus-games-for-the-holidays-a/#comments To celebrate the holidays, we're having twelve straight days of giveaways up through Christmas day. And while we say it's to celebrate, really ... we're simply getting rid of some of the larger packages around the ol' office.

Remember when Microsoft promised everyone in the audience during its 2010 E3 keynote a brand-new Xbox 360 S, the just-announced redesigned console? We've got just one left and we're going to take this opportunity to unload it before the year's out. But instead of just a plain ol' 250GB Xbox 360 S console, we're going to spice matters up with codes for all three of this month's Xbox Live Arcade "Games for the Holidays," featuring A World of Keflings, Raskulls, and ilomilo.

We've got nine other sets of codes which we'll be handing out on Twitter and Facebook over the course of the week but, for now, get in on our final piece of Joyswag in this series. Happy holidays!

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim (live shots!)

Continue reading 12 Days of Joyswag: Xbox 360 S plus 'Games for the Holidays,' A World of Keflings, Raskulls, and ilomilo

Joystiq12 Days of Joyswag: Xbox 360 S plus 'Games for the Holidays,' A World of Keflings, Raskulls, and ilomilo originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Dec 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-days-of-joyswag-2010A-World-of-KeflingsGames-for-the-HolidaysilomilojoyswagmicrosoftRaskullsxboxXbox-360-SlimSat, 25 Dec 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect standalone power supply now available from Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/kinect-standalone-power-supply-now-available-from-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/kinect-standalone-power-supply-now-available-from-microsoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/09/kinect-standalone-power-supply-now-available-from-microsoft/#comments So you bought a new Xbox 360 S console bundled with Kinect last week and, like many others, found your new camera doodad doesn't come with its own power supply -- clearly, Microsoft thought you intended to use your Kinect with this console and this console alone. You were up the proverbial creek, sans paddle ... until now.

Microsoft's online store now has a listing for the power supply. No, you can't simply get one on the arm since you purchased the Xbox 360 S bundle -- no, instead you've got to reach into your wallet for $34.99 if you want one. That's almost one whole fifth of the cost of Kinect on its own but, hey, if you need one, now you know where to get it.

JoystiqKinect standalone power supply now available from Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Kinect-Adventuresmicrosoftmicrosoft-kinectpower-adapterxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimTue, 09 Nov 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 4GB bundle deal featured on Microsoft Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/xbox-360-4gb-bundle-deal-featured-on-microsoft-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/xbox-360-4gb-bundle-deal-featured-on-microsoft-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/xbox-360-4gb-bundle-deal-featured-on-microsoft-store/#comments The Microsoft Store has launched a decent deal on an Xbox 360 S 4GB bundle. For $250, the bundle includes the 4GB system, two wireless controllers, a year of Xbox Live Gold and 4000 Microsoft Points (a.k.a. $50 worth of Xbox bucks). All of these items purchased separately would normally cost $350, so you're technically saving $100. However, we'd be remiss not to point out that if you ever want a hard drive, it'll run you another $130.

Of course, you could stave off the inevitable with a liberal dose of flash drives, or, if you're feeling particularly adventurous, you could always mod that old Xbox hard drive.

JoystiqXbox 360 4GB bundle deal featured on Microsoft Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gbbundlemicrosoftxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimFri, 15 Oct 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Reach co-op requires hard drive, 4GB Xbox 360 Slims have to go solo [update: MS responds]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/halo-reach-co-op-requires-hard-drive-4gb-xbox-360-slims-have-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/halo-reach-co-op-requires-hard-drive-4gb-xbox-360-slims-have-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/halo-reach-co-op-requires-hard-drive-4gb-xbox-360-slims-have-t/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bad news for some of you who wanted to Remember Reach with some of your closest pals: Halo Reach's excellent co-op functionality requires an Xbox 360 hard drive. While that's unfortunate for all non-hard drive owning Xbox 360 gamers, it's especially worrisome for those of you who recently jumped into a 4GB Xbox 360 S. While they finally (quietly) released a hard drive for the new console, the $130 asking price is a hefty barrier to entry if you're looking for some co-op fun. Microsoft's official Halo: Reach FAQ page confirms the shortcoming:
Q1: The error "One or more players do not have an Xbox 360 Hard Drive. An Xbox 360 Hard Drive is required to play co-op on Xbox LIVE or system link" occurs when I try to play. Why?

A1: One or more players do not have a certified Xbox 360 hard drive attached to their Xbox 360 console. Some multiplayer aspects of Halo: Reach require an Xbox 360 certified hard drive.
Nukezilla further confirms that USB memory sticks can't fill in for the absent storage and UK gamers will have to wait until later this month to get the £80 hard drive. Evidently, this limitation was present in Halo 3: ODST as well. Anyone affected by this issue?

Update: Microsoft has informed Eurogamer that the issue is "temporary" and that the company is "working to resolve it."

[Thanks, Arafat!]

JoystiqHalo: Reach co-op requires hard drive, 4GB Xbox 360 Slims have to go solo [update: MS responds] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungieHalo-ReachmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosxboxXbox-360-SlimWed, 15 Sep 2010 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mod at your own risk: How to put an old Xbox 360 HDD into Xbox 360 S]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/mod-at-your-own-risk-put-your-old-xbox-360-hdd-into-your-xbox-360-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/mod-at-your-own-risk-put-your-old-xbox-360-hdd-into-your-xbox-360-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/mod-at-your-own-risk-put-your-old-xbox-360-hdd-into-your-xbox-360-s/#comments We're no good with screwdrivers -- OK, well, some of us are -- so we'd probably never attempt to mod our shiny new 4GB Xbox 360 S by fitting an old hard drive in it. If you're braver than us (very likely), feel free to check out the step-by-step guide past the break, which pulls back the curtain on the magical process of techno-wizardy fueling this hybrid of form and frugality.

Continue reading Mod at your own risk: How to put an old Xbox 360 HDD into Xbox 360 S

JoystiqMod at your own risk: How to put an old Xbox 360 HDD into Xbox 360 S originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hddhdd-modmicrosoftmodmoddingxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimWed, 25 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vejle bares all: Xbox 360 Slim's system-on-chip exposed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/vejle-bares-all-xbox-360-slims-system-on-chip-exposed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/vejle-bares-all-xbox-360-slims-system-on-chip-exposed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/vejle-bares-all-xbox-360-slims-system-on-chip-exposed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Technophiles have no doubt been anxious to traverse that final frontier of Xbox 360 S technology: the shared CPU/GPU, dubbed Vejle after the city in Denmark. This 45nm system-on-chip (SoC) trims much of the fat of its predecessor, slimming down to 372 million transistors (it is summer -- gotta look your best out there!), requiring a mere 40 percent of the power and less than 50 percent of the die space used by the original Xbox 360 chipset.

It's actually the first desktop-class processor to combine a CPU, GPU, memory and I/O logic onto a single slice of silicon, which cuts down manufacturing costs dramatically. But perhaps one of its best features is how the chip will actually self-induce lag so as not to run faster than the previous chip -- a necessity of the architecture of the Xbox 360, since the new console must perform exactly as the previous hardware has.

The rest of it is probably too technical for us to try and explain, so hit up the source links below for additional info. If you need help breaking it all down, call up Tom, that smart friend of yours -- he's probably just sitting around, watching Star Trek or something.

JoystiqVejle bares all: Xbox 360 Slim's system-on-chip exposed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftsystem-on-chipvejlevejle-chipxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimTue, 24 Aug 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[4GB Xbox 360 arrives in Japan on Sept. 9]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/4gb-xbox-360-arrives-in-japan-on-september-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/4gb-xbox-360-arrives-in-japan-on-september-9/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/24/4gb-xbox-360-arrives-in-japan-on-september-9/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft is launching its cheaper 4GB XBox 360 S in Japan on September 9. It'll sell for the same ¥19,800 ($235) price as the original Arcade system, and will come packed with a wireless controller, AV cables and an AC adapter. No big surprises. It makes even more sense to have a cheaper Xbox bundle in Japan than it does here, since Microsoft has to do something to try to sell some of these.

What is a bit more surprising, considering the stealth launch of the accessory in America, is that Microsoft officially announced a separate 250GB hard drive for Japan at the same time. The ¥15,540 ($184) price is a good indicator that people should seriously just buy the 250GB Xbox 360 bundle.

Joystiq4GB Xbox 360 arrives in Japan on Sept. 9 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gb250gb-hddJapanmicrosoftRelease-DatexboxXbox-360-SXbox-360-SlimTue, 24 Aug 2010 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 S 250GB hard drive available ... right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/20/xbox-360-s-250gb-hard-drive-available-right-now/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you already want a hard drive for that 4GB Xbox 360 S you bought, you could wait patiently for Microsoft to announce the accessory ... or you could just go to Gamestop and buy one. Reader Iain informs Joystiq that he spotted the 250GB hard drives for the redesigned Xbox in his local store -- and they're also available on GameStop.com right now. (We couldn't find the item being offered by any other retailer yet.)

Of course, the $130 price for the drive completely obliterates any savings you might temporarily enjoy after buying the $200 4GB model (or the upcoming Kinect bundle), but it sure beats a mountain of USB flash drives.

[Thanks, Iain]

JoystiqXbox 360 S 250GB hard drive available ... right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbgamestophard-drivemicrosoftretailxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-slimFri, 20 Aug 2010 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[250GB Xbox Kinect bundle spotted on 4GB bundle packaging]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/250gb-xbox-kinect-bundle-spotted-on-4gb-bundle-packaging/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/250gb-xbox-kinect-bundle-spotted-on-4gb-bundle-packaging/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/250gb-xbox-kinect-bundle-spotted-on-4gb-bundle-packaging/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Although the bundle has yet to be announced, a 250GB Xbox 360 / Kinect bundle can be seen on Microsoft's Australian packaging for the 4GB Xbox 360 / Kinect box.

The 250GB bundle appears to be very similar to the matte 4GB bundle, with the exception of the larger capacity hard drive, a glossy finish, and the inclusion of a headset. It isn't clear what game comes with the bundle, though it's most likely Kinect Adventures, the standard offering in both the standalone Kinect package and the 4GB Xbox bundle. The 250GB model also has the following note: "Hard Drive includes game and demos." The demos we're used to, but it seems that Microsoft may be foregoing an extra disc and putting the pack-in game on the hard drive itself.

We're following up with Microsoft for more details, pricing and - yes - international release plans.

Update: Microsoft's official response to Joystiq: "We have nothing to announce at this time."

Continue reading 250GB Xbox Kinect bundle spotted on 4GB bundle packaging

Joystiq250GB Xbox Kinect bundle spotted on 4GB bundle packaging originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxXbox-360-250GB-Kinect-BundleXbox-360-4GB-Kinect-BundleXbox-360-Kinect-Bundlexbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimXbox-Kinect-BundleFri, 06 Aug 2010 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Xbox 360 Slim, 250GB version]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/joyswag-xbox-360-slim-250gb-version/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/joyswag-xbox-360-slim-250gb-version/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/joyswag-xbox-360-slim-250gb-version/#commentsXbox 360 Slim box [Update: We've got a winner! Congrats to @drfloppyphd for his RT.]

When Microsoft announced it was giving everyone present at its E3 press conference a gratis Xbox 360 Slim, we told you to expect to see our units up for grabs shortly thereafter. Sure, it's been a little longer than we'd have liked, but we're finally set to give these things away. We're starting today with a simple, Twitter-flavored giveaway. It's easy:
  • Retweet our tweet about the Joystiq iPhone app video tour
    • Not sure how to retweet? Watch this helpful video
    • Feel free to include a message with your retweet (we really want more reviews!)
    • Example: "You really should download (and review!) the new Joystiq app! RT @joystiq Video tour: Joystiq app for iPhone, iPod Touch http://bit.ly/cqYmVE"
  • You have until 7pm ET tomorrow, Thursday July 29
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive a 250GB Xbox 360 "Slim" (ARV $300)
  • You must be 13 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec)
  • Limit 1 entry per person
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
Keep your eyes out for more chances to win of of our two remaining Slims in the coming weeks.

What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition.

For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: Xbox 360 Slim, 250GB version originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JoyswagmicrosoftxboxXbox-360-SlimWed, 28 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: $400 Halo Reach Xbox 360 bundle on the way [update: confirmed!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/22/halo-reach-xbox-360-bundle-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/22/halo-reach-xbox-360-bundle-on-the-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/22/halo-reach-xbox-360-bundle-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ars Technica is reporting that Microsoft is on the verge of announcing a Halo: Reach Xbox 360 hardware bundle. The $399.99 package will contain a silver version of the new Xbox 360 S (equipped with a 250GB hard drive), a copy of the game (of course!) and two wireless controllers. The bundle was detailed by -- who else? -- the Ars Mole and would likely be released alongside the various retail editions of the game on September 14.

Further evidence of the Reach-branded hardware comes by way of Joystiq reader "killer rin," who sent us a link to this Xbox.com page (now removed), which had advertised a Reach-themed controller (captured above) for $60. The controller appears to reflect the design suggested in Ars' report.

Update: Microsoft has announced the bundle. See glamour shots and find all the details here!

JoystiqReport: $400 Halo Reach Xbox 360 bundle on the way [update: confirmed!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleBungieHaloHalo-Reachhardwaremicrosoftxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimThu, 22 Jul 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Discounted original Xbox 360s outsold new 'S' model in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/discounted-original-xbox-360s-outsold-new-s-model-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/discounted-original-xbox-360s-outsold-new-s-model-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/20/discounted-original-xbox-360s-outsold-new-s-model-in-june/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft enjoyed a "significant sales spike" for Xbox 360 hardware in June, but according to Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter, discounts on the original version of the Xbox 360 may have had more to do with driving consumer excitement than the new model.

40 percent of Xboxes sold in the US last month were new "Short" systems, Pachter told investors in a report (summarized by GamesIndustry.biz), with $150 Arcade systems accounting for another 35 percent. That leaves various bundles, also discounted by $50, as the other 25 percent of the month's sales.

"It is clear that the sales spike for the 360 was largely temporary, as clearance items accounted for around 60 per cent of total sales," Pachter concluded, "and it is not clear that software attached heavily to these purchase." Those discounted Xboxes would account for an even higher percentage by volume!

Gallery: Xbox 360/Xbox 360 'Short' visual comparison

JoystiqDiscounted original Xbox 360s outsold new 'S' model in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hardwareMichael-PachtermicrosoftNPDsalesxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimTue, 20 Jul 2010 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Crackdown 2 holds on to top UK sales spot; Xbox 360 S has solid launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/crackdown-2-holds-on-to-top-uk-sales-spot-xbox-360-s-has-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/crackdown-2-holds-on-to-top-uk-sales-spot-xbox-360-s-has-solid/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/19/crackdown-2-holds-on-to-top-uk-sales-spot-xbox-360-s-has-solid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Crackdown 2 just barely held off Dance on Broadway last week to maintain the top spot on the UK all formats chart for a second week in a row. According to Chart-Track, "Orb Collector 2" sales dropped 36 percent and only sold about 800 units more than Ubisoft's show tune-themed Just Dance successor (the original Just Dance retained a supporting role in the ten spot). Lego Harry Potter: Years 1-4 and Red Dead Redemption each slipped one spot to third and fourth, respectively. The lone new entry in the top ten was Disney's Toy Story 3 in fifth place.

In hardware sales, although Chart-Track didn't reveal specific numbers, the Xbox 360 Slim (or Short) enjoyed the UK's most successful launch for a "revised" console. The redesigned console surpassed the relaunches of both the PS2 and PS3 slim models and, in its opening weekend, matched the regional launch figures of the Pro and Core Xbox 360 SKUs from back in late 2005.

Continue reading Crackdown 2 holds on to top UK sales spot; Xbox 360 S has solid launch

JoystiqCrackdown 2 holds on to top UK sales spot; Xbox 360 S has solid launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainchart-trackCrackdown-2Dance-on-Broadwayhardwarelego-harry-potterlego-harry-potter-years-1-4microsoftnintendoplaystationps3Riot-Act-2salessoftwareukwiixboxxbox-360-slimMon, 19 Jul 2010 12:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Xbox 360 data transfer and YOU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/video-xbox-360-data-transfer-and-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/video-xbox-360-data-transfer-and-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/15/video-xbox-360-data-transfer-and-you/#comments With the release of the newly redesigned Xbox 360, we're sure more than a few Xbox gamers have been considering an upgrade. With that upgrade comes a very important question: How do you get your data off the old Xbox and onto the new Xbox? To answer this question, we decided to put together a helpful how-to video. The video covers two methods of transfer: USB drives and the official Microsoft data transfer cable.

Of course, this is a very important subject for Xbox owners, so rather than shoot the video ourselves, we farmed it out to a real production studio to give it that professional touch. We think the results speak for themselves.

Continue reading Video: Xbox 360 data transfer and YOU

JoystiqVideo: Xbox 360 data transfer and YOU originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bill-BranstonguidemicrosoftxboxXbox-360-ShortXbox-360-SlimThu, 15 Jul 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 '4GB Arcade System Bundle' spotted on Amazon Germany]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/xbox-360-4gb-arcade-system-bundle-spotted-on-amazon-germany/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/xbox-360-4gb-arcade-system-bundle-spotted-on-amazon-germany/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/13/xbox-360-4gb-arcade-system-bundle-spotted-on-amazon-germany/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Amazon's German site has listed an "Xbox 360 4 GB Arcade System Bundle" (link is valid as of this writing) for pre-order, which could possibly be the cheaper Xbox 360 "slim" hardware that Microsoft has said is coming sometime this fall.

The "4GB" in the title implies that this Arcade version has 4GB of storage included, either as NVRAM or in the form of a USB flash drive. (The soon-to-be-obsolete Xbox Arcade only has 512 MB of NVRAM.) The price is listed as €148.99 ($189), which is slightly lower than the $199 Microsoft told us, not to mention that "bundle" suggests it will include a game -- or maybe something Kinect-related.

Then there's the street date, which Amazon has down as August 20, 2010. While that confirms nothing (as retailers are notorious for playing fast and loose with release dates), we will draw attention to this: That's smack dab in the middle of Gamescom 2010. Shades of Microsoft's E3 revelation of the new Xbox 360 and that it was shipping immediately? Stay tuned.

JoystiqXbox 360 '4GB Arcade System Bundle' spotted on Amazon Germany originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jul 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonarcadebundlegermanymicrosoftxboxxbox-360xbox-360-arcadexbox-360-slimTue, 13 Jul 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft claims 'unprecedented demand' for new Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/microsoft-claims-unprecedented-demand-for-new-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/microsoft-claims-unprecedented-demand-for-new-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/05/microsoft-claims-unprecedented-demand-for-new-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Although Microsoft didn't provide specific sales figures (per usual), the company claims it's seeing "unprecedented demand" from retailers for its new Xbox 360 console. In a statement released following May's NPD results, Microsoft claimed a "significant sales spike" for its new Xbox 360 250GB "short" model, along with its older Arcade and Elite units (which both received a $50 price reduction).

The new console hit US store shelves around June 14. As for the sales spike's impact on the June NPDs (which will be released next month), Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter stated in his analysis of May's results: "We think that the boost in June hardware sales could allow June software sales to approach flat, notwithstanding a lackluster release schedule."

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim

JoystiqMicrosoft claims 'unprecedented demand' for new Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michael-pachtermicrosoftnpdxboxxbox-360-sxbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimMon, 05 Jul 2010 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 shuts down before overheating]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/22/new-xbox-360-shuts-down-before-overheating/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/22/new-xbox-360-shuts-down-before-overheating/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/22/new-xbox-360-shuts-down-before-overheating/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Okay, gang, we really need your help. Though Microsoft's shrunken, Valhalla-equipped version of its home console was announced last week, new functions of the device are just now starting to surface. The latest is an auto-shutdown feature which turns off the console when its primary cooling vent is blocked, which displays a warning prompt on screen and turns the console's power button into the ominous vision seen above.

So, here's what we need your help with: We feel like we can still get in front of this thing, and coin the new colloquial phrase for this warning. That guy who came up with "Red Ring of Death?" He's making bank off royalties, and papa wants a slice. So, let's start spitballing: Red Eye of Danger? Red Dot of Poor Ventilation? Red Light of Uncomfortable Proximity? How about, like, "The Killswitch?" It's foreboding, yet strangely catchy.

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 shuts down before overheating originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftrrodvalhallaxboxxbox-360-slimTue, 22 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New $199 Xbox 360 coming this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/200-dollar-xbox-360-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/200-dollar-xbox-360-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/200-dollar-xbox-360-coming-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A Microsoft representative has confirmed to Joystiq that a $199 version of the new "short" Xbox 360 will be available this fall. Kotaku recently reported on a retailer document revealing the cheaper version of the console, along with a SKU containing both the new Xbox system and Kinect. Microsoft declined to comment on the Kinect bundle or offer any further details of the $199 model (beyond the price and release window).

At least we now know that Microsoft isn't crazy and hasn't completely given up on having a $199 Xbox 360 to pit against the Wii. It also makes sense that a $199 "Arcade" version would be on the way, given that retailers like Amazon still refer to the new 250GB model as the "Elite."

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim

JoystiqNew $199 Xbox 360 coming this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftSKUxboxxbox-360-arcadexbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimMon, 21 Jun 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Visual comparison of Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 'Slim,' er, 'Short']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/visual-comparison-of-xbox-360-and-xbox-360-slim-er-short/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/visual-comparison-of-xbox-360-and-xbox-360-slim-er-short/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/visual-comparison-of-xbox-360-and-xbox-360-slim-er-short/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We know what the technical differences are between the original Xbox 360 and the Xbox 360 "Slim," but on initial impression the new model didn't look much skinnier. Despite being seemingly equal at first glance, the side-by-side reveals the truth: the new Xbox just drank too much coffee as a kid. We may have been a bit quick in colloquially naming it the "Slim," perhaps we should have gone with Xbox 360 "Short."

Gallery: Xbox 360/Xbox 360 'Short' visual comparison

JoystiqVisual comparison of Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 'Slim,' er, 'Short' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010microsoftxboxxbox-360-shortxbox-360-slimFri, 18 Jun 2010 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 slim 17% smaller than original, incapable of RROD-ing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/xbox-360-slim-17-smaller-than-original-incapable-of-rrod-ing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/xbox-360-slim-17-smaller-than-original-incapable-of-rrod-ing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/xbox-360-slim-17-smaller-than-original-incapable-of-rrod-ing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A tipster sent us an info sheet on Microsoft's new slimmer Xbox 360. Of most interest to us was the spec sheet, with some notable highlights: support for Kensington Locks, and dimensions. According to these specs, the "new S console" is about 17% smaller than the original and also physically incapable of getting the red ring of death. No, that doesn't mean the console won't break -- instead, the Xbox 360 slim lacks a red "ring of light." If your console runs into some fatal error, expect it to flash green.

Should we get ready to coin the GROD?

[Thanks, B.!]

JoystiqXbox 360 slim 17% smaller than original, incapable of RROD-ing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010microsoftxboxxbox-360-slimWed, 16 Jun 2010 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The new Xbox 360 now available for pre-order on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/the-new-xbox-360-now-available-for-pre-order-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/the-new-xbox-360-now-available-for-pre-order-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/the-new-xbox-360-now-available-for-pre-order-on-amazon/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the announcement of new hardware, there are always the subsequent cries of, "Dude, when can I has?" Well, you can has soon (like, tomorrow), as Amazon has opened a pre-order page for Microsoft's shiny, slimmed down Xbox 360 console. As previously stated, the console refresh will set consumers back $299 and comes packed with a 250GB HDD and built-in Wi-Fi.

If you're on the fence about adopting a shiny new console, then check out our HD unboxing video and our gallery of stills below. We've always found that staring at glossy, expensive electronics helps us make life's most difficult decisions.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim (live shots!)

JoystiqThe new Xbox 360 now available for pre-order on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Amazone3-2010pre-orderXbox-360-Slimxbox-360-slim-pre-orderxbox-360-slim-preorderMon, 14 Jun 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 slim HDD data transfer cable to retail for $20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-hdd-data-transfer-cable-to-retail-for-19-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-hdd-data-transfer-cable-to-retail-for-19-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-hdd-data-transfer-cable-to-retail-for-19-99/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A question you may be asking yourself: If I upgrade to an Xbox 360 Slim, how do I transfer the data on my current Xbox to the new one? It was revealed to us at Microsoft's Xbox 360 Slim unwrapping event that the new console will support the current data transfer cable (originally made for the Xbox 360 Elite). We also learned that the cables will be available at retail for $19.99 -- a very good thing considering how hard the cables are to find these days. The cables should be available when the new consoles hit the shelves (which should be any day now).

The transfer process is easy enough: Attach the cable to your old hard drive and connect the other end into the USB slot of the 360 Slim. No additional software is required to initiate the transfer process.

If you prefer more cumbersome data transfer methods, of course, you could always move data 8GB at a time with flash drives. If that's still too convenient, you can redownload each and every piece of content from Xbox Live.

JoystiqXbox 360 slim HDD data transfer cable to retail for $20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010microsoftxboxXbox-360-SlimMon, 14 Jun 2010 19:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 slim, unwrapped and unboxed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-unwrapped-and-unboxed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-unwrapped-and-unboxed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-unwrapped-and-unboxed/#comments Microsoft surprised all of us today -- not by announcing a redesigned Xbox 360 system -- but by giving them away to everyone attending their E3 press conference. While we promise to give these new systems away to you soon, we wanted to give you a closer look at the new hardware (shipping to retailers today!).

Continue reading Xbox 360 slim, unwrapped and unboxed

JoystiqXbox 360 slim, unwrapped and unboxed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010microsoftunboxingxboxxbox-360xbox-360-slimMon, 14 Jun 2010 18:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Original Xbox 360 requires separate power connection for Kinect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/original-xbox-360-requires-separate-power-for-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/original-xbox-360-requires-separate-power-for-kinect/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/original-xbox-360-requires-separate-power-for-kinect/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Planning on buying a Kinect this November? If you've got one of those ... not-so-Slim Xbox 360s, then you're gonna need some extra power outlets, as Microsoft tells us that older Xbox consoles will need a separate power supply for the motion controller add-on. While new, less opulent 360s will be able to support the Kinect without any external wattage, older consoles will require a power outlet for the device to work.

JoystiqOriginal Xbox 360 requires separate power connection for Kinect originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010kinectmicrosoftxboxxbox-360-slimMon, 14 Jun 2010 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 'Slim' priced, dated for UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-priced-dated-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-priced-dated-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-priced-dated-for-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Xbox 360 Slim is making its way to England on July 16, 2010, at £199. The price comes courtesy of Play.com, and the release date was reported by UK Inside Xbox producer, Andy Farrant, on his Twitter.

Microsoft announced the new $299 console with built-in Wi-Fi and 250GB HDD at its E3 press conference earlier today.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim

JoystiqXbox 360 'Slim' priced, dated for UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemicrosoftxboxxbox-360-slimMon, 14 Jun 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New Xbox 360 slim: hardware details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/new-xbox-360-hardware-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/new-xbox-360-hardware-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/new-xbox-360-hardware-details/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We're touching the new, slimmer Xbox 360 right now at the Microsoft E3 event, and we've got more details on the console and its hardware. The new Xbox has touch-sensitive on/off and eject buttons and built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi. There are ports for optical audio, A/V, HDMI, ethernet, and a custom port for the Kinect connection, as well as five USB ports. Only the standard A/V component cables come with the system (the same cables that come with the current model), so the HDMI cable is still separate. The power supply is all new and much smaller, and the console itself is "whisper quiet," with just one large fan instead of two, placed specifically on the side of the console to improve acoustics. The system makes a little chime when you flip it on as well, and the disc drive still sounds the same when it spins up.

The hard drive is 250GB, and there's a tab on the bottom that you can pull out to replace it if necessary. Transfer software is built into the system this time, so all you have to do is plug one end of the cable (available for $19.99) into the system, the other end into the hard drive, and then transfer away -- no disc needed. The case is black and glossy, smaller and thinner than the white version. The console will come with one standard wireless controller, backwards compatible with previous versions of the hardware, of course. All of the accessories are black, including the chatpad. It feels lighter to hold than the original Xbox -- not that you'd be moving it around much.

We're continuing to prod and poke at the new hardware -- stay tuned for more details on the new Xbox 360 as E3 continues this week.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim (live shots!)

JoystiqNew Xbox 360 slim: hardware details originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftxboxxbox-360xbox-360-slimMon, 14 Jun 2010 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Slim, first pictures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-first-pictures/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-first-pictures/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/xbox-360-slim-first-pictures/#commentsXbox 360 Slim Here it is: the eagerly anticipated (and one might argue, long overdue) Xbox 360 Slim. First outed by an Italian ad yesterday, the redesigned Xbox is an angular take on the Xbox 360 frame. We've got some pics, fresh from Microsoft's keynote. Head into the gallery for the full experience.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim (live shots!)



JoystiqXbox 360 Slim, first pictures originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010microsoftxboxXbox-360-SlimMon, 14 Jun 2010 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 slim shipping today for $299; 250GB HDD, built-in Wi-Fi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/new-xbox-360-shipping-today-for-299-250gb-hdd-built-in-wifi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/new-xbox-360-shipping-today-for-299-250gb-hdd-built-in-wifi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/new-xbox-360-shipping-today-for-299-250gb-hdd-built-in-wifi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Microsoft has officially revealed a new Xbox 360 (the same one we already saw in that Italian ad) with a 250GB HDD, built-in Wi-Fi, a shiny new coat of glossy black paint, and, insanely enough, it's shipping to retailers right now. Attendees of today's presser got free ones, so you can expect us to be giving away as many as we can, as soon as we can. It seems Ben Heck was pretty much on the money when he walked us through the alleged Slim motherboard in March.

Update: Elsewhere on Joystiq, you'll find the first technical details on the new hardware.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Slim

JoystiqXbox 360 slim shipping today for $299; 250GB HDD, built-in Wi-Fi originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e3-2010microsoftxboxxbox-360-slimMon, 14 Jun 2010 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Xbox 360 Slim and Kinect outed by Microsoft ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/13/rumor-xbox-360-slim-and-kinect-outed-by-microsoft-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/13/rumor-xbox-360-slim-and-kinect-outed-by-microsoft-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/13/rumor-xbox-360-slim-and-kinect-outed-by-microsoft-ad/#comments An alleged Italian Microsoft ad, originally found on Console Tribe, seems to have revealed a slim Xbox 360 alongside a renamed Project Natal, touting a 250GB HDD, built-in WiFi (it's the future!), and compatibility with "Kinect" -- presumably the new name for Natal. The advertisement leads back to the Italian Microsoft site and the source of the page tells us that Atlas Solutions -- a Microsoft-owned ad company -- pushed the image automatically to the site.

We've checked in with Microsoft to see if the news is legit, but we're not expecting much before tonight's Project Natal Cirque du Soleil "spectacular." In the meantime, you can check out the ad embedded after the break.

Update: The ad we embedded after the break seems to have been pulled, so we've added a video in its place.

Continue reading Rumor: Xbox 360 Slim and Kinect outed by Microsoft ad

JoystiqRumor: Xbox 360 Slim and Kinect outed by Microsoft ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jun 2010 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010kinectmicrosoftproject-natalxboxxbox-360-slimSun, 13 Jun 2010 19:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Ben Heck ponders Xbox 360 Slim: Motherboard, Memory Unit support, internal hard drive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/ben-heck-ponders-xbox-360-slim-motherboard-memory-unit-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/ben-heck-ponders-xbox-360-slim-motherboard-memory-unit-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/ben-heck-ponders-xbox-360-slim-motherboard-memory-unit-support/#comments
Full image after break
In light of recent Xbox 360 hardware news, like pictures revealing an alleged Xbox 360 Slim motherboard and documentation of USB storage in a future update, we decided to see if the two stories tied together in some technical way. Surprisingly, they just might. Modding artist, hardware sculptor and warranty wrecker, Ben Heck, told us that if the leaked Slim motherboard is legitimate, not only does he see no place for memory cards (lending even more credence to USB storage for data transfer), but he dropped on us the idea that it may also have an internal hard drive. To emphasize, this conversation is speculation based on potential evidence that has not been confirmed by Microsoft.

Joystiq: Okay, before we go any further, explain this internal hard drive theory?

Ben Heckendorn: Well if you look at the upper left of the board, there appear to be (2) SATA connections. One is clearly for the DVD-ROM, of course, but what's the other one for? My guess is an internal hard drive. How it connects I'm not sure, but why else have 2 SATA connectors? Also there's an extra plug that could be hard drive power (next to DVD power).

Now, after looking at the board, you said you were "99 percent sure" there are no Xbox 360 memory card slots. Please explain.

None of the connectors look remotely like an Xbox 360 memory card reader [Ed: See one after break]. Keep in mind the memory cards were kind of a "Trojan horse" to have a hard drive-less (cheap) 360 back in 2005. Now, especially with built-in memory since the Jaspers, they are essentially useless. Why waste money and space on adding something none of your new customers will even need?

Of note: The memory cards were basically USB devices, except they ran off 3.3 volts and had security chips to authenticate them, as do all Xbox 360 peripherals.

Continue reading Ben Heck ponders Xbox 360 Slim: Motherboard, Memory Unit support, internal hard drive

JoystiqBen Heck ponders Xbox 360 Slim: Motherboard, Memory Unit support, internal hard drive originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analysis-opinionben-heckben-heckendornbenjamin-heckendornheckendornMicrosoftslimXbox-360xbox-360-slimThu, 18 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts split on chance of slimmer Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/analysts-split-on-chance-of-slimmer-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/analysts-split-on-chance-of-slimmer-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/analysts-split-on-chance-of-slimmer-xbox-360/#comments When the first Xbox got old, Microsoft gave it Old Yeller treatment, though the metaphor would be more accurate if the beleaguered mutt had been forcibly stuffed into a rocket and shot into the sun. Some analysts think the 360 may get a kinder treatment later in its life cycle with a new form factor in the vein of Sony's new slim PS3.

"I think it is a question of when not if. However, the when part is a big uncertainty ... rumors have been going on for a long time. I think people were asking me the same question last year at this time," David Cole of DFC Intelligence told IndustryGamers. Others are less convinced, like Arvind Bhatia of Sterne Agee who said, "It would be nice but I don't think they have to. I think Natal will be killer app that will help keep the momentum for the 360 next year. I do think they need to cut the price by at least $50."

So, since the analysts can't seem to agree, we thought we'd put the question to you, the readers:

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JoystiqAnalysts split on chance of slimmer Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystsMicrosoftps3-slimXbox-360xbox-360-slimMon, 24 Aug 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft India says slim 360 is 'speculation or rumor' [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/rumor-xbox-india-event-says-slim-360-is-coming-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/rumor-xbox-india-event-says-slim-360-is-coming-in-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/rumor-xbox-india-event-says-slim-360-is-coming-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've received numerous tips (and noticed a rather popular digg) about an Xbox 360 event in Dehli, India that "confirmed" a slim Xbox 360 console was to be announced in December for release sometime in 2009. The information emanates from two English-language Indian gaming blogs, Split-Screen and Game Guru (a WHOIS search on both sites revealed nothing noteworthy).

Both blogs also mention that the region will be getting hands-on time with Fable 2, Gears of War 2 and Fallout 3 a week earlier than anyone else (we're guessing some special event, but neither article specifies) and a new 20GB package with Viva Piñata and Forza 2 for Rs.14,990 (approx. US $350).

While a slim Xbox 360 seems like a no-brainer for the future (we know there are smaller chipsets being made), here's why we're skeptical about this: logic dictates that Microsoft would not announce it in December, given that such news would likely hurt sales during the holiday season. Furthermore, no utterance of such an event can be found on Xbox India's official forums or major India newspaper the Times of India.

A final drop of skepticism can be added from Major Nelson himself, who told X3F, "I have no knowledge of an event in India and therefore anything related to one. I think we all know that if we had something to say, we'd be saying it." A similar rumor showed up in May, which Microsoft then denied.

Update: Microsoft India has shot down this alleged "announcement," labeling it as no more than "market rumor or speculation."

[Note: Slim Xbox 360 in image is fan-made mockup.]

JoystiqMicrosoft India says slim 360 is 'speculation or rumor' [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>indiarumorXbox-360xbox-360-slimSun, 28 Sep 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor Control: The Xbox 360 Slim [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/rumor-control-the-xbox-360-slim/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/rumor-control-the-xbox-360-slim/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/28/rumor-control-the-xbox-360-slim/#commentsFiled under:


Many of our tipsters are flooding us with the same information; according to a blog named Split-Screen, Microsoft confirmed and announced a Slim model of the Xbox 360 at a recent event in India. Instead of just posting the rumor without checking sources we decided to do a little detective work to confirm or deny the existence of the Xbox 360 Slim.

An email to Xbox 360 community guru Larry Hryb - aka Major Nelson - asked two questions. First, did someone at Microsoft mistakenly announce a Slim version of the Xbox 360? Second, was there even a Microsoft event held in India?

The second question may sound strange but considering no major outlet has reported on the event happening as well as a lack of listing for the event on the Xbox India site made us question the "event" even took place. The last news update on the Indian site was from August 2008 and the forums are suspiciously barren of any "event" mention, which seems suspect. In response to our inquires Major sent us a note saying, "I have no knowledge of an event in India and therefore anything related to one. I think we all know that if we had something to say, we'd be saying it."

Is the console possible? Aboslutely. Our sister site Engadget ran a story months ago outlining the possibility due to Microsoft developing smaller CPUs for the console. However, we're more than a little skeptical about this one. Stay tuned as more inquires to Microsoft are taking place.

[Update: According to TheAngryPixel, Microsoft India has released a statement denying any such announcement regarding an Xbox 360 Slim took place. The original source on this rumor, Split-Screen, says one explanation is that its writer made a mistake. Rumor Busted. Full Microsoft-India quote after the jump.]

Continue reading Rumor Control: The Xbox 360 Slim [Update]

JoystiqRumor Control: The Xbox 360 Slim [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rumor-controlxbox-360-slimxbox-indiaSun, 28 Sep 2008 19:10:00 EST