Xbox 360 250GB Console Xbox 360

Released on 16/07/2010

• New Xbox achieves biggest 'Slim' launch yet!

  It looks like Microsoft has hit a home run with its redesigned Xbox 360 console. According to GFK Chart-Track, the new 250GB Xbox has had the biggest launch for a "revised" home console in UK history. Not bad!

  GFK Chart-Track announced that, over a two day period, the new console sold "around the same" amount as the original Xbox 360 did, when it was released all the way back in 2005. Although there are no figures to gawp at, it's apparent that the launch beat that of both the PlayStation 2 Slim and the PlayStation 3 Slim, both of which were also huge successes in their own right.

  The new 360 is significantly smaller than the original console, and is "whisper quiet", with no detectable fan or disk drive sound. It's also got built-in Wi-Fi, and a roomy 250GB hard drive.

  Many stores opened their doors at midnight on Thursday so punters could get their consoles as quickly as possible. The new Xbox 360 250GB costs 99.99, and has apparently been the subject of amazing demand.

• Old Xbox 360 VS New Xbox 360 250GB

  

  Introducing the 250GB Xbox 360: Time to Trade Up?

  Microsoft finished its E3 2010 press conference with a big surprise - the unveiling of the new 250GB Xbox 360. This one's slimmer, shinier and quieter than the original machine, and that bigger hard drive comes in handy for storing all those arcade games, movies and other delightful distractions that Xbox Live is chock full of.

  But the original 120GB model is still a great console, so which one should you buy? And if you've already got an Xbox 360, is it worth investing in the new model? Here's a comparison of the machines' features to help you decide.

   

  

  Size

  The 250GB Xbox 360 is 600 grammes lighter than its older counterpart, weighing in at 2.9kg. It's also 270mm across rather than 370mm, and slightly shorter with a height of 75mm. Depth-wise, the new console is actually bigger than the original - but only by a paltry 4mm.

  In other words, it's well worth trading up for the 250GB model if you prefer a more slimline machine which will take up less space under your telly.

  Colour

  The new machine comes in any colour you like, as long as it's black. A nice shiny black, of course, for a sleeker, more high-tech look.

  The original Xbox 360 is still available in grey and black, with a traditional matte finish which still looks good - but also has those funky Faceplates to help personalise your system, while there's no word on those yet for the New Xbox 250GB.

  Buttons

  The 250GB features a new power button. It responds to the slightest touch rather than a firm push, which should appeal to fans of cutting-edge tech. Plus, the ring of light will only ever appear green, so there's no near to ever fear the red ring of death again.

  Ports

  Both machines have two USB ports on the front, but the 250GB model has got three round the back instead of just the one. It's also got a dedicated, powered port for the Kinect motion-sensing camera. If you're using Kinect with the old Xbox 360, you'll need to plug a separate power supply into the wall. Score for the New Xbox, then - the less cables the better, we reckon.

  

  Drives

  With 250GB on board, the new Xbox 360 has more than double the memory capacity of the original console. That said, the Elite's 120GB is still pretty impressive, providing plenty of space to store games, movies and music.

  The new machine does have one distinct advantage when it comes to the disc drive - it's much quieter. If the whirr of the old 360's disc and fan bother you when trying to watch a film or play a game, consider upgrading so you can enjoy your entertainment in peace.

  

  Internet

  Whichever model you choose, the 360 gives you access to Microsoft's fantastic Xbox Live service. This lets you play games online, chat to friends, download game demos and extra content, plus choose from a huge library of downloadable games, films and music videos.

  The advantage of the 250GB console is that it has a wireless adapter built-in, so you can get online without the need for an ethernet cable. If you have an original Xbox 360, you can pick up an adapter separately - or just go old school and plug your machine straight into the wall.

  Games

  Both machines will play every single title in the massive library of games already out there for Xbox 360. That includes titles you can't play on any other console, like Halo, Gears of War, Fable II, Forza Motorsport and Crackdown 2. Then there are all those huge blockbusters - Grand Theft Auto, Call of Duty, Assassin's Creed, Final Fantasy...

  

  Not to mention the fantastic range of Kinect games due to arrive this autumn. For kids there are titles like Kinectimals, where you get to interact with an adorable selection of big cats. Keep fit freaks will enjoy Your Shape - the Kinect camera is so sophisticated it can tell whether you're performing those yoga poses properly.

  Or there's Kinect Adventures, a collection of action-packed mini-games which are perfect for party play... Adrenaline-fuelled racer Kinect Joy Ride, where you control cars just by using your own body movements... Motion Sports, which sees you and your friends competing in a giant virtual stadium...

  In short, whatever you're into, Kinect offers something for everyone, and will be playable on both types of Xbox console.

  Cost

  This will be a big one for bargain hunters. The new Xbox 360 launched at 99.99 - not unreasonable at all, especially given its size and feature set. That said, other, bigger Xbox models are available for rather less, but aren't as all-singing, all dancing. They'll definitely do the job, however.

  Of course, you could always opt for a compromise and bag a Limited Edition 250GB Super Elite. It's not small, slinky, Wi-Fi'd up or Kinect-ready, but does boast a 250GB Hard Drive of its own, features exclusive patterning for Forza 3, Final Fantasy XIII or the juggernaut that is CoD: MW2, and will set you back a bit less than the New Xbox.

  

  So... Which to choose?

  This is a bit of a tough one. Sure, the new 250GB console's stylings are sleek. But the design of the original Xbox 360 is a classic, and at 120GB the hard drive still offers plenty of storage space.

  However, the new machine just comes out on top. The slimmer, shinier design is impressively modern and high-tech looking. Extra features like the built-in Wi-Fi adapter, bigger hard drive and dedicated Kinect port help to give the 250GB model the edge.

  So if you've already got an Xbox 360, it's well worth considering an upgrade. If you haven't, and the latest technology and sleekest stylings are important to you, the 250GB console is the one to go for. Or, if the size and built-in wi-Fi aren't an issue for you, then a 250 GB Super Elite could be the ideal compromise. The choice is yours!

• Buyer's Guide: Xbox 360

  Xbox 360
  Action-packed online gaming fun!

  Who's it best for?

  Home to many of gaming's top franchises and boasting the Xbox Live service, Xbox 360 is the serious player's pick for competitive action gaming.

  If you're looking for a decent family console, don't be put off by the Xbox's hard-core reputation. The Xbox has family settings, which allows you to regulate what games and DVDs your kids can play and watch on and offline.

  Plus there are hundreds of terrific games for kids aged 3 and up.

  Best Bits

  
  

  Two words: Xbox Live.

  Xbox Live is an online service which allows you to compete with gamers all over the world. In addition, the service allows you to:

  • download games, updates and movies,
  • access free game demos so you can try before you buy,
  • enjoy early and exclusive game content,
  • take part in voice and video chat,
  • access Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm Radio and Zune Video,
  • keep track of all your in-game achievements so that Xbox Live match you with other gamers of the same skill level,
  • look forward to live TV streaming via the all new Sky Player,
  • plus much, much more besides!

  What's more, the Xbox 360 also has the biggest choice of games, appealing to people of all ages and abilities. See GAMES

  Worst Bits

  
  

  Additional costs.
  Xbox Live membership starts at around 0 per year. Plus, the Sky TV packages will be subscription based too.

  No built-in Web browser
  This means you can't surf the net in the traditional sense. I know, I know - it's confusing. But Xbox LIVE isn't a Web browser; it's a special application designed by Xbox which requires Internet access. That said; you can still access Twitter and Facebook via Xbox LIVE.

  Not as easy as the Wii
  At the moment, Xbox isn't as easy to pick up and play as the Wii. The controls aren't as intuitive, and require a little more dexterity and practice. However there are some exciting new innovations in the pipeline which Xbox hope to change all that.

  Bonus Extras

  
  

  Xbox LIVE. Need I say more? See WHY BUY?

  Online Features

  
  

  Xbox Live is NOT FREE. It's a subscription based service. Xbox Live Gold Membership will cost you in the region of 0 per year. Xbox Live Silver Membership won't cost you a penny, but you don't get access to all the good stuff that makes Xbox Live worthwhile.

  Silver Membership
  Xbox LIVE Silver is a free service that allows any Xbox 360 user with a broadband connection to get online and interact with the Xbox LIVE community.

  • Gamer profile: Showcase your achievements for all your friends to see.
  • Avatar: Share the customized Avatar that represents your online identity.
  • Friends list: Add other Xbox LIVE users to your friends list and chat using the headset or send text messages.
  • Marketplace: Download free content from Marketplace such as demos, trailers, music videos, dashboard themes, and lots more.
  • Microsoft Points: Redeem Microsoft Points (available at retail stores or through Xbox LIVE) for extra game content, Arcade games, movies and TV shows, independent videos, and more.

  Gold Membership
  Xbox LIVE Gold is a premium membership that lets you compete with other gamers across the globe. Gold membership includes all the features of Silver plus a whole lot more:

  • Multiplayer games: Invite your friends into a multiplayer match and compete against each other or play co-op through expansive adventures.
  • Marketplace: Gold members get early and exclusive access to select game add-ons, demos, trailers, videos, and more.
  • TrueSkill matchmaking: For every ranked game you play, TrueSkill finds someone of the right skill level for you to compete against.
  • Parties: Invite a group of friends into an Xbox Live Party; to join in games and chat together.
  • Gamer feedback: Use the feedback system to select players you want to play with (or avoid) the next time you're online.
  • Watch Netflix movies: Xbox LIVE Gold members who also belong to Netflix can watch Netflix's extensive library of streaming movies and TV shows right on their console at no additional charge.

  What do you need to get online?
  The simplest way to get hooked up is to purchase an Xbox LIVE Starter Kit which comes with everything you need to jump in and explore everything Xbox Live has to offer! Once you've got this, simply go to the dashboard, follow the onscreen instructions and you're A for Away. In order to get your Xbox online you will need a Broadband Internet connection.

  Buying games online:
  Purchase games using Microsoft points or a credit card. Games are downloaded directly to your console and your purchase history is stored by Xbox LIVE, meaning you can delete games and re-download them again if you run out of space. Microsoft points can be purchased through Xbox LIVE Marketplace or in your local GAME store.

  Essential Accessories

  
  

  Whilst not essential, having the right accessories can really enhance your gaming experience. Here are some of the key accessories our Xbox Xperts recommend for enhanced game play:

  • Xbox 360 Wireless Adaptor.
    Unlike the PS3 the Xbox 360 doesn't come with built-in wireless broadband compatibility. This handy little adaptor will ensure you can move your console anywhere in the house and still play online using Xbox LIVE via your home network.
  • Faceplates.
    Personalise your gaming experience with an Xbox faceplate. Change your faces whenever you like to match your personality or your mood.
  • Memory Unit.
    Xbox 360 Memory Units allow you to save your in-game achievements and unique gamer profiles and carry them around with you. Just plug it in and save away.
  • Xbox 360 Wireless Controller.
    The Xbox 360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on two AA batteries.
  • Headsets.
    The Xbox 360 Headset heightens the experience of the Xbox LIVE online gaming community, allowing you to strategize with team mates or just chat with friends while playing your favourite games.
  • Chat pad.
    This bolts onto the bottom of your Wireless Controller and allows you to type messages to friends on MSN while playing games.

  You'll find GAME's full range of Xbox accessories here.

  Games

  
  

  Xbox boast one of the most comprehensive game catalogues in the industry, with games to suit everyone.

  Summary

  
  

  This is an ideal cross over console; great for families but equally brilliant for serious and competitive gamers too.

  
  
  
• New Xbox will be revealed on May 21st

  If you've been enjoying the thick soup of rumour that's been swirling around the next Xbox console, it's time to reach for a crusty roll and start mopping up - Microsoft has set a date for the official reveal: May 21st. You've got until then to savour those last few spoonfuls of frenzied speculation. After that, it's on to the main course of delicious fact-steak drizzled with anticipation sauce.

  For some, the next generation can't come soon enough. This year marks the Xbox 360's eighth birthday, which makes it positively mature ages in console years. To put it in perspective, when the 360 launched in November 2005, there was no such thing as an iPhone or iPad, Twitter was still something that canaries did and Facebook was an obscure website exclusively for American college kids.

  Obviously the world has changed but how will Microsoft respond to the new landscape? An improved Kinect sensor will be built into the console, reckon some. It'll require an internet connection at all times and will block second hand games, say others.

  Back in 2005, Microsoft managed to get a head start on SONY by launching the 360 way ahead of the PlayStation 3. This time around, it's SONY that has beaten Microsoft to the punch, revealing the features of the PlayStation 4, if not the actual console itself, earlier this year.

  Microsoft has kept quiet so far, but now we know there's less than a month to go before everyone will have their cards on the table. Then the real fun begins.

  Published: 25/04/2013

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