Xbox 360

The Xbox 360 was the successor to the original Xbox and Microsoft’s second video game console. Officially announced in 2005, it was developed to compete directly with Sony’s PlayStation 3 and Nintendo’s Wii. With a focus on online services, high-definition gaming, and a wide range of accessories, the Xbox 360 became one of the most popular consoles of its generation.

Microsoft heavily invested in Xbox Live, its online gaming platform, offering subscription services like Xbox Live Gold, as well as features such as game downloads, demos, movies, and additional content. The console underwent several hardware revisions throughout its lifecycle, including the Xbox 360 Elite, Xbox 360 S, and Xbox 360 E models.

General Information

  • Console names: Xbox 360
  • Release date: November 22, 2005 (North America), December 2, 2005 (Europe), December 10, 2005 (Japan), December 1, 2006 (Brazil)
  • Original price: $299 (Core), $399 (Premium); R$ 2,999 (Brazil)
  • Country of origin: United States
  • Manufacturer: Microsoft (officially represented in Brazil by Microsoft Brasil)
  • Primary media: DVD (with support for HD-DVD via external accessory)
  • Units sold: Approximately 84 million
  • Predecessor: Xbox
  • Successor: Xbox One
  • Backward compatibility: Partial with original Xbox games (via software emulation)

Technical Information

The Xbox 360 was a powerful console for its time, featuring:

  • Processor: IBM PowerPC Xenon, three cores running at 3.2 GHz
  • GPU: ATI Xenos at 500 MHz
  • RAM: 512 MB GDDR3
  • Storage: Models ranged from 4GB to 500GB internal HDD
  • Video resolution: Supports HD (720p, 1080i, 1080p)
  • Video outputs: Composite, component, HDMI (in later models)
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (in Slim and E models), Ethernet port, three USB 2.0 ports

Accessories and Special Controllers

The Xbox 360 had a variety of accessories and special controllers:

  • Xbox 360 Wireless Controller: The main controller with a wireless connection and ergonomic design.
  • Kinect: Motion sensor launched in 2010, enabling controller-free gaming.
  • HD DVD Player: External accessory for HD DVD movie playback.
  • Rechargeable Battery and Play & Charge Kit: Allowed wireless controllers to charge during use.
  • Headset: For Xbox Live communication.
  • Arcade Stick: Special controller for fighting games.

Impact and Legacy

The Xbox 360 was crucial in establishing Microsoft’s foothold in the console market. It succeeded due to exclusives like Halo 3, Gears of War, Forza Motorsport, and Fable II, alongside its strong multiplayer support via Xbox Live.

However, the console faced technical issues, notably the “Red Ring of Death” (RROD), an overheating failure that led to an extensive warranty and replacement program.

Despite these issues, the Xbox 360 defined a generation and set standards for online console interaction, influencing its successors.

Curiosities

  • The first Microsoft console officially sold in Brazil.
  • Xbox Live Arcade popularized indie games and remastered classics.
  • Some models were compatible with Windows Media Center for content streaming.
  • The Kinect became one of the best-selling motion capture devices in history.

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