In the realm of video game consoles, the Xbox is one of the most well-known. It was alleged that Bill Gates, head of Microsoft, delayed the release of the XBox for many years so as to incorporate as many technological features as possible and to drive up consumer demand. Computers as well as the Internet have made online gaming a more preferable platform than console games to many consumers, so the idea of a console that could interface with the Internet was desirable. The XBox was finally released to market in late 2001.

The console contains a basic computer chip and has multiple options for AV connections. It is compatible with standard AV cable, the RF connecter, TOSLINK audio and S-Video, SCART, and High Definition devices. The Xbox connect to Ethernet cable to a modem or router or as a wireless link. It can interface with a PC which greatly expands gaming potential and also has music capability as a player, a mixer or for karaoke. Accessories make it usable as a DVD player as well.

Displaying innovations far removed from those of earlier generations of game consoles, the XBox 360 controllers are packed with a diverse variety of useful options and functions for the console. The new Xbox 360 controller displays more similarities with the control panel of a small plane than with that of similar game consoles. The controller comes in alternates models with such diverse features as a directional touch pad, six action buttons and slots for accessories. The controller even has a dock for memory card access, so that games can be saved for later play.

It is common to find that games will disable the memory card to prevent users from activating cheating patches, but that inevitably leads to Xbox players resorting to hacks to sidestep such tactics. An online multi player gaming service which lets a player play with other players worldwide can be a huge draw. This allows you to show your skills against other players instead of merely against the computer.

There has been controversy over pricing for this game, with Europe complain that they were being overcharged as much as 100% over the US prices, and new version releases also have had inflated prices. Other complaints have centered on the content and violence of individual game releases. This also has been the same for other brands of similar game consoles.

An Xbox is a great way to provide entertainment possibilities for kids and adults. The prices of the system have gone down and many games are traded and sold at a discount. It still remains one of the most desired gifts for holidays or birthdays and many households have more then one system.

The Xbox is one of the most familiar console video gaming devices. Bill Gates is rumored to have delayed its release for several years to include every bell and whistle of available technology to make it the ultimate gaming machine and one that everyone would want. Computers and the internet have made online gaming more attractive than console games to many game fans, so something was needed to boost the console concept. There has been controversy over pricing for this game, with Europe complain that they were being overcharged as much as 100% over the US prices, and new version releases also have had inflated prices.

- Bruno Auger