The Triangle

Issue date: 11/2/07 Section: Arts & Entertainment

Microsoft decided to retire the core system and replace it with a new Xbox Arcade System. The Xbox Arcade System is almost like the core system but includes five arcade games, 256 MB memory card, and wireless controller.

The Xbox 360 has an HD-DVD addition, which allows the Xbox to play 1080p movies. The problem is that this HD-DVD player has to be bought as a separate accessory; it is not included with the console.

The Xbox 360, unlike the other two consoles, has major problems with hardware. Microsoft had to extend its warranty for the Xbox in order to deal with the problems. The biggest concern was scratching game disks, making them unusable.

The Xbox 360, unlike both next-gen consoles, has a larger variety of games, and these have a great replay value. The best game for the console currently is Halo 3. According to G4tv.com, Halo 3 boosted Xbox 360 sales to outsell the Wii, selling 170 million on the first day in the U.S.

Another good feature of the Xbox 360 is Xbox Live. Xbox Live is the best online system of all three consoles. It links friends really well and has easy to track stats as well as achievements of the player. After two years, the Xbox 360 system is well established and thriving.

Wii

This system is the hottest selling system. Many stores sell out of them the instant they receive a shipment.

The Wii is unique because of the new controllers that make games more interactive. The remote-like controller has to be the most interactive controller to date. It can "change" into a gun or a wheel or even a stick. The additional controllers that are added to the bottom of the Wii remote create a new way to play games. You are not restricted to only one remote.

The graphics for the Wii are not as outstanding compared to the other consoles. At a maximum of 480p, the Wii displays at enhanced television. The only problem with the Wii is the lack of replayable games. There are some good games such as Metroid Prime 3: Corruption and Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. However, these games are boring once they are completely beaten. The Wii does have some upcoming games that will change the Wii's replay value. The upcoming Super Smash Brothers Brawl, which is coming out on Feb. 10 (after being delayed), seems like a game that might even compete with Halo 3 for selling the most copies on the first day release.

The Wii Fit also looks like an interesting addition since the game is set-up to be a fitness instructor without the extra costs. The Wii seems to be doing fine except more time is necessary for it to grow into a better console.

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It just seems like more time is necessary for the consoles to see better days. One major problem that is consistent with the next-gen consoles is the lack of games, especially for the PS3 and Wii. One problem is that they have not had enough time compared to the Xbox 360. Try them out before buying; everyone has a different idea of what makes a video game fun.

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