Microsoft to extend warranty against red rings of death to 3 years

Microsoft is extending the hardware warranty of Xbox 360 consoles to those experiencing the red rings of death, signifying the consoles transformation into an expensive brick. If you or someone you know has had issues with their Xbox 360 have them contact Microsoft to get it straightened out before the extended warranty ends.

Link to Ars Technica | Microsoft to extend warranty against red rings of death to 3 years

Xbox 360 Elite Review

If you've been tempted to go out an replace or get your own Xbox 360 Elite, you would be wise to first read Ars Technica's review fo the so-called "elite" console.

Here's a summary of what you'll get over the traditional Xbox 360 Premium system (in order of value):

• 120 GB Hard drive (for storing more Xbox Live Marketplace content)
• HDMI Output (one cable to support high-definition audio and video)
• Black (yes, it's black instead of white)
• Elite price tag (the Elite costs $180 more)
• Bragging rights
  

Here's a summary of what they missed:

• Wireless
• HD-DVD built-in drive
• Quieter and cooler console

Link to Xbox 360 Elite Review

BetaNews | Halo 3 Beta Set to Start May 16

BetaNews | Halo 3 Beta Set to Start May 16


Halo fans rejoice! You too can beta test the upcoming iteration of the Halo franchise Halo 3 beginning May 16. Read the article to find out how you can join the beta test.

Xbox 360 Update Available

Microsoft has a released an update to the Xbox 360 to this's Xbox Live service today to fix some problems it has been having with 1080p resolutions, VGA connections, and wired headsets on wireless controllers.

From Engadget

Ars Technica Wii-view: A review of the Nintendo Wii

If you are shopping for a gaming console for you or a loved one this season you may want to read Ars Technica's review of the Nintendo Wii. The price is right, and the features are revolutionary.

Other reviews:
Sony Playstation 3
Microsoft Xbox 360

A Weekend for Gamers

This weekend marked a milestone for gamers in North America as Sony and Nintendo launched their next generation game consoles.

A Bit of History
Nintendo once dominated the gaming industry with its NES and Super NES systems. While there was some competition from the Sega consoles, Nintendo held their domination until the Sony Playstation came out. Utilizing optical discs (CD's) instead of gaming cartridges allowed the Playstation to move into a whole new era of gaming. Nintendo decided to stick with the cartridges for the N64 console, but by that time the Playstation 2 entered the market which brought DVD-based games for better graphics. Since then Sony had their corner on the market until Microsoft decided to enter the console business. No one could have predicted that a gaming console based on Microsoft technologies called the Xbox could have been so successful being so late in the game (pun intended).

Next-generation Consoles
Microsoft decided to be the first to launch the next generation console which would eventually feature more online features and most importantly high definition gaming when they released the Xbox 360 just in time for the holidays in 2005. People stood in lines for days to get their own Xbox 360. Now a year later Nintendo and Sony have been gearing up to release the Nintendo Wii and Sony Playstation 3 just before Christmas 2006. Again desperate gamers and profiteers stood side by side for days, some in inclement weather, to purchase their own Playstation 3 for $500 and their Nintendo Wii for $250. Both consoles were sold out on the first day of availability, and both manufacturers promise another shipment in about two weeks.

See the consoles side-by-side.

The Playstation 3 and the Xbox 360 are gearing towards high-definition gaming while the Wii is focusing on whole new way of interactivity with video games using motion sensing controllers. All three companies are looking to be the device that provides you with the content you want right at your TV including video games, online content, and digital downloads.

Microsoft Xbox 360
Sony Playstation 3
Nintendo Wii