The Xbox is possibly the most familiar console video gaming device on the market to consumers. It is rumored that Bill Gates had its release delayed for years in order to include every bit of available technology to make it the ultimate gaming machine and something that everyone would want. Computers and the internet have increased the attractiveness of online gaming over console game to many game fans, so a lot of effort was necessary to boost the console concept. The Xbox was finally released to the world in late 2001.

Contained within the console are a basic computer chip, and several options for AV connections. The X-box is compatible with standard AV cables, RF connecters, TOSLINK audio, S-Video, SCART and HD devices. It can connect to the Internet through ethernet, a modem or a wireless router. The device can also interact with a PC, which greatly expands the potential for gaming, and it also can act as a music player, a mixer or a karaoke device. Separate accessories give it DVD playing capacities 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.

Some games disable the memory card function to prevent cheating, but of course some Xbox addicts find hacks to get around some of the protections. One of the huge draws is the availability of an online multiplayer gaming service that lets a gamer play with anyone else who owns this console anywhere in the world. Instead of competing with games online, they just joined in.

The price points for the game have been controversial. Europeans claim to have been charged twice as much as Americans, and newer versions have also been released with inflated prices. Other complaints, similar to those against other game consoles, have focused on violence and other objectionable content within the individual games released.

Purchasing an Xbox provides an incredible range of entertainment possibilities for children and adults. Prices have become much lower, and games themselves are often traded or sold used at a great discount. It remains a much desired holiday or birthday gift and many homes have more than one.

The Xbox is one of the most familiar console video gaming devices on the market. 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 new had to be introduced. This new console includes both a basic computer chip and numerous options for AV connections, and it is compatible with standard high definition device.