Xbox

With rapidfire loading times, out-of-the-package online support and graphics so hot you'll need sunglasses, Microsoft's Xbox  owned the hardcore gamer front from 2001 to 2006. The box may be bulkier than the other systems, but that's because it's crammed with everything a gamer would want. Even the console's sequel, the Xbox 360,  hasn't been able to blow its predecessor out of the water just yet.

What Rox

• This thing is so powerful, uncivilized societies regard it as a god.
• The built-in hard drive is a life-saver. No memory card hassles.
• Online gaming is where its at, and the Xbox Live subscription service offers amazing action at just a few dollars a month. No other system has got the spectacular Halo 2. 

What Sux

• The original Xbox controller is a gnarly piece of machinery. It's so heavy you'll need soloflexed wrists to handle extensive action.
• Takes up more entertainment center real estate than the PS2  or GameCube. 

Also in the Mix

• The PS2's online action isn't as well structured, but at least it's free.
• Microsoft has abandoned its firstborn in favor of the Xbox 360 and no longer makes games for the console.

Spex

• 733 MHz Intel processor, 64 MB of RAM. Translation: it's smarter than you.
• Built-in 8 gigabyte hard drive.
• Most games are online compatible.
• Sweet looks are powered by a Nvidia graphics card. 

X-cessories

• Remote Control Kit 
• Wireless Controller 
• Advanced AV Pack 

The Pioneer HTS-GS1  Surround Sound system, which was made specifically for XBox, lets you feel like you are right in the middle of the action. Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 surround sound processors 600W RMS total power AM/FM tuner LED display Multiple inputs Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration autosetup. Automatically calibrates speakers to the sonic needs of your room. Front Stage Surround Sound Realistic surround sound system experience with all speakers placed in the front of the room. Compatible with XBox Live voice chat. Compact design matches XBox. Universal XBox 360 compatible remote control.

Essential games

• Halo 2 
• Ninja Gaiden Black 
• Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Chaos Theory 
• Burnout 3: Takedown 
• Grand Theft Auto Double Pack 
• Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time 
• Forza Motorsport 
• Project Gotham Racing 2 
• Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 
• Half-Life 2 
• Madden NFL 2005 
• ESPN NFL 2K5 
• Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2004 

External links

• Xbox.com -- Microsoft's official site.
• Xbox hacks -- Check out the latest hacks and modifications to the Xbox.
• Joystiq -- A hot video game blog.
• GameZone reviews -- Reviews of Xbox games.

Related Products
Xbox Games	Xbox 360	Xbox 360 Games	Xbox Controllers	Xbox Carrying Case