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Week of November 12, 2006
Microsoft Refuses To Acknowledge Wireless Headset Flaws
>> From xblradio.com:
[QUOTE]
If you are one of the 360 owners who bought a wireless headset and cannot get it to work, you are not alone. It seems that many 360 wireless-headset owners are having trouble being heard! (even with their headsets on)
Issues such as: constant communication drops, excessive beeping during conversations, clarity of dialogue during chats, and a very small line-of-sight area have made the headset more of a hassle than a conveinience. Many consumers of the headset have tried, to no avail, to get support on their headset woes. So far MS has yet to acknowledge that the headset is causing a lot of consumer woes. One website, 2 old 2 play, even posted a story about their quest to get support from MS. However, in reading the article it seems we at XBLR are not alone.
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Read More: xblradio.com and 2old2play.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Gates on PS3 vs. Xbox 360
>> CNet News.com's Ina Fried interviewed Bill Gates on topics including Zune, Office 2007, Windows Vista, and Novell (part1/part2). There's one short mention of the Xbox 360:
[QUOTE]
* There's obviously one other big product for the holidays in terms of things that you guys make--XBox 360. You did get the year's head start this time. There still seems to be pretty strong critical acclaim and demand for PlayStation 3. How do you see that?
* Gates: I wouldn't change positions with them in a million years. I mean, we know what it's like to be a year late. We feel great about the position that we're in. And, of course, they're going to sell a lot in Japan.
You know, Sony can make 80,000 bricks, and people would buy them. So the real competition--you're going to see the impact of our innovation and all the momentum we have in Christmas 2007. This Christmas, the story is: XBox 360 is going to sell super-well, and they'll sell the rounding error amounts they can make.
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Read More: part1/part2
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Gears of War Most Awaited Holiday Title
>> From gamasutra.com:
[QUOTE]
Toronto-headquartered research firm BrandIntel has released a study ranking consumer excitement and anticipation for games this holiday season, revealing Epic's Xbox 360 exclusive Gears of War as the top title.
The study, simply titled "Top 50 Video Games Report", captured data from both online and human analysis from January 1, 2006 to October 31, 2006 for over 1,200 titles, including those available or otherwise announced for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii. The games were broken down in terms of audience interest and sentiment score, and then subsequently ranked.
Besides Gears of War, Nintendo's Wii launch title The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess ranked next in terms of consumer interest, followed by Madden NFL 07 and Microsoft's hotly anticipated Halo 3. The recently shipped multiplatform action RPG Marvel: Ultimate Alliance came in as fifth on the chart ahead of Fight Night Round 3 and Call of Duty 3, which ranked in the following two positions.
Ubisoft's PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 stealth action title Assassin's Creed was eighth on the chart, followed by Sony's PlayStation 3 launch title Resistance: Fall of Man and skateboarding sequel Tony Hawk's Project 8.
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Read More: gamasutra.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Wireless Racing Wheel Review
>> From xboxcanadianlive.com:
[QUOTE]
Overall, PGR3 was the best experience with the wheel, and obviously the upcoming stunner Forza 2 will take the experience to the next level.
So is the wheel worth the money? I would say right now if you can't stop thinking about it go out and get it. Playing through PGR3 should be an entirely new experience plus you will be ready once the 800 pound gorilla aka Forza 2 hits shelves next year. Results with other unsupported games are mixed right now (for instance, I have no idea how it would feel playing Burnout with the wheel) but its fun to experiment.
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Read the whole review on xboxcanadianlive.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
New SmartXX v3 Set Available: Extreme Version
>> From Team SmartXX:
[QUOTE]
The SmartXX V3 is now available in the Extreme Version, including :
* SmartXX V3
* CD
* USB Adapter
* Spider (Solderless Adapter)
* RGB-LED Cable Set
* Display PCB
* Install Material
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.smartxx.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox Owners Ready to Upgrade
>> From xbox360.ign.com:
[QUOTE]
The next-generation console wars are on and market research group eMarketer has some insight into how things might shake out. A brand loyalty poll among current-gen console owners showed that 60 percent of PlayStation 2 owners plan to buy a PlayStation 3, while only 46 and 45 percent of Xbox and GameCube owners, respectively, plan on buying the updates to their current systems.
A second poll reveals that while Sony may enjoy the most brand loyalty, PS2 owners aren't necessarily the most likely to buy a next-gen console in the next year.
It's possible the reason Xbox and GameCube owners are looking to upgrade more quickly is because their systems have been, for all intents and purposes, "dead" for a while now. In the meantime, the PS2 is still going strong, with several AAA titles ready to carry it through this holiday season.
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Read More: xbox360.ign.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XBMC PC environment for skinners and python developers
>> From xboxmediacenter.com:
[QUOTE]
A little over a month ago, I was away from home without the xbox and still wanted to get some development done. To solve this problem, I decided to port parts of XBMC to the PC.
Now, before everyone starts getting too excited, let's make some things clear:
1. It's not a full port, nor is it planned to be a full port. We are not planning on abandoning the xbox anytime soon.
2. With that said, most stuff works - at least stuff useful for the target audience.
3. It's designed primarily for skinners and python developers who can test out their skins and scripts without having to transfer everything to the xbox.
Okay, so with that out of the way, what is it?
Basically, it's a simple port of the majority of XBMC. This includes the entire gui system, file listing, some of the filesystem code (eg local, database files, zip + rar etc.), very simple audio playback, slideshows, python scripts and so on. Video playback is not supported, nor are screensavers or visualisations (basically anything that was relying on the xbox version of directx).
The source code is available in SVN and requires the directx sdk (I use the Summer 2004 version) installed to build the executable. You do not require the XDK. The executable that it produces may be distributed freely - it contains no XDK code whatsoever.
To run it, you basically just grab a full build of the usual xbox version of XBMC, place it somewhere on your PC, and replace the .xbe with XBMC_PC.exe. Note that you'll need a DirectX 8 compatible machine. Most graphics cards nowadays should be fine, but some older chipsets may have issues.
You then have to mount some drives so that the executable knows where to find stuff. You use the subst command under DOS to do so. I use the following .bat file:
[CODE]
subst q: c:\xbmc_pc
subst t: q:\userdata
subst p: q:\userdata
subst z: c:\xbmc_pc\cache
[/CODE]
Obviously you just change the location of q: and z: to reflect wherever you want them. Note that p: is the "profile" directory, and should point to your profile folder if you are not the master user.
That's about it. It logs exactly the same as XBMC does, so if you get errors, it's likely logged about them.
We're not supporting general users running this to play their mp3's or whatever - but we'll be happy to help get skinners and python devs up and running, as that is the target audience.
Ofcourse, others may feel free to have a play all they like. If there's any Win32 developers listening in, then you are free to download the source from SVN and help extend it in anyway you like. One immediate improvement would be to have the executable auto-mount the drives it needs.
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Official Site: http://www.xboxmediacenter.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox 360 HD-DVD Player Memory
>> From majornelson.com:
[QUOTE]
If you have picked up the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player you have probably noticed that in addition to the unbelievable picture and sound quality, you now have 'HD DVD' as a new storage device section under Memory on your System Blade of your Xbox 360's Dashboard. I have gotten a few emails asking me what this is and more specifically if it can be used to store game content, arcade titles etc. The answer is you can't. You can only delete items from this memory area, not add them. In fact, games won't even 'see' this area...so for the most part you'll never come across it, but I wanted to explain exactly WHAT this area is. This memory area is part of the HD DVD spec and it only accessible by the Xbox 360 HD DVD player when using the advanced features of the HD DVD format. For example, if you lay down any bookmarks from the HD DVD's that you rent from from Netflix, then you'll use the Memory section of the System blade to delete that content, since it would stand to reason that you don't need the information again since you rented the disc. Unfortunately, none of the current HD DVD's properly tag their data..so for the short term all you'll see is 'Unknown Title.' Remember: Not every HD DVD has the same advanced features, so check the back of the HD DVD packaging (Example) to see what each title supports.
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Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Strategy Analytics: Microsoft Has It All To Prove
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
Sony launches its PlayStation 3 games system in the US this Friday, but Microsoft's Xbox 360 is facing even greater pressure to produce a strong holiday season, according to the latest report from Strategy Analytics. To meet its target, the Redmond, WA, giant must sell four million consoles over the gift-buying season.
"Sony will sell everything it can make of its new system," notes David Mercer, Principal Analyst. "But Microsoft has already had a year in the market to cream off early adopters, so the next few weeks will demonstrate how much pent-up demand there really is for the Xbox 360, and how many disappointed PS3 buyers are willing to switch camps."
The report predicts global sales of nearly 9 million next-generation games consoles during the last quarter of 2006. The Xbox 360 will remain the leading system through most of 2007 but the PS3 will be catching up by the end of the year and is still set to become the dominant platform of the next generation.
Cumulative Sales 2005-2012 - Millions Units
* Sony PS3: 121.8
* Microsoft Xbox 360: 59.7
* Nintendo Revolution: 23.3
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Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XBoxMediaCenter moves support to Freenode and switches to Subversion
>> From xboxmediacenter.com:
[QUOTE]
Team XBMC is in the process of moving our support channel (#XBMC on EFnet) across to the Freenode IRC network. This is to bring us in line with other similar applications (such as MediaPortal) and also because it's lower maintenance for the ops.
Everyone is encouraged to move to Freenode (#XBMC) as soon as possible. Those unfamiliar with Freenode should be aware of a few differences, the main one being that on Freenode you are encouraged to register your nickname. See here for more details..
The old channel (#XBMC on EFnet) will be maintained for a week or two until everyone has moved over, whereby it will cease to exist.
Due to the superiority of using Subversion (SVN) over CVS, Team XBMC has also decided to move to SVN. This allows better management of the development of XBMC.
In the last few days, we have finished the migration to SVN, and now CVS will no longer be updated. This means everyone who checked out XBMC sources and wishes to continue to do so, will have to install another client and do a complete recheckout.
We recommend using TortoiseSVN. TortoiseSVN is very easy to configure. After it is installed, simply:
1) Rightclick the folder where you want XBMC source folders & files to be downloaded.
2) Choose: 'SVN Checkout'.
3) Enter 'https://svn.sourceforge.net/svnroot/xbmc/trunk/XBMC' as "URL of repository".
4) Hit OK.
To update in future just use 'SVN Update'.
Note that the main trunk of SVN, where the main development work is done should be considered pre-2.1. The 2.0.1 source tree is tagged in SVN and no more development work will be done in it as we move forward towards 2.1.
Please don't ask about release dates for 2.1 - we are currently in full feature addition mode. Expect more announcements shortly of a few of the changes :)
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Official Site: http://www.xboxmediacenter.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Mad Catz Xbox Live Arcade GameStick Update
>> From teamxbox.com:
[QUOTE]
Mad Catz sent us today the first official pictures and fact sheet of its upcoming Xbox 360 Arcade GameStick for Xbox Live Arcade. The product's description reads as follow:
With its unique styling full size joystick and spinner control, the Mad Catz Arcade GameStick for Xbox 360 provides the best gaming experience for Xbox Live Arcade. Officially licensed by Microsoft, the sleek design compliments your Xbox 360 console and allows for new gaming experiences. The joystick and thumbstick are interchangeable, making Mad Catz ArcadeStick perfect for either left handed or right handed gamers. Take the Xbox Live Arcade gaming experience to the next level with the Mad Catz ArcadeStick for Xbox 360.
According to EB Games listings, the Mad Catz Arcade GameStick is scheduled for release on December 5, 2006.
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Read More: teamxbox.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
(USA) Want a Core Xbox 360 for 100usd? Vote!
>> From 1up.com:
[QUOTE]
If waiting in line for a PlayStation 3 or scrounging around for an available Wii doesn't sound too appealing, would Xbox 360 Core systems at $100 a pop sound better? Amazon.com's willing to offer 1,000 of these little puppies -- if enough customers vote for it. They're holding an ol' fashioned voting contest between a variety of items with killer deals and while Xbox 360 clearly has the best price, Amazon will also be offering the fewest units compared to the other options.
[/QUOTE]
Note: at time of writing the Xbox360 is the clear winner with over 85% of the votes.
News-Source: 1up.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XCM XFPS 360 - First Picture
Texter Enables In-game Messaging from Controller
>> From teamxbox.com:
[QUOTE]
Blue Orb, a company dedicated to the development of advanced input systems, announced today the Blue Orb's Texter, a device that plugs in between the Xbox 360 and the controller to enable in-game messaging without the need of a full QWERTY keyboard or the on-screen keyboard provided by the Xbox 360 dashboard.
You need to apply two rings that come with the Texter, each one fit right around the thumbsticks. One have eight colored zones, the other has eight zones, each one holding four letters from the alphabet.
To type a letter, you select with the left thumbstick the color of the zone that has that letter and then with the right thumbstick you select the area.
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Read More: teamxbox.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Zoozen Access Pro Tool Kit
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
A bad man workman can never blame his tools anymore, thanks to the Zoozen 'Access Pro Tool Kit'! The only product on the market to feature every possible set of tools for both current generation and next generation handheld and video game consoles. Not only is the Pro Tool Kit a versatile gateway into some serious customization, but it also includes a range of totally unique and custom tools which tuning fans will not find anywhere else.
The Access Pro Tool Kit has tools which fully support the following systems:
* Microsoft Xbox and Xbox 360 - Full support for the Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles, Xbox 360 wired and wireless controllers, and even some third party controllers. Specialist tools include the 'OneSnap, a unique one-piece Xbox 360 case opener and a special long neck tamper resistant Torx bit.
* Nintendo Products - Full support for Gamecube, GBA, DS, DS Lite units and even accessories such as Nintendo cartridges and power supplies. Specialist tools include Triwing bits in two sizes and rare Linehead Nut Setters available in two sizes.
* Sony Products - Supported systems include the PS2, PS2 SLIM, the PSP and accessories such as the controllers.
The extensive set of tools is housed in a highly durable branded Zoozen case which will ensure longevity of the tool set. Duplicates of most bits are provided as even the most skilled professionals can sometimes misplace or drop a tool during a critical procedure.
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Official Site: http://www.zoozen.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Merrill Lynch: Xbox 360 To Win Next-Gen Battle Through 2011
>> From gamasutra.com:
[QUOTE]
Yoshiyuki Kinoshita's, research analyst for Merrill Lynch, research note revealed: "We forecast respective market shares [in March 2011] of Xbox 360 [at] 39 percent, PS3 [at] 34 percent and Wii [at] 27 percent, thus overturning Sony's domination of the market with its PS2-based share of 69 percent, and doubling Microsoft and Nintendo's respective market shares."
Kinoshita clearly believes that no one company will dominate all territories however, suggesting that Sony will still have 57% of the console market share in Japan by that date, with Nintendo's Wii at 39% and an unspecified small percentage for the Xbox 360.
However, it is his prediction for the North America market that is most startling and perhaps debatable, with his suggestion Microsoft will have 50% market share by 2011, of while the PlayStation 3 has just 27% and the Nintendo Wii 23%.
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Read More: gamasutra.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Maximus Xtreme v1.6 Firmware for Hitachi-LG v0078
>> Maximus (Carranzafp) released a new version of his modified (Xtreme) firmware for the Xbox360 Hitachi-LG GDR-3120L v0078 DVD-drive:
[QUOTE]
What's new in this release:
* Changed Boot order to allow some newer Original games boot without problem (Ver 1.6)
This release has been FULLY TESTED ON A 78 DRIVE!!!
*If it doesn't works for you maybe you messed something on the drive PCB or flash chip.*
Boot of originals was tested with an Original of Gears of War that was not booting on v1.5 rev 2 and now boots fine with v1.6. Backups are not affected.
FEATURES:
* ModeB when poweron with tray open
* Media Detection V2
* Xtreme 800 to load backups
* No F900 core, maybe later
* No Firmware Stealth (maybe not needed anymore with this one)
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: n/a (by Maximus/Carranzafp)
Download: n/a (might be illegal under DMCA/EUCD)
News-Source: xbins.org
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Halo turns 5 too ... Halo3 demo Spring 2007, Halo 3 ad, Halo2 Maps
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
On the fifth anniversary of the release of the landmark Xbox video game "Halo," Microsoft Game Studios and Bungie Studios today celebrated the milestone by announcing an exclusive hands-on experience with "Halo 3," one of the industry's most anticipated sequels. The Xbox Live multiplayer public beta, which is a pre-release version of the multiplayer experience of "Halo 3," is scheduled for availability in spring 2007 exclusively on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system.
In addition, Microsoft Game Studios and Bungie confirmed today that consumers will be able to experience the "Halo" universe this holiday season through a one-time airing of a stirring, 60-second "Halo 3" teaser ad. Finally, it was announced that new, premium downloadable content for "Halo 2," exclusive to Xbox 360, is scheduled for release in spring 2007.
On Dec. 4, the special 60-second "Halo 3" advertising spot will be broadcast, one time only, on ESPN's "Monday Night Football." The ad, created by advertising agency McCann Erickson, will provide viewers with a unique and compelling look at Master Chief and the world of "Halo 3." It is easily one of the most anticipated ads of the year and promises to be the biggest event in appointment advertising this year. It underscores the innovative approach and driving influence the "Halo" franchise has commanded. The television spot will also be available for download exclusively for Xbox 360 users via Xbox Live Marketplace.
In addition, gamers who have jumped in to Xbox 360 will be able to join legions of Xbox fans next spring in all-new multiplayer maps for "Halo 2" available for download through Xbox Live Marketplace. The exclusive "Halo 2" content will bring new experiences and excitement to the seminal sequel that made entertainment retail history in its first 24 hours -- with $125 million in sales -- and that boasts more than four billion online matches since its release in November 2004.
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Read the whole press release here.
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Happy Birthday Xbox
>> From xbox.com:
[QUOTE]
November 15, 2001 was the day that Xbox first showed up on store shelves. A year later, we saw the debut of Xbox Live. It's been five amazing years, and we appreciate every single one of you that have been along for the ride.
[/QUOTE]
Side note: This means Xbox-Scene is now 5years (and 3 days) as well ;)
Thanks for the awesome support we got from the entire community over the past 5years to get the site where it is today. We hope you enjoyed your stay here!
Up to the next 5years now :-)
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Dragon Electronics: Thermostatic Cooling System 2 and Power Charge Cable
>> Dragon Electronics released 2 new products for the Xbox 360:
[QUOTE]
* Thermostatic Cooling System 2 for Xbox 360
Cool your Xbox 360 console for optimum gameplay during those all night gaming session with the improved version of the Thermostatic Cooling System! Just plug and cool (and play :). Instant results! And with its auto temperature sensor, it only turns on when really needed.
Specifications:
* Plug & play and easy to set up
* Lower your Xbox 360 working temperature to expand console lifetime and avoid console crashes
* Manual and Automatic power switch
* Use Xbox 360 power directly, no extra power supply needed
* Instant lower temperature with 2 large cooling fans
* Auto temperature sensor: Switch ON/OFF automatically depending on your console temperatur
* Wireless Controller Power Charge Cable for Xbox 360
A low price cable to charge your Xbox 360 wireless controller with an indicator of charge level. It can be used while playing, and only requires 3 hours for a full reload!
Specifications:
* Fully compatible with Xbox 360 wireless controllers
* Only 3 hours for a full charge
* A LED on cable indicates charge load: Red while charging, Green when fully charged
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.dragon-electronics.com
Buy Thermostatic Cooling System 2: divineo.cn ($15)
Buy Wireless Controller Power Charge Cable: divineo.cn ($10)
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
NPD report proves it's all about the games
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
According to Next Generation Purchase Intent, a report just released by The NPD Group, specific "must-have" features are so important to some consumers that they would be willing to buy a next generation (next-gen) video game console as soon as it becomes available, regardless of price. Appealing game titles is by far the most important feature, with 87 percent of respondents claiming this as their number one concern, followed by backwards compatibility at 68 percent.
"Price is definitely a factor, but not as much as is content," said Anita Frazier industry analyst, The NPD Group. "I've long been a believer that it isn't any particular technical capability that will win this next console battle. The story continues to be content."
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Read the whole press release on businesswire.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Connect360 v2.82
>> NullRiver released a new version of Connect360(info), it's a tool to stream your music, images and with the fall dashboard upgrade also wmv videos from your Mac OSX to your Xbox 360 console.
What's fixed/new (since v2.8):
* Smarter and faster video sharing folder scanning
* Fixes minor video sharing bugs
Official Site: http://www.nullriver.com/index/products/connect360
Download: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Talismoon 'Wild Jungle' Evolve Fur Xbox360 Controller Faceplates
>> From the press release:
[QUOTE]
We're just so excited by our latest spot of customization magic that we thought we'd give you a sneak peak at what's to come. With the Talismoon upcoming range of evolve 'Wild Jungle' edition for the PSP and Xbox 360, gamers will be treated to extreme levels of comfort thanks to a soft 'like fur' finish, as well as refreshing and unique new look. Both sets of faceplates for PSP and Xbox 360 will come complete with everything needed for a pain-free install, and each fur faceplate pattern will be unique. Initial stocks will consist of a 'cow' or striking 'leopard' fur finish and will go on sale for approximately $14.99 relatively soon.
Please note no animals were hurt in the production of the 'evolve Wild Jungle' edition faceplates. More information on the series will be released in the coming weeks.
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.talismoon.com/
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
How-To: Turn a standard Xbox 360 video cable into a VGA cable
>> From engadget.com:
[QUOTE]
Recent Xbox 360 updates have allowed the system to spit out resolutions up to 1080p, and with the new HD DVD add-on drive there's more reason than ever to use a high quality VGA signal instead of the more standard 3-cable component. However there's a bit of a catch -- VGA cables for the 360 cost about $40. According to my calculations, that's about 2 pizzas and a case of beer less to game with. WE don't know about you, but we find that a pretty scary proposition -- yours buddies that swing over for game night probably do too.
In this How-To we'll describe how you can turn your existing Xbox 360 video cable into a "multi-out" device capable of VGA. You don't even need to hack inside the Xbox itself, just the cable. Total cost is around $7, including the Radio Shack project box shown above. Ready to save some cash? Let's get in there!
The following mod allows you to use a standard Xbox 360 cable to create a special VGA cable that would normally be purchased separately. The reason we can hack the standard cable in this way is because Microsoft was kind enough to put every pin in the normal connector, even ones the cable doesn't use. Standard plugs on other systems (notably the PS2 and Gamecube) only have the pins the plug needs.
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Read the whole tutorial on engadget.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Nyko Addresses Xbox 360 Intercooler Problems
>> From gamepro.com:
[QUOTE]
Because the fan peripheral saps its power directly from the Xbox 360, there have been concerns that the Intercooler 360 could cause damage to the console. Recent posts on some gadget blogs have shown Intercoolers discoloring and, in some cases, breaking Xbox 360s. Outside of images and testimonials, however, it's not known how many units could be affected.
Nyko notes that "a small percentage of all products suffer from defects," and that the Intercooler 360 is "less than half the average for consumer electronics products." Nyko is also pledging to replace damaged Intercooler 360s, as well as Xbox 360 consoles, "upon first-hand verification that the Intercooler 360 caused the system to fail."
The Intercooler 360 ($24.99) has shipped over 500,000 units, according to Nyko.
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Read More: gamepro.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Digital distribution won't affect retailers, says Microsoft exec
>> From gamesindustry.biz:
[QUOTE]
Microsoft's casual games boss, Kim Pallister, has told GamesIndustry.biz that he doesn't believe the growth of digital distribution will have an effect on retailers - at least not in the near future.
"Number one, most of the digital distribution today, the vast majority of it is done in places like the casual games space where the download size is not so formidable as to limit that. We're still a ways away from a six gigabyte image being something you can easily transfer out."
"So in some ways, it doesn't overlap. It also grows the industry in different ways; it allows for titles that maybe couldn't do the volume for an individual retailer to justify the shelf space."
When asked about the possibility of full size Xbox 360 games being distributed digitally, Pallister replied, "Will we eventually get there one day? Possibly, but it's quite possible that the games grow in size and outsize the bandwidth growth or whatever."
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Read More: gamesindustry.biz
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XFPS 360 - Play with Keyboard and Mouse or PS2 Controller on Xbox 360
>> From Team XTender:
[QUOTE]
We are pround to announce that we are in the final phases of the XFPS 360.
Below are its amazing features:
1.Auto Fire function
2.Compatible with PS 2 Dual shock 2 (you can use PS 2 Dual shock 2 controller on Xbox 360 console)
3.Compatible with PC mouse and keyboard (You can use it on the new Halo 3 comming out)
[/QUOTE]
Team Xtender also obtained a sizable batch of Japanese 60GB PlayStation3 consoles, they are shipping them worldwide, if you're interested head over to teamxtender.com.
Official Site: http://www.teamxtender.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Game deals turn IBM into winner
>> From seattletimes.nwsource.com:
[QUOTE]
No matter whether Nintendo, Microsoft or Sony wins the video-game console war, there already is one huge victor: IBM, which designed and makes the microprocessors for all three units.
Not very long ago, some analysts were suggesting that IBM sell its microelectronics division, which produces processors for IBM servers and a wide range of other devices, including automotive and telecommunications gear.
Now, because of the video-game deals, IBM is expected to see about $3.7 billion in sales of chips and associated design services this year, up from $2.9 billion last year and $2.5 billion in 2004. Analysts estimate the unit is profitable.
Using the engineering consulting work it did for Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony as a model, IBM has formed a new "technology-collaboration solutions" unit that's expected to post $4 billion in revenue this year. Internal projections call for that division to hit $10 billion by 2010 and $20 billion by 2015.
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Read More: seattletimes.nwsource.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Activision's CoD3 and THP8 not hitting 720p
>> From joystiq.com:
[QUOTE]
Someone call Activision and let 'em know that 720p means 1280x720, please. Games-Aktuell, a German gaming outlet, has discovered that Call of Duty 3 and Tony Hawk's Project 8 are not running at a 720p high-def resolution.
When the tests were run, CoD3 was shown to be running at 1040x620 pixels and THP8 at 1040x584 pixels. The pixel drop reflects a resolution drop of 30% and 34%, respectively. The resolution drop could be assumed to help keep framerates up, but THP8 reportedly has framerate problems. So what's up?
[/QUOTE]
Note: It's not the first time we see this happen on the 360 ... PGR3 is known to run sub-720p (1280x600) too.
Read More: joystiq.com and cynamite.de (google translate)
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Xbox 360's HD-DVD Addon Opened and tested on XP, Vista, Mac OSX
>> The guys over at uneasysilence.com talk about how to use the Xbox360 HD-DVD addon on a PC. In case you missed the news Saturday on xbox-scene, Toshiba drivers have been released on net net that will allow Windows XP to recognize the Xbox360 HD-DVD addon if you connect it via USB with your PC.
The guys over at 360insider.net even say Windows Vista has the drivers built-in. Apparently the drive will be recognized and automatically installed on Windows Vista.
To test if you can not just read the content (fileview) of HD-DVD discs but also play HD-DVD movies, uneasysilence.com installed WinDVD 8 that has support to playback HD-DVD movies on Windows (update: apparently only the japanese version of WinDVD can playback HD-DVD atm). The HD-DVD movies played just fine on their Windows XP using the $200 Xbox360 HD-DVD Addon.
They also connected the addon with Mac OSX ... it was automatically recognized, and when a DVD disc was inserted the "DVD Player" application included in the OS started doing its thing. However they could not test HD-DVD movies as Mac OSX has no player for these discs yet.
They also opened on the Xbox360 HD-DVD Xbox 360 Addon. It looks like the drive found in the case, made by Toshiba, uses a non-standard plug (update: apparently it is a standard laptop CD/DVD drive connector (mini ATAPI) which can easily be converted to IDE, sry for the mistake). Here are some pictures (more here):
Read More: uneasysilence.com, 360insider.net and xbox-scene.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XboxMediaCenter (XBMC) 2.0.1 Final Pointrelease T3CH builds
>> Team XBMC released the v2.0.1 Pointrelease of XboxMediaCenter(info), a stable bug-fix version of the XboxMediaCenter 2.0.0 point-release - read their official press release if you missed it.
Like with the v2.0.0 release T3CH made 2 builds based on this v2.0.1 sourcetree.
Notes from T3CH:
* AMT has been updated to 0.93.5 since 2.0.0.
* I have also added Rockstarr's SNAKE Python game since 2.0.0.
* This build is based on 2.0.1 sourcetree as found on Sourceforge.
* The only changes since XBMC 2.0.0 are bugfixes, it is recommended to upgrade!
* Full changelog since the T3CH 2006-11-05 CVS release is available here.
* Full changelog since the v2.0.0 pointrelease is available here.
T3CH made 2 builds of this 2.0.1 point-release:
* the standard 'SLIM' build is like you are used to see from T3CH - it's what's in the XBMC CVS with just a few small additions:
+ Killarny & Nuka1195 & Pikes AppleMovieTrailers(info) (AMT) 0.93.5 (scripts: Apple Movie Trailers)
+ BritneysPAIRS's ~110 choosen Milk(info)drop presets (visualisations: MD - BPs Selection)
+ EnderW's XBMCScripts Installer 1.0 SCRIPT (scripts: XBMCScripts)
+ Rockstarr's Snake 1.0 SCRIPT (scripts: Snake)
+ Codecs for mplayer (system\players\mplayer\codecs\:*)
* nonstandard 'FAT' build will come with everything that's in the SLIM build and some extra stuff:
Skins:
+ MC360 v0.99b by Team Blackbolt *updated
+ Project Mayhem I - 2.0 version by Jezz_X *updated
+ Project Mayhem II - 2.0 version by SmokeHead *updated
+ BlackBolt Classic - 2.0 version by Jezz_X
Scripts:
+ LaunchBrowser v1.9 by Flash
+ myTV by BigBellyBilly *updated to 1.14b
+ Poker Timer II by Nuka1195
+ XBMCLyrics_guibuilder by EnderW & Smuto
+ Youtube 1.7a by Donno *updated to 1.8a
Visualisations:
+ MilkDrop MegaPack (8265 presets)
Extras: (_extras folder)
+ 1800~ or so dupechecked Game trainers (no need to unzip before xferring to xbox).
+ Some Game thumbnails (3D)
Note: 'Project Mayhem 1' changed name to 'Project Mayhem I'
Official Site: www.xboxmediacenter.com (manual and FAQ)
Download Binaries: n/a (built with XDK) | Download SourceCode: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XboxMediaCenter 2.0.1 - Released!
>> Team XBMC released a new point release: XboxMediaCenter(info) v2.0.1
[QUOTE]
Team-XBMC and The XBMC Project is proud to announce the release of XboxMediaCenter 2.0.1. XBox Media Center (XBMC) is an award winning, free and open source media player for the Xbox game-console. XboxMediaCenter 2.0.1 point-release source code has now been set in our CVS, and all XBMC users are highly encouraged to upgrade to this version. Know that this point-release version marks the end of the 2.0 era of XBMC, there will be no more 2.0.x bug-fix point-releases. The next point-release of XBMC will be 2.1 (or maybe even 3.0), and it will probably be quite a while before that 2.1 (or 3.0) version sees the light of day with all new major features/functions we have planned for the future, (those who can not wait can always use the latest daily CVS of XBMC).
This XboxMediaCenter 2.0.1 point-release is a stable bug-fix version of the XboxMediaCenter 2.0.0 point-release, no major new features has been implemented, for a full list of fixed bugs and tweaks please read the changelog. (For a full list of all features/functions and codecs/formats supported by XBMC please visit the "XBMC Features and Supported Formats/Codecs" page in our online manual). Remember, Team-XBMC only maintain the XBMC source code, Team-XBMC does not release or distribute Xbox executable (XDK binaries), but the XBMC source code needs to be compiled with the XDK before it can be used on an Xbox, also note that XBMC requires a modded Xbox to run. Our thanks goes out to everyone who has tested, reported bugs, and helped fix them in order to make this release possible.
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