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Week of March 26, 2006
Transcode 360 Beta 2
>> Runtime released a new beta version of Transcode 360(info), a tool that, combined with Windows Media Center 2005, will allow you to stream a wide range of video formats to your Xbox 360 and Media Center Extender devices (by transcoding them to high-quality MPEG2):
[QUOTE]
Transcode 360 Beta 2 has been released, featuring a radically overhauled engine for playback of XviD and DivX (as well as a wide variety of other formats), boasting higher picture quality, lower CPU consumption, faster than real-time transcoding (using FFMPEG under the bonnet); super-tight integration enabling Pause, Skip Forward and Backward, Resume and Restart while transcoding without any need for non-standard user-interface conventions.
My sincerest thanks go to blog-regular bmaltais who has helped tremendously with the prototyping, tweaking, testing and documentation, and of course jmel who's about to have his bandwidth zapped!!
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://runtime360.com/blog/
Download: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
MCE Video Encoder v1.0.2.0 beta *Updated*
>> A new version of MCE Video Encoder(info) has been released, it's a tool that will encode xvid, divx and other video formats on-the-fly so you can stream them from your Windows MediaCenter PC to your Xbox 360.
What's new/fixed:
Issues Fixed:
* new: Use of custom profiles: users can now created their own streaming profiles.
* new: Auto-detection of install status: will install all required files and folders when application first starts.
* new: Auto-detection of Windows MCE: will prompt for install of Windows MCE add-ins when application first starts.
* new: Auto-detection of Windows Media Encoder: will check if encoder is installed and that it is working correctly.
* new: More helpful messages added to Windows MCE Add-ins.
* new: Troubleshooting area added to help document.
* fixed: Video stream stopping 10 seconds before end of video.
* fixed: Unhandled Exception when application first loads.
* fixed: Incorrect "Shared Documents" path created during install.
* fixed: "Encoder Is." message showing when "Start/Stop" MCE add-in is activated.
UPDATE: A 2nd release of v1.0.2.0 beta has come out.
* fixed: An inssue with MCE Video Encoder not allowing users to change the Port number has been fixed. You should only upgrade to this version if you require the use of a port other than 8080.
Official Site: http://www.lightningware.co.uk
Download (2nd release): here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XDVDFS Maker v2.3 alpha 2
>> A new version of XDVDFS Maker (which is the application in XDVDFS Tools(info) to create xbox images) has been released. From layouts.xbox-scene.com:
[QUOTE]
Well, here is it. An alpha of Mwg40's modifications to XDVDFSMaker allowing DL iso creation and maybe fixing some bugs in dvd5 creation. HereŽs some info about:
+ Will work with current LYT format, will look for this text to know where to change layers: # <<<<< LAYER 1 BEGINS HERE >>>>>
+ new -DL parameter to work in double layer "mode". Otherwise it should work just as before
+ new -nopadSPH (Do not pad Security Placeholders) parameter. Works only with DL. By default, dvd5 images are not padded and DL images are.
+ added "-OEIBuf XDVD" this is for evaluation purpose, it will use the original xdvd layer size of 1715632 sectors, use xdvdfs_dumper with the generated image, the resulting layout should be the same as the original (unless you don't use -pad or use -nopadSPH etc.)
+ kept "undocumented" -simulate option
+ will return "Sectors in L0" value at the end, for dvd decrypter / imgburn / (other?). I believe this works only on DL DVD+R, not -R, according to the author of dvd decrypter
Security placeholders emulation is always turned on to keep any avaible layer switch optimization in DL disc. Also DL iso creation is not default so youŽll have to use the correct switch. Also, this is obviously not supported at all by MooGUI(info), so back to the command line tongue
Btw, I consider lastest Mgw40 versions maybe needs a bit more of testing, so, theyŽll be kept in xbdvdfs_maker folder (at the file manager) while we receive some feedback about.
Anybody willing to risk one of those precious and expensive DVD+-R9? ;)
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: Patch by Mwg (see forums.xbox-scene.com)
Download: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Japan Gets FIFA World Cup 360 Bundle
>> From 1up.com:
[QUOTE]
Microsoft today announced plans to release a special FIFA World Cup bundle of the Xbox 360 in Japan, alongside the release of Electronic Arts' 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany game. The bundle will go on sale on April 27 at open price, which means retailers are free to set the price however they want.
The bundle includes all the usual stuff -- the Xbox 360 itself, 20GB HDD, video cables, LAN cable, headset, media remote and gargantuan power brick, as well as the FIFA World Cup game, a pair of special adidas bandanas and an adidas faceplate. The faceplate is blue, the same color as the Japan soccer team's home strip. Microsoft has also been kind enough to include the original white faceplate, just in case Japan gets knocked out in the first round and disappointed fans want to wash away their bad feelings.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: 1up.com | Xbox Japan
You can pre-order this SE console for 429.90usd from import-store play-asia.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Video games add interactive dimension to local libraries
>> From kingcountyjournal.com:
[QUOTE]
Some say they're a pox on civilization. Others say they're a nod to teen culture. Either way, video games (Xbox360, Xbox NDS and GameCube) are finding a place in the King County Library System, alongside books and other traditional programs, as librarians try to engage teens and meet their recreational needs.
The program -- already in libraries from Issaquah to North Bend and Covington to Tukwila -- is geared toward young people ages 12 to 18, with the games rated ``E'' for everyone or ``T'' for teen.
But don't bet on video games ending up in all the system's suburban libraries. Some librarians worry that setting up the games and monitoring teens will take time away from other activities.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: kingcountyjournal.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Microsoft to relaunch Xbox 360 in Japan in June?
>> From gamesindustry.biz:
[QUOTE]
The Xbox 360 is to be relaunched in Japan in late June in response to weak sales of the console, according to a report today which cites sources at Japanese wholesalers and indicates that an announcement of the relaunch could come next week.
June 29th is fingered as the date of the relaunch, which coincides with the changed release date for a number of major titles - Sega's Chrome Hounds, Idea Factory's Spectral Force 3: Innocent Rage, AQ Interactive's Bullet Witch, and Ubisoft's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter.
It's not yet clear what form the relaunch might take - whether it will see the console's pricing or bundles being changed, or if it will simply be a new marketing campaign focused on the locally relevant software available for the system.
[/QUOTE]
For those interested, here are the m-create numbers for hardware sales in Japen (week March 20-26): PS2 34169, Gamecube 1458, Xbox360 1415, Xbox 108.
Read More: gamesindustry.biz
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Next Halo Hits March 2007
>> From xbox360.ign.com:
[QUOTE]
The next Halo is coming in March 2007. According to a Microsoft source who asked to remain anonymous and a second source close to the company, IGN today learned that Microsoft will publish the next Halo game (as predicted in January) in March 2007.
When phoned, Microsoft declined to comment. While the holiday season remains the most important set of months to publish a game, the first calendar quarter of the year is proving to be bigger and more prominent in sales. Microsoft intends to innovate, challenge traditions, and to use its own "playbook" (as Microsoft's J Allard has said time and again), and slotting Halo 3 (or Halo Forerunners, or whatever April Fool's gag you choose) in March 2007 is likely to shift consumers' priorities. That anticipation will overlap with the first few months of Sony's and Nintendo's launches, cutting into their building stages, and shifting eyes toward and opening wallets for Xbox 360.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: xbox360.ign.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
XCM 360 Pack 3/ XCM 360 Limited Edition Delux Chrome Faceplate
>> From Team XTender:
[QUOTE]
Due to the high demand of our XCM 360 Limited Edition Delux Chrome Faceplate, we have sold out of our first production run. But don't worry, our second production run is in progress right now. We are working hard to bring out more of these beautiful faceplates!!!
(The 2nd picture is a sneak preview of our FULL BLACK KNIGHT XCM 360 Case. ENJOY!!!)
The first batch is being shipped to our official resellers this week and early next week. Check with your local official reseller.
In other news we are launching our XCM 360 Pack 3. This pack has the following exciting colours:
1) Platinum/Gold
2) Black Knight (sneak peak to our FULL Black Knight case)
3) Metallic Blue
4) Metallic Green
5) Metallic Red
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: http://www.teamxtender.com
You can pre-order the LE Delux' Chrome Faceplate from official resellers and x-s advertisers lik-sang.com and modchipworld.com and it should soon be available on divineo.net too.
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Sony trounces Microsoft and Nintendo in brand trust survey
>> From joystiq.com:
[QUOTE]
Forrester Research has published a new report that examines the trust that American households place in PC and consumer electronics (CE) brands, including the brands of Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony. The results may be surprising to gamers.
In Forrester's analysis, Sony's brand garnered the highest marks of the three companies (Sony also ranked 3rd out of 22 companies), earning an average of A plus. Of the companies surveyed, only Bose and Dell sport an A plus. Meanwhile, Microsoft's brand earned an overall grade of C (placing Microsoft at 20 out of 22), dragged down by low brand trust. Nintendo's brand earned a B, but was pulled towards the bottom of the ranking (17th place out of 22) by low brand potential and low brand adoption.
A few revealing quotes from the study:
* "Microsoft faces big consumer defection risk. One measure of consumers' dissatisfaction with Microsoft is seen in the 5.4 million households that give it a brand trust score of 1 [distrust a lot] or 2 [distrust a bit]. Compared with all Microsoft users, these at-risk users have higher income, are much more likely to be male, and are bigger online spenders.(see endnote 7) These households know they run Microsoft software but would be just as happy to leave it behind -- if they could."
* "Sony's current customers are affluent, young, and more likely than the general population to stick with a brand they like. Sony's prospects have a different profile: poorer than the general population, less brand loyal, and more likely to buy on price. To reach these 9.8 million households, Sony will have to tailor its marketing messages and retail presence to compete on price."
[/QUOTE]
Read More: joystiq.com
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(Thursday 30 March 2006 13:04 EST) - (Category: Xbox_Xbox360) - (Posted by::
)
Backwards Compatibility List Updated
>> From the Team Xbox GamersScore Blog:
[QUOTE]
Hey there, Xbox fans old and new. Today we're updating the back compat list with three of the most requested games and updates to existing back-compat games.
* New games on the list: BLACK ; Star wars Battlefront II ; World Soccer Winning Eleven 9
* Updated games: Darkwatch ; Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas ; Half-Life 2 ; Fable ; Fable: The Lost Chapters ; Forza Motorsport ; Ninja Gaiden ; Ninja Gaiden Black ; SSX 3 ; Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Chaos Theory ; kill.switch ; World Series Baseball 2K3
The new updates are available on Xbox Live and on Xbox.com, with mail-order discs coming about two weeks later. And the team is by no means done - they'll continue to work on the most requested games, so stay tuned for more.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: gamerscoreblog.com | xbox.com
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(Wednesday 29 March 2006 22:13 EST) - (Category: Xbox360) - (Posted by::
)
NeoGenesis v21
>> Xport released a new version of NeoGenesis(info).
What's new/fixed:
* Core: CUE sheet loading for ISO/MP3 is fixed
* Core: Loading state from BIN/CUE would not restart the CDDA being played. Fixed.
* GUI: Brought up to date with most recently added features
Official Site: http://xport.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
360Sata Adapter High-Res Samples Pictures
>> Here are some high-res quality pictures of the final 360Sata Adapter sample we got. It allows you to easily connect your Xbox 360 HD to your PC without opening the HDD case. It comes with a printed color manual explaining how to connect it (it's very important you don't connect it upside down: one side has data lines and the other side has power lines and you don't want to inverse those). You'll have to connect the adapter it with an SATA-cable (not included) to your PC (either using an SATA-to-USB adapter, SATA PCI card or motherboard SATA port if it has one). For power you need a simple 4pin molex from your PC PSU, so no need for an SATA powerconnector. Using software like Xplorer360(info) or wxHdd(info) you can then access your Xbox 360 HD on your PC.
This adapter was initially produced in very low quantity (and it's currently not in stock), but they are now in the process of mass producing the adapter according to their site, so it should be widely available soon.
Click the images for a high-res view.
Official Site: http://www.360sata.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
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(Wednesday 29 March 2006 19:10 EST) - (Category: Xbox360) - (Posted by::
)
(AUS) Xbox Waterballoon Fight In Real Life
>> From kotaku.com:
[QUOTE]
Those crazy aussies are trying to recreate the famous water balloon fight commercial for the Xbox 360 in Sydney on April 22.
Xbox 360 is hoping to set the world record for largest water balloon fight at Coogee Beach in Sydney to celebrate the console's launch. You have to buy tickets to get in, but each entry comes with an Xbox 360 Challenge Pack. The pack's include an unnamed 360 game, a T-shirt, atrucker cap, swimming goggles and canvas bag.
The current record for largest water balloon fight was set in 2005 when 2,677 Spaniards threw 50,855 balloons.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: kotaku.com | xbox.com Australia
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
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(Wednesday 29 March 2006 17:53 EST) - (Category: Xbox360) - (Posted by::
)
Major Xbox 360 Briefing in Japan: Tales of and Phantasy Star ?
>> We already reported about this Xbox press event in Tokyo on April 6, but today some rumors are circulating about what we can expect from the briefing. From spong.com:
[QUOTE]
Microsoft's Xbox wing in Japan today invited many media outlets, including SPOnG, to a major briefing dated for April 6th next week, with those close to proceedings hinting that some major announcements are planned. Indeed, those close to planning have openly mooted Phantasy Star Universe from Sega and a new Tales of title from Namco will headline the event.
As to what else Microsoft may show is up in the air, though a new Square Enix exclusive has been mentioned in some circles, as have various Sega arcade conversions including Virtua Fighter and Afterburner. Other titles mooted include Konami's Winning Eleven as well as various Xbox Live Arcade titles...
[/QUOTE]
Read More: spong.com
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(Wednesday 29 March 2006 11:14 EST) - (Category: Xbox360) - (Posted by::
)
Xbox 360 becomes Australia's fastest-selling console at launch
>> From gamesindustry.biz:
[QUOTE]
Microsoft's Xbox 360 has racked up the best debut ever for a console platform in Australia, with over 30,000 units of the system selling through in the four days following its March 23rd launch.
That's according to figures from market analyst GfK, which reports that around 10,000 consoles sold at the midnight launch on March 23rd, followed by an additional 20,000 units in the following days.
The totals put the Xbox 360 at the top of the launch sales league table in the region - the former record holder was Sony's PlayStation Portable, which sold through 27,000 units in a comparable period of time.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: gamesindustry.biz
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
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(Wednesday 29 March 2006 10:28 EST) - (Category: Xbox360) - (Posted by::
)
XboxMediaCenter (XBMC) 2006-03-28 CVS T3CH build
>> T3CH released a new CVS compile of XboxMediaCenter(info).
This T3CH-compile is a complete snapshot of what is in CVS at the time the build was compiled, with just a few small additions.
Since XBMC is in a FEATUREFREEZE at the moment, T3CH decided to make more than one BUILD per week. If you want to report bugs, please do it the PROPER way, see here.
Here's the added/changed stuff from the changelog since the 2006-03-23 T3CH CVS release:
* added: XLinkKai(info).UserName infolabel.
* added: ability to abort mplayer while it is parsing of vobsubs
* changed: play folder in my videos ignores sample/ folder.
* changed: unified hide 'parent folder items' setting.
* changed: Log entry if a filename is truncated.
* changed: lowres decoding kicked in on 720p xvid files. limit changed to a width of 1400 from 1280 pixels
* changed: added subtitle/audio stream numberering to osd, easier to see when having multiple English for example
* changed: CFileCURL files will now write in smaller chunks and have less chance of overwriting buffer, also Stat/Exist should now work for http urls. (no knowledge about dir thou)
... rest of changelog (including many fixes): here.
Noteworthy, XML and Script changes in this build:
* Chokeman has touched up some Project Mayhem III dialogs ;)
* Keymap.xml: No changes this time
* XboxMediaCenter.xml: DVD-Game bookmark in My Programs changed.
Keep in mind this is a CVS snapshot of the current development tree. It's not an official (stable) point release. Use only if you know what you are doing.
Official Site: http://www.xboxmediacenter.com / http://sourceforge.net/projects/xbmc
Download Binaries: n/a (built with XDK) | Download SourceCode: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
x360 Tool v1.3
>> Team GX released a new version of x360 Tool(info), an application to display information within most Xbox 360 files, and with full source code. What's new/fixed:
* Fixed more bugs of course
* Added better support for PNG files
* Auto-loads PNG files into the preview box
* Faster loading of offset values (better code)
* Progress bar for operations
* Sources released!
* Error handling
Official Site: http://www.team-gx.org/x360tool/
Download: binaries | sources
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Prometheus Update 6
>> Prometheus is a map editor currently in development that will allow you to edit and create maps for Halo 1, Halo 2, and future games that use the Halo Engine. A new update has been posted:
[QUOTE]
Well here we are again with a long overdue update. We know it has been way too long but, with the lack of a time travel device, all we can do is say sorry. Enough of that though, last week had a special day! Monday, March 20th, 2006 was the 1 year anniversary of the Prometheus announcement. Step on inside for some new info, the occasional pretty picture, a request, some phat rhymes, a poll, and a special guest contributor!
[/QUOTE]
Go check the full news on halodev.org.
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Nyko's Intelligent Remote 360 and Intercooler 360 Available Now
>> Another pressrelease about new Xbox 360 accessoires, this time from Nyko:
[QUOTE]
Nyko Technologies has shipped its highly-anticipated Xbox 360 accessory line-up; the Intelligent Remote 360, a universal smart remote for the home entertainment center, and Intercooler 360, a compact, snap-on cooling device for the Xbox 360 console. Xbox 360 owners can fully immerse themselves in the next generation of gaming with Nyko's stylish and practical options for the Xbox 360.
Intercooler 360 - a high efficiency, snap-on cooling device that uses three fans to dramatically increase air flow out of the 360. The Intercooler 360 reduces heat throughout the Xbox 360, promoting extended life and reliability of the components contained within. The compact, cooling device snaps onto the back of the console, fits in entertainment centers with the 360 in a horizontal or vertical position, and turns on and off automatically in conjunction with the 360.
Intelligent Remote 360 - a sleek, learning remote with back-lit buttons that allows users to control their Xbox 360 and television with the same device.
The unit picks up a signal by simply aiming the source remote at the Intelligent Remote. The product "learns" commands from standard remote controls, no programming is required. Nyko's remote is ideal for gamers who have already made their Xbox 360 their entertainment centerpiece.
Nyko's Xbox 360 accessories are now available at GameStop and EB Games (MSRP $19.99 each).
[/QUOTE]
Read the whole pressrelease on gamesindustry.biz
More Info: Intelligent Remote 360 and Intercooler 360
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Joytech Nitro Racing Wheel for Xbox 360
>> From the pressrelease:
[QUOTE]
Officially licensed from Microsoft, the Nitro Racing Wheel delivers the definitive Xbox 360 driving experience through a host of advanced features and precision engineering. The Dual Bearing Management System gives gamers pixel-perfect steering for all Xbox 360 driving titles. This dynamic system provides robust, highly realistic steering, mimicking the genuine driving sensation with greater accuracy than ever before. The In-Built Digital Display and Analog LED Throttle Indicator provide players with continuous performance data and the integrated Digital Stopwatch allows gamers to monitor and perfect their lap time performance.
Intent on delivering the most authentic racing wheel possible, the Nitro Racing Wheel provides a wealth of control options to integrate with the most demanding of next generation software. Additional features include the Sequential Gear Stick and F1-style Butterfly Paddles for quick access to gear changes, full rubber Wheel Head that provides a comfortable grip at all times and a non-slip, centrally-pivoted Pedal Set that delivers accurate and comfortable control. Completing the experience, the high intensity Dual Vibration Feedback thrusts players into the heart of the action and delivers every smash, jump and crash with thrilling results.
Built with Xbox Live online game service in mind, the Nitro Racing Wheel also features an Integrated Headset-Port and illuminated Xbox Guide Button for instant access to the Xbox 360 Dashboard.
The JOYTECH Nitro Racing Wheel for Xbox 360 is available now for a suggested retail price of 59.99GBP (~105usd ~57eur).
[/QUOTE]
Read the whole pressrelease on gamesindustry.biz
More Info: joytech.net
Buy the Joytech Nitro Racing Wheel: play-asia.com (119.90usd)
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
MednafenX-NES v3 *update v4*
>> Xport released a new version of MednafenX-NES(info). What's new/fixed:
*(v3) Yet another possible fix for garbled video on 1.6 xbox's
*(v3) Games with battery backup RAM (e.g. Zelda) would save the first time you exit the game, but then would fail upon subsequent saves until the emulator was restarted. Fixed.
*(v3) When using the USB mouse or joystick to control the light gun, pressing one button will fire normally and pressing the other button will automatically fire off-screen (cursor automatically positioned to upper left corner)
*(v4) Yet another possible fix for garbled video on 1.6 xbox's
*Update* Xport released v4 ... changelog above is updated.
Official Site: http://xport.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
MadCatz Xbox 360 Microcon
>> From gear.ign.com:
[QUOTE]
MadCatz is expanding their line of Xbox 360 peripherals with the release of their new Xbox 360 Microcon Controller. The Microcon is quite similar in design and function to the MadCatz 360 GamePad Pro, which impressed us months ago with its nice analog sticks and solid shoulder buttons. In fact, the only major differences between the Microcon and the GamePad Pro are their size and the texture of their plastic.
As the name suggests the key point of the Microcon is the fact that it's small, very small as a matter of fact. Compared to the GamePad Pro and official MS 360 pad, the Microcon is a good 30% less bulky, most similar to the original Playstation controller in overall measurements. Face buttons and the d-pad are all slightly shrunken compared to the GamePad Pro, as are the LB, RB, and Triggers. Analog sticks remain the same size.
[/QUOTE]
Read More: gear.ign.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Major Nelson's Custom Xbox Timberland Boots
>> From Major Nelson (Xbox Live Director of Programming):
[QUOTE]
One of my best friends from college now is pretty high up at the Timberland company. When he found out what I do, he had these special 'Xbox/Major Nelson' boots made for me. While it's nice they say 'Timberland' I need to have him to make me a pair that says 'Xbox' on one shoe and '360' on the other...don't you agree?
[/QUOTE]
*UPDATE* Apparently it's not so special as Timberland allows you to make your own custom boots on their website. Cavemonkey50 on our forums posted an image of a custom made boot that looks exactly like these.
More Pictures: Major Nelson Flickr site
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Scott Henson about XNA, Live updates, Vista, Game downloads, ...
>> I already posted about an interesting interview with Scott Henson, Microsoft's Game Technology Group Director, by Kikizo last week. Today the guys at shacknews.com released their GDC interview with the man. Here's an excerpt:
[QUOTE]
To demonstrate what can be done with XNA, Henson showed me a couple small game demos. First up was a version of the traditional game Mahjong. The game's author originally wrote the game for cell phones using Microsoft's C# language, and with XNA was able to get it running on Windows with the Xbox 360 within a day with "100% code reuse." He was then apparently able to port it to Xbox 360 without a developer kit, starting one morning and finishing by the afternoon. In a few more days, an artist and a shader programmer added a bevy of visual effects to make the game more on par with other 360 casual games; the improved 360 game was then able to be rebuilt instantly to run on Windows.
* Shack: Do you ever see Marketplace expanding beyond the current 50MB game limit? You've got demos on there upwards of a gigabyte, so will we ever see full-scale titles?
* Scott Henson: Well, a couple things. One is, technically, we're obviously able to distribute that--I mean, there's a 1.2 gigabyte demo up there for Project Gotham Racing 3. So technically we can distribute all kinds of different things. But the retail members of our ecosystem are super important to us, and that relationship is super important to gamers as well, so I think that what you'll see is that we'll continue to go the path that we're on. Byte-sized games will continue to go through Xbox Live Arcade, games that would never find a home in retail. Geometry Wars would never find a home in retail, right? You will find an outlet in Xbox Live Arcade. In retail, these five dollar games just wouldn't make sense. But I don't think you're going to see, any time in the near future, full-scale games. You will have fully-featured demos so you'll know what the games are like.
* Shack: There are currently some interactions between Xbox 360 and Windows systems. Are we going to see any additional functionality in this regard when Vista rolls around?
* Scott Henson: I'm thinking. Obviously, we have the ability to stream music, to stream photos. One of the most requested features has been the ability to stream videos. That's something we're looking into. We haven't announced anything, but I think with Vista you'll see that becoming a more pervasive thing. I'm not making an announcement here, but that's something we're looking closely at. Of all things I can think of off the top of my head, that's one that probably will go in. Other than that, you'll see better quality, better compression technology, audio quality will continue to improve. That doesn't mean there won't be other things.
* Shack: How will we be seeing the Dashboard improve on the 360?
* Scott Henson: I don't think we've given an official date yet, but in the not so distant future you will see another update that will improve a lot of how stuff is sorted and shown in the Marketplace, just to make it more efficient. We're going to do a lot of nip and tuck cleanup work. One of the biggest things is the ability to download things in the background.
[/QUOTE]
Read More (3 pages): shacknews.com
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Vivendi VP warns over future of Original Xbox at retail
>> From gamesindustry.biz:
[QUOTE]
Adam Roberts, executive VP of Vivendi Europe, has told GamesIndustry.biz that while the PS2 is not yet nearing the end of its life cycle, Microsoft must work with publishers to restore retail confidence in the Xbox.
In an exclusive interview, Roberts said: "I think Xbox probably needs help at the moment. We're in discussions with Microsoft to help generate some impetus."
"I think it's going to be a retail-led decision - if retailers lose confidence in a format, then it's very difficult to get that confidence back," he continued.
"A retailer is there to sell what people will buy, and there's no benefit to anyone to have product on the shelves that doesn't sell. Really it's up to us, in conjunction with other publishers and Microsoft, to keep the retailers' confidence in the Xbox as a business opportunity."
[/QUOTE]
Read More: gamesindustry.biz
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
VLC360 v1.2
>> VLC360 is a french application (MCE plugin), similar to Transcode 360(info) and MCE Video Encoder(info), that will encode XViD, DiVX and other video formats on-the-fly so you can stream them from your Windows MediaCenter PC to your Xbox 360.
As the name suggests it, VLC360 is based on VLC/VideoLan and of course it does require Windows MediaCenter 2005 as OS.
This is the first version posted here on Xbox-Scene, but here's the changelog from v1.0 to v1.2:
* You can now install VLC360 anywhere you want on your Windows MediaCenter PC.
* Update of VLC (should solve problem with crashing of interface when using special characters)
* Support of subtitles in SRT format.
* For DVDs in .img and .iso it will auto select the french language (can be changed to english see forum thread).
* Support of more formats (I have no exact list)
* VLC will start as service (background application) on your PC.
Official Site: http://jortega74.free.fr/forum/index.php?c=4
View Demo Video: here[dailymotion.com]
Download: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
Sxb-stacker-lsf - Slackware Xbox Linux
>> From Bollywood on forums.xbox-scene.com/email:
[QUOTE]
This is SXB-STACKER-LSF+u modular hd and sxb-stacker-livecd SXB-STACKER-LSF+u labeled aka "sXbig(info) release3, sxbsuperbig and just like slackware".
SXB-STACKER-LSF+u has kernel 2.4.32 by default.
You can download sxb kernel 2.6.14 and 2.6.15 etc at the sxb site if needed for native install. PC sxb kernel 2.6.15.5 was added in this ISO as I was running it from both PC and Xbox, but as the third part of this ISO is to compile you own sxb 2.4 kernels with your own modules etc, as full sxb 2.4 kernel sources and dev is included. I took out PC 2.6 kernel module initrd.gz vmlinuz etc.
So the idea is you can use this ISO as livecd on PC aswell, but more important do your compiling inside this running livecd on PC, so it will match 100 percent when you ftp it back to your xbox with your own custom sxb kernel and module.
So for a better sxb livecd for PC I will do an update package so you can add this pkg in this ISO. Rebuild the ISO and you will have PC sxb kernel 2.6 aswell for real speed on pc.
Or I will just upload a new PC sxb-stacker I use daily for personal use only, it looks and feels just like this xbox sxb-stacker, but it's more advanced and optimised as PCs have lots of memory and I can do more ideas on PC than Xbox. PC guys always ask why I do not upload sxb for PC, maybe I will do it this time. By the way every sxb for Xbox I release, I first make one for pc for personal use then I convert it for you Xbox guys.
Burn ISO and use it as livecd on PC or Xbox.
PS: important please add an empty sxb dir e/sxb on xbox and on pc /hda1/sxb as livecd needs it to do cdsave here and it must add swap.img file here to work fully. This is only when you first run sxb as livecd if you already ftp these dir then its ok.
Quick easy HD-install this time: mount ISO and FTP the 2 dirs 'sxb' and 'sxbsbig' that' s it for pc and xbox.
E-INSTALL= E/sxb E/sxbsbig
F-INSTALL= E/sxb F/sxbsbig
G-INSTALL= E/sxb F/sxbsbig
PC-INSTALL /hda1/sxb /hda1/sxbsbig and edit lilo.
On HD please move sxbxdfb.lfs module from modules dir to extramods. This module was added only for livecd to speed things up, you can add it in again but at least run kde kdm login and save our changes first as default.
To speed up livecd on Xbox I added sxbxdirectfb module. You could also test usb2ide converters usbdevices, so you can use pcdvd burners and run pc eide HD on Xbox. Read sxb-stacker.txt for more info, because when sxb goes 2.6 kernel by default I will use this a lot, so for now you can test in this ISO.
There are 3 parts to this cd sxb-stacker livecd uses xdirectfb to speed up livecd and is autologin root and uses jwm as small fast xdexktop (btw: jwm was default sxb manager on first release of sxb).
The 2nd main part is sxb-stacker on HD with kdm login root and sxbquest and kde as default xdesktop hence i call it 'just like slackware', other 7 dexktops are blackbox, fluxbox, xfce4,windowmaker, etcetc. Full freerock gnome module you be downloaded from sxb site soon (150 mb).
Some tests multi-language modules CLI and KDE and KDE office in german, french, spanish, etc.
sxb-stacker's new file system is called LSF lzma-squashfs-filesys. sxb-stacker is 2.2gb compressed with lsf on a standard 640mb cd.
First time it includes dev made stuff and full sxb kernel sources.
Next release I will show why I call this sxb "Stacker"
[/QUOTE]
Read More: forums.xbox-scene.com
Official Site: http://sourceforge.net/projects/sxb
ScreenShot: here[sourceforge.net]
Download: here
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
MednafenX-Lynx v2, MednafenX-NES v2 and MednafenX-PCE v2
>> Xport released a new version of MednafenX-Lynx(info), MednafenX-NES(info) and MednafenX-PCE(info). What's new/fixed:
*(ALL) Rewind support enabled. Two new button definitions: "Turn On/Off Rewind" and "Rewind". Map them to whatever buttons you want in controller configuration
*(ALL) Should no longer crash in 1080i mode (memory limitation issue)
*(ALL) Error messages when loading games should provide meaningful feedback as to why it has failed.
*(ALL) Possible fix to garbled screen upon starting.
*(ALL) Filename Filter.
*(ALL) Updated text file viewer.
*(ALL) Move DPAD left/right on save state slot to inc/dec slot number.
*(PCE) Implemented 6-button pad. Toggle it on the game configuration menu.
*(PCE) PCE mouse support. Toggle it from game configuration. Use the Left Analog stick or a real USB mouse to control it.
*(PCE) Made main menu have 8 lines.
*(PCE) Audio tracks read from WAV, OGG, or inside BIN files had some distortion and were making the gameplay choppy in certain parts. This is now fixed.
*(PCE) Games that play a specific range of audio sectors from inside an audio track were not starting/stopping at the correct locations when played from an MP3 file. This is fixed, but it will only work correctly if your MP3 files are *not* VBR. They should be constant bitrate.
*(PCE) OGG/WAV/PCM files cannot be read across a network or from ISO9660 files (i.e. your S:\, RLX:\ or SMB:\ drives). An error message will tell you this now instead of the program crashing.
*(PCE) Improved support for ZIP files that have more than one file in them.
*(NES) Game Genie implemented.
*(NES) Use USB mouse to control light gun
*(NES) Made main menu have 7 lines.
*(Lynx) Removed "Launch Inserted CD" menu option (for obvious reasons)
Official Site: http://xport.xbox-scene.com
Download: n/a (built with XDK)
Official Forum Threads/Full Nfo: MednafenX-Lynx | MednafenX-NES | MednafenX-PCE
Xbox 360 Working NES Emulator Through MCE
>> From Xexter on forums.xbox-scene.com:
[QUOTE]
I've attached a link to a version of NESCafe that works through Media Center on the Xbox 360. This is currently setup to run at 480p (Widescreen). You can edit the nes.htm file if it does not fit correctly on your screen. I haven't found a way to add a menu for the roms list so you will have to edit the nes.htm and change <param name="ROMFILE" value="/roms/whateverrom.zip" /> to whatever Nes rom you want to play. I've included a Public Domain rom for testing but have verified Zelda1-2, Excitebike, and TecmoBowl and all worked.
INSTALL: You will need to extract the rar into C:Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Accessories\Media Center\Media Center Programs\ on your media center box. It took a bit for the icon to show up under More Programs but it finally will.
NOTES: Sound is not functioning, Media Center 2005 is required. If it locks up you will need to run something that warns you that it is a web page and check the box that says "Don't show this again". Once you do that it should run fine. I created an MCL that just went to Google and then checked that box. I've also attached an image with the mapping of the Xbox Controller to the corresponding keyboard keys.
[/QUOTE]
Official Site: forums.xbox-scene.com
Download: here
View Video: here[youtube.com]
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
New Modchip: DuoX 2 GS
>> You might have noticed that Team Omega replaced the DuoX 2 (a very popular low-budget (15.49usd) modchip for the Xbox - cheap, but stable & good build quality) by the DuoX 2 GS. No feature changes here (afaik), it seems mostly an optimization of the PCB and controller chip. Most noticeable optimization is that the small 3rd IC was removed (check DuoX 2 pictures if you want to compare).
Just like the original DuoX 2 the chip comes in 2 versions, the white one is pre-flashed with a legal cromwell-based flashbios, the blue one comes pre-flashed with modified MS bioses.
The package comes with a LPC-rebuild PCB for Xbox v1.6x and a (not preinstalled) headerpin.
Here are some high-res quality pictures from a sample we got from divineo.cn. Always buy from official resellers to avoid low-quality clones.
More Pictures:
* DuoX 2 GS Blue Bottom PCB: low-res | high-res
* DuoX 2 GS Blue Top PCB close-up1: low-res | high-res
* DuoX 2 GS Blue Top PCB close-up2: low-res | high-res
* DuoX 2 GS White Bottom PCB: low-res | high-res
* DuoX 2 GS in it's antistatic bag: low-res | high-res
* DuoX 2 GS LPC-rebuild PCB Top: low-res | high-res
* DuoX 2 GS LPC-rebuild PCB Bottom: low-res | high-res
Official Site: http://www.duomodchip.com
Buy DuoX GS (15.49usd): divineo.cn
Discuss this news item on our forums: forums.xbox-scene.com
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