Microsoft's possible negative effect on the video game industry

This is my opinion, and I don't want to be flamed because I'm being honest. This does not mean that I dislike the Xbox 360.

Possibly negative things that have been forced on the console video game business mostly by Microsoft since 2001, and/or just things that I think are mistakes:

1. Shortening of console life span. Microsoft seemingly had a good reason with the Xbox, though that doesn't change much. Less than a year after the release of Halo 2, Microsoft had already ceased first party support and moved on to the Xbox 360. Now, it seems that Microsoft may want to be first on the market with its next console, and I believe that this is a negative trend.
2. Red Ring of Death. This ties into the short lifespan of the original Xbox. The hardware was rushed no doubt, and it has cost them a lot of money for the extended warranties. A few months ago, I was seriously thinking about buying an Xbox 360, though the RROD honestly did lead me to deciding against the console.
3. Paying to play on-line. This is a big deal to me. I first played my PS2 on-line, then my DS and Wii, all free. I'm not interested in a lot of bells and whistles. Microsoft has missed the mark by not offering a free version of on-line; not just a free trial. The free version wouldn't need to feature everything, though casual players could at least play against other people.
4. No Wi-Fi. It's standard on PS3 and Wii. I know that many will say that "wires are better," though doesn't Xbox Live still get lag because of the lack of dedicated servers?
5. Too much focus on first person shooters. Over the last 5-6 years, it seems that consoles have tried to be PC hybrids. Sure, Halo is a fantastic game and many developers want to achieve the same success, though the FPS genre could easily tire itself out soon.
6. Lack of variety. I used to own an Xbox, though I traded it in and then bought a slimline PS2. Why? Lack of variety. I really liked some of the games on the Xbox, and I thought that the custom soundtrack feature was awesome. However, there just wasn't even variety in its software. Not enough good platformer and adventure games. It was the system for FPS and racing fans, I thought. Now, I do think that variety has improved on Xbox 360, though not enough. Microsoft has still focused too much on FPS/TPS and racing games. Sure, there's Viva Pinata and Kameo: Elements of Power. Though, that's only from RARE. So is Banjo Kazooie 3: Nuts & Bolts, which now doesn't even appear to be a true next generation platformer. They can innovate without changing the fundamentals. Look at Super Mario Galaxy!
7. Lack of price drops. In the USA, Microsoft has only lowered the price of the Xbox 360 once, and that was last August. The premium package was dropped by $50. Maybe Microsoft is trying to recoup some of its loss from the RROD problem, though Microsoft has not been near aggressive enough in expanding its audience. This is one reason why the hardware sales have been in a slump lately.

So, there it is. Questions? Comments?

Please don't turn this thread into a flame fest or I will contact a MOD to lock this thread. Thanks.

I totally agree.

Let's not forget the $60 a game bullcrap.

Even so, it gets more play than my PS3 and Wii combined.

This is my opinion, and I don't want to be flamed because I'm honest. This does not mean that I dislike the Xbox 360.

Possibly negavtive things that have been forced on the console video game business mostly buy Microsoft since 2001:

1. Shortening of video game life span.
2. Red Ring of Death
3. Paying to play on-line. This is a big deal to me.
4. No Wi-Fi.
5. Too much focus on first person shooters.
6. Lack of variety.
7. Lack of price drops.

MayorJohnny

1. A valid point
2. Consoles have been poorly built in the past its not new with the 360
3. This could be an issue but its not a negitive affect for the industry
4. What does not having wifi standard do to negitively affect the industry
5. Such as what FPS this year?
6. You completly fail on this point becausee 360 has the most variety in consoles
7. How does lack of price drops negitively affect the industry?

microsoft not having wifi is not a negative trend. its a mistake that they didnt offer it built in. its a mistake that its 100 bucks for theres. but its not a negative its there business decision.

i disagree with one because you cant just blame ms.

#7 is about business decisions and not a negative on the industry.

6. 360 has a lot of variety its got shooters, racers, sports like the rest and its got tons of rpgs.

5. i disagree there is focus on shooters too much but they have tons of rpgs coming in as well.

2. thats your opinion. i would still go out today and buy a 360 rrod doesnt scare me.

3. i agree and this one actually might effect the industry. xbox had fees, 360 has fees, there next console probably will too. its revenue for them. and imo sony will charge for online before microsoft takes away there charges imo.

also about the &60 games thats the industry as a whole to blame not ms.

I agree with you, TC.

I considered buying a 360 at one point but after doing the math the price was much too high, because of the lack of out-of-the-box Wi-fi support and the outrageous online fees.

Even the nintendo DS has Wi-fi capabilities built in.

I also disagree with the Microsoft business ideals. They screw over their customers more than any of the Big 3

1) Non issue. People simply won't upgrade if they feel console lifespans become too short, just look at the PS2's sales since the introduction of the 360, PS3 and Wii.

2) Non issue. MS doesn't gain anything from the RRoD, so why would it ever be an issue for the industry?

3) Arguable. XBL fees pay for infastructure and programs that aren't offered through either PSN or the Wii's online platform. For example many of the standardized features in XBL are designed to allow developers to easily implement online multiplayer in their games (this is especially true for XBLA titles). So comparing XBL to PSN/Wii is and apples-to-oranges comparison.

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

5) The 360 actually has very few shooters. I don't have the link, but shooters make up less than 1/3rd of the 360's library IIRC.

6) The 360 has the most diverse library out of the current gen consoles, so I have no idea what you're talking about.

7) Another non issue. If MS chooses not to lower it's price, people won't buy it. Capitalism and such.

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

PBSnipes

[QUOTE="PBSnipes"]

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

ThePlothole

[QUOTE="PBSnipes"]

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

ThePlothole

Is he speaking of the USB adapter for the Wii?

If he means that, there are two; there are two.

Official Nintendo and Datel one (horrible! DONT BUY!)

[QUOTE="ThePlothole"][QUOTE="PBSnipes"]

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

ArisShadows

Is he speaking of the USB adapter for the Wii?

You can do that?

Not a single item on that list affects the gaming industry

And if it was, it must be positive because the industry revenue are at a all time high.

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"][QUOTE="ThePlothole"][QUOTE="PBSnipes"]

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

Relys

Is he speaking of the USB adapter for the Wii?

You can do that?

(Miss my edit, oh well)

I am not sure what he means. There are USB connector that will signal it over to your Wii/DS. There are also a third party that work on various areas (Wii/DS/PSP/PC). But I am not sure what he means it will work on the 360, because it pugs into the PC USB slot, to relay signal over, not to recieve a connection from an access point (WiFi).

Actually, I have to agree with some of the things and hope Microsoft notices those kind of problems.

Though Microsoft has said that the 360 will be around for a while before they introduce their next console. Then again, they do say a lot of things....when can I sell stuff on xbox live?

I really dont think MS will release a new console until 2011(6 year life span). The console has solid sales and the software sells amazingly well.

1) Non issue. People simply won't upgrade if they feel console lifespans become too short, just look at the PS2's sales since the introduction of the 360, PS3 and Wii.

It's about consideration and balance. Sony still supported the PS2 after the release of the PS3. Nintendo supported the GameCube up until the release of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and the console had a 5 year life cycle.

2) Non issue. MS doesn't gain anything from the RRoD, so why would it ever be an issue for the industry?

Well, it's an issue for Microsoft, its current installed base, and potential customers.

3) Arguable. XBL fees pay for infastructure and programs that aren't offered through either PSN or the Wii's online platform. For example many of the standardized features in XBL are designed to allow developers to easily implement online multiplayer in their games (this is especially true for XBLA titles). So comparing XBL to PSN/Wii is and apples-to-oranges comparison.

Still, Microsoft is the only one to charge fees. People should at least be able to play. Then you could pay for the extras.

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

I didn't know that. Still, the Xbox 360 should have built in Wi-Fi as an option.

5) The 360 actually has very few shooters. I don't have the link, but shooters make up less than 1/3rd of the 360's library IIRC.

Really, it's a lot about Microsoft's focus. One reason sales are peaking right now is because the console is saturated, I think. You know that the most popular games are shooters.

6) The 360 has the most diverse library out of the current gen consoles, so I have no idea what you're talking about.

Most diverse library? Most of the top rated games are M rated, right? Well, these games are for the older crowd. That's not truly mass market, and there needs to be more family friendly games marketed by Microsoft and other strong supporters of the console.

7) Another non issue. If MS chooses not to lower it's price, people won't buy it. Capitalism and such.

Yes, you're right. Capitalism FTW. Some of the things that I listed are also personal issues I have with the console.

PBSnipes

(Miss my edit, oh well)

I am not sure what he means. There are USB connector that will signal it over to your Wii/DS. There are also a third party that work on various areas (Wii/DS/PSP/PC). But I am not sure what he means it will work on the 360, because it pugs into the PC USB slot, to relay signal over, not to recieve a connection from an access point (WiFi).

ArisShadows

The only valid one would be the 1st, the rest are either flawed or not true.ArisShadows

Could you please elaborate?

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"]

(Miss my edit, oh well)

I am not sure what he means. There are USB connector that will signal it over to your Wii/DS. There are also a third party that work on various areas (Wii/DS/PSP/PC). But I am not sure what he means it will work on the 360, because it pugs into the PC USB slot, to relay signal over, not to recieve a connection from an access point (WiFi).

PBSnipes

How does it work? Because it suppose to relay a signal to the machine, faking as a Wireless connection to a Wifi like the Wii. How do you get it to work its plugged in the PC, you need a access point (wifi addon) your 360? Or do you mean it worked sending a connection to the 360, and yo had an wireless addon the 360?

I was unlucky I accidental bought a offbrand version (assuming it was the official one. who is the noob now :P) of the adapter, horrible piece of tech that did work once and with slightly hiccup didn't. I eventually bought the Nintendo one, and bam no probs.

Anyways, how do you have it setup to do that?

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"]

(Miss my edit, oh well)

I am not sure what he means. There are USB connector that will signal it over to your Wii/DS. There are also a third party that work on various areas (Wii/DS/PSP/PC). But I am not sure what he means it will work on the 360, because it pugs into the PC USB slot, to relay signal over, not to recieve a connection from an access point (WiFi).

PBSnipes

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"]The only valid one would be the 1st, the rest are either flawed or not true.MayorJohnny

Could you please elaborate?

Blackbond pretty much explained what I would have said. Also, some of them have no relation to the effect.

[QUOTE="PBSnipes"][QUOTE="ArisShadows"]

(Miss my edit, oh well)

I am not sure what he means. There are USB connector that will signal it over to your Wii/DS. There are also a third party that work on various areas (Wii/DS/PSP/PC). But I am not sure what he means it will work on the 360, because it pugs into the PC USB slot, to relay signal over, not to recieve a connection from an access point (WiFi).

ThePlothole

I am not getting it either, since it connect to the PC and relay a connection over.

[QUOTE="MayorJohnny"]

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"]The only valid one would be the 1st, the rest are either flawed or not true.ArisShadows

Could you please elaborate?

Blackbond pretty much explained what I would have said. Also, some of them have no relation to the effect.

Which ones? Some of the points are personal issues. Also, I stated that the post was based on my opinion.

wow....,

1- Microsoft has given no indication of jumping that early with the 360. In fact the 360 actually makes them money now, where as the XBOX just spent more of there money as last gen went on. SHane Kim has said they want atleast a 7 year span.

2- PS2 had faulty hardware. XBox was reliable. 360 isn't. Even then Microsoft has made a universal 3 year warrent, spent billions on that end, and also on finding a solution. Which is on its way. So another trend Microsoft isn't responsible for, and one they have worked on fixing.

3- There online service destorys PSN and Wii. Until the Wii and PSN can compete with XBL, Microsoft will continue to charge. SO it is up to the competiton to deliver.

4- Why is not having built in Wifi a negative effect? Sure PS3 and Wii have it, but the 360 atleast allows others to add it on. Why should it be forced on people who don't want the wifi and want to save money in that area? Besides some games have lag based on the connection. That said COD 4, Halo 3, Guiter Hero, RSV 2, etc have almost no lag online.

5- This year 360 has 1 shooter exclusive. Gears 2. PS3 has Resistance 2and Socom. On top of that 360 has Tales of Vesperia, Fable 2, and Infinite Undiscoverey for RPG fans, Viva Pinata trouble in Pradise, Banjo Nuts and Bolts. Halo Wars for strategy. Lost Odyssey RPG and Ninja Gaiden 2 Action are allready out.

6- The 360 has the most variety in games. WTF how is this a complaint against Microsoft. They have more RPS, more quality action games, more racers, sports, RTS games(consoles), etc Wii is all Nintendo games, and PS3 hasn't had anything special until MGS 4.

7- This is the only thing valid you have. Microsoft only drops when Sony drops. And even then they have maintained a cheaper price tag than Sony for most of the gen.

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"][QUOTE="MayorJohnny"]

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"]The only valid one would be the 1st, the rest are either flawed or not true.MayorJohnny

Could you please elaborate?

Blackbond pretty much explained what I would have said. Also, some of them have no relation to the effect.

Which ones? Some of the points are personaly issues.

Lack of Wifi is effecting how? Personal issues aren't factored.

It's about consideration and balance. Sony still supported the PS2 after the release of the PS3. Nintendo supported the GameCube up until the release of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and the console had a 5 year life cycle.MayorJohnny

But eventually someone will adapt to the market, or the market will move elsewhere (ie the PC or handhelds).

Well, it's an issue for Microsoft, its current installed base, and potential customers.

MayorJohnny

But what does that have to do with the industry? The PS1 and PS2 both had major hardware issues, they did allright didn't they?

Still, Microsoft is the only one to charge fees. People should at least be able to play. Then you could pay for the extras.

MayorJohnny

That's up to the consumer to decide. If MS is charging too much, people will stop paying and take their business elsewhere.

I didn't know that. Still, the Xbox 360 should have built in Wi-Fi as an option.

MayorJohnny

Why should it?

Really, it's a lot about Microsoft's focus. One reason sales are peaking right now is because the console is saturated, I think. You know that the most popular games are shooters.

MayorJohnny

MS is focused on shooters? What about Too Human, Fable, Forza 3, Banjo Kazooie, Lips and other titles? As for 3rd party games, that's up to the publishers/developers, not Microsoft.

Most diverse library? Most of the top rated games are M rated, right? Well, these games are for the older crowd. That's not truly mass market, and there needs to be more family friendly games marketed by Microsoft and other strong supporters of the console.

MayorJohnny

What about XBLA games like Uno? Or SceneIt? Or the plethora of shovelware on every console? There are dozens of family friendly games for the 360.

[QUOTE="ThePlothole"][QUOTE="PBSnipes"][QUOTE="ArisShadows"]

(Miss my edit, oh well)

I am not sure what he means. There are USB connector that will signal it over to your Wii/DS. There are also a third party that work on various areas (Wii/DS/PSP/PC). But I am not sure what he means it will work on the 360, because it pugs into the PC USB slot, to relay signal over, not to recieve a connection from an access point (WiFi).

ArisShadows

I am not getting it either, since it connect to the PC and relay a connection over.

not again... were it not for MS, we'd still pay $500-$600 for a PS3 and MGS4 for wouldn't have been released.

1. Even though i think their going to launch another Xbox, they've wanted a longer lifespan than the usual 5 years.

2. It may or may not have been rushed, but Microsoft have adressed these issues by extending the warrenty and making better xbox's that dont heat up as much.

3. Their online service is heard to be better then the compitition. Giant Bomb says that they would rather pay to have a clean online service. rather than have a free clunky online service.

4. What??? No comment.

5. If theres anything that Microsoft has a focus on. It's JRPG's

6.The only lack of genre in the 360 i see, is the lack of platformers. However this is a problem for all systems excluding Nintendo, And Nintendo even has a problem with it, as it's the second most saturated genre. First being shovelware.

7. Your American dollar is crap komrade

[QUOTE="PBSnipes"][QUOTE="ArisShadows"]ThePlothole

But he would have to have a access point on his 360, a wifi addon or am I reading you guys wrong. Maybe you just talking about it working on relaying a signal, then okay.

[QUOTE="ThePlothole"][QUOTE="PBSnipes"][QUOTE="ArisShadows"]ArisShadows

But he would have to have a access point on his 360, a wifi addon or am I reading you guys wrong. Maybe you just talking about it working on relaying a signal, then okay.

[QUOTE="PBSnipes"]

1) Non issue. People simply won't upgrade if they feel console lifespans become too short, just look at the PS2's sales since the introduction of the 360, PS3 and Wii.

It's about consideration and balance. Sony still supported the PS2 after the release of the PS3. Nintendo supported the GameCube up until the release of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, and the console had a 5 year life cycle.

YOu mean when the Wii came out, which would mean they stopped supporting it when their new console came out

2) Non issue. MS doesn't gain anything from the RRoD, so why would it ever be an issue for the industry?

Well, it's an issue for Microsoft, its current installed base, and potential customers.

If they are thinking about getting a gaming system and realize that the 360 is flawed they will most likely pick one of of the other systems, therefore its not bad for the industry as a whole, just microsoft

3) Arguable. XBL fees pay for infastructure and programs that aren't offered through either PSN or the Wii's online platform. For example many of the standardized features in XBL are designed to allow developers to easily implement online multiplayer in their games (this is especially true for XBLA titles). So comparing XBL to PSN/Wii is and apples-to-oranges comparison.

Still, Microsoft is the only one to charge fees. People should at least be able to play. Then you could pay for the extras.

That is somewhat true, no reason to exclude online p2p multiplayer but should block access to other things like maybe private chats and such

4) You can buy the Nintendo Wi-Fi adaptor for $30 and it'll work fine with your 360. An annoyance? Yes, but it's not the end of the world. Also it's worth noting that dedicated servers do not automatically mean no lag.

I didn't know that. Still, the Xbox 360 should have built in Wi-Fi as an option.

An option is to have it bought sepratley, unless you want the price of the system as a whole to go up for the people that dont like using wifi,

5) The 360 actually has very few shooters. I don't have the link, but shooters make up less than 1/3rd of the 360's library IIRC.

Really, it's a lot about Microsoft's focus. One reason sales are peaking right now is because the console is saturated, I think. You know that the most popular games are shooters.

Cant just say this about microsoft, its the industry that creates all the games, They make what is popular, what are the ps3's most popular games, and exclusives

6) The 360 has the most diverse library out of the current gen consoles, so I have no idea what you're talking about.

Most diverse library? Most of the top rated games are M rated, right? Well, these games are for the older crowd. That's not truly mass market, and there needs to be more family friendly games marketed by Microsoft and other strong supporters of the console.

A lot of games on the 360 are rated T, but microsoft is doing their part, look at viva pinata and kameo,

7) Another non issue. If MS chooses not to lower it's price, people won't buy it. Capitalism and such.

Yes, you're right. Capitalism FTW. Some of the things that I listed are also personal issues I have with the console.

MayorJohnny

[QUOTE="ArisShadows"][QUOTE="ThePlothole"][QUOTE="PBSnipes"][QUOTE="ArisShadows"]ThePlothole

But he would have to have a access point on his 360, a wifi addon or am I reading you guys wrong. Maybe you just talking about it working on relaying a signal, then okay.

I get it now.

My problem with them is they are not trying to add anything different to the industry. They are trying to muscle their way in and replace Sony, rather than come up with their own style and appeal. The PS3 has added Blu-Ray, internet browsing, and other multimedia features to a highly advanced system. Wii has come up with a unique brand of gaming and games that has hit a totally new audience. 360? They are throwing money at 3rd party devs to either go multiplat, switch to the 360 all together, give 360 timed exclusive release, or give 360 extra download content. That is when they are not trying to make thier own version of Gran Turismo (Forza), Final Fantasy (Lost Odyssey, etc.), or Mario/Ratchet/Sonic (Banjo Kazooie). Dont get me wrong, I think more competition was needed in the console market. Sony had a stranglehold on things, and that is usually bad news for consumers. I would just like to see a lot more innovation from M$ and less "come play on our console...please...here we bought out this title for you..."-ArchAngeL-777-

i agree. it would be better for ms to throw money at first party games. i mean really. with re5 is it really going to make people buy a 360 instead of a ps3. no..even though its a rumor so far. i think its a little too late for 360. gta 4 was the game to throw money at. 50 million should of made the 360 version come out first, if you think about sony just got 2 10 games in 2 months. it makes the ps3 look real good in a consumers eyes.

[QUOTE="MayorJohnny"]

This is my opinion, and I don't want to be flamed because I'm honest. This does not mean that I dislike the Xbox 360.

Possibly negavtive things that have been forced on the console video game business mostly buy Microsoft since 2001:

1. Shortening of video game life span.
2. Red Ring of Death
3. Paying to play on-line. This is a big deal to me.
4. No Wi-Fi.
5. Too much focus on first person shooters.
6. Lack of variety.
7. Lack of price drops.

Blackbond

1. A valid point
2. Consoles have been poorly built in the past its not new with the 360
3. This could be an issue but its not a negitive affect for the industry
4. What does not having wifi standard do to negitively affect the industry
5. Such as what FPS this year?
6. You completly fail on this point becausee 360 has the most variety in consoles
7. How does lack of price drops negitively affect the industry?

1. I completely agree and this will have a large effect on devs. Its cost so much to make a game now and if consoles are not out so long then devs cannot make any money on their games.

2. consoles have been built poorly before, but not to this extent. MS recently told us what happened and it was due to cutting corners and making parts themselves. I find it funny how they tell us this NOW and say about fixing the problem after the warramty is up. I wonder if its so people will have to buy a new 360 boosting sames.

3. completely agree again. XBL is full of so much stuff I never used to use. I now just play online on the PS3 as all I really want is to be able to chat with friends, download the occasional demo and play good lag free online games.

4. This is also an issue to me. Having wifi is great and meant I could go online the day I bought my ps3. I have a friend who just got a 360 but cvannot go online as there is no wifi. And the add on for it is expensive. You could say wires are better BUT you are only playing games online. wifi is more than enough to ensure a lag free game.

5. this is true but thats becuase this gen FPS is the most popular genre. I personally find racing games boring. I dont mind morerstorm as its fun ramming into others but I cant play forza 2 for long before I get bored and decide to go ramming other cars off the track.

6. MS is working on that.

7. This is true but for MS its not needed. the arcade 360 brings in people not looking to spend much. Its cheaper than a wii! MS does not need to do this as people still buy the console. They found the price that consumers are willing to pay something sony needs to do.

1. very true

2. ps2 had DRE, however, you are right because M$ still hasn't fixed the RROD, as the DRE was fixed within a few years.

3. i don't mind paying this gen because it's the best online and all my friends play it.

4. eh. i don't care that much, just freaking dont make the wifi adapter like 100 bucks.

5. 360 has the most variety this gen, but i do agree, there is a far too big focus on the american market and shooters.

6. 360 has the most variety this gen.

7. no reason for a price drop, 360 is selling fine, if any console needs a price drop, it's the wii. since when has repackaging a gamecube with a new controller costed 250 bucks?

I agree with your points TC.

But this does not have a negitive effect on the video game industry because nobody is buying the 360 anymore.

If anything it is good because it is showing other companies that consumers will not put up with such negative features.

people are still buying 360

1. very true

2. ps2 had DRE, however, you are right because M$ still hasn't fixed the RROD, as the DRE was fixed within a few years.

mistervengeance

The ps2 DRE problems were not fixed, even the slim models still had DRE problems, maybe to a lesser extent than the original PS2 models but the DRE problem was never entirely fixed. consumer affairs

This is my opinion, and I don't want to be flamed because I'm honest. This does not mean that I dislike the Xbox 360.

Possibly negavtive things that have been forced on the console video game business mostly buy Microsoft since 2001:

1. Shortening of video game life span.
2. Red Ring of Death
3. Paying to play on-line. This is a big deal to me.
4. No Wi-Fi.
5. Too much focus on first person shooters.
6. Lack of variety.
7. Lack of price drops.

MayorJohnny

1. And how is microsoft shortening the life span? what evidence do you have that they will drop support completely of the 360? like the xbox? as for that do you even know the story behind dropping support for the xbox? there was no way for them to lower the price, nvidia screwed them over in that regard blocking nearly every attempt to lower the price and make the nvidia graphics chip in it less pricy and more efficient. Console life span has ALL ways been 5-6 years sony hasn't changed that.
   
2. Red ring of death? sorry to say but i've never gotten it and i have 2 360's I've had a problem with my wii and none with my ps3, simple fact is RROD was exadgerated affair, and sorry but there have been just as many bad consoles made before.
3. paying to play online? how is this a bad thing? or are you gonna tell me psn and wii online are the exact match and excedance of xbox live? cause if you do then your a cow cause its a lie, its a fact xbox live offers more then both online services simple as that, and you get what you pay for a great service that will continuely be there and continue to grow, PSN I dont believe there are many servers left from old psp, and ps2 games running those games.
4. no wifi? what does this have to do with any thing? last gen nintendo had no online plan, ps2 didn't really have one either, microsoft is the only company that had a good one and they even official produced a wireless adaptor for the xbox, and the same for 360 so they DO have wifi just not wifi built in, as for that who cares? how many people here even have a homenetwork let alone an wireless one? last i checked the ps3 couldn't contect to wireless internet service providers so the whole built in wifi only works if you have an all ready existing home wireless network, and simple fact wired is vastly faster.
5. Too much focus on first person shooters? based upon? oh i know the false belief that this is the only thing available on 360, yet the 360 has more variety then the ps3 and Wii combined more games released, more varity of them higher scoring and more sales.
   
6. see 5
7. lack of price drops? you mean the ps2 within its first 2 years had 15 price drops? the gamecube?...ect sorry you only price drop when it benefits you sony did it to sell more consoles not because they wanted too, if they could have kept the ps2 at its original price of 299 i believe and it still sold? they would have.

And yes the ps2 had DRE and it was NEVER ever fixed it was kept to a minimum but never fixed sony spent nearly 3-4 years denying it ever occured till they we're taken to COURT and lost, they have threatened to sue microsoft for its RROD but there has been no real legal action cause microsoft was smart they started fixing them for free guranteed sony spend 4 years denying it and forcing people to pay for it to be fixed.

This is my opinion, and I don't want to be flamed because I'm being honest. This does not mean that I dislike the Xbox 360.

Possibly negative things that have been forced on the console video game business mostly by Microsoft since 2001, and/or just things that I think are mistakes:

1. Shortening of console life span. Microsoft seemingly had a good reason with the Xbox, though that doesn't change much. Less than a year after the release of Halo 2, Microsoft had already ceased first party support and moved on to the Xbox 360. Now, it seems that Microsoft may want to be first on the market with its next console, and I believe that this is a negative trend.
2. Red Ring of Death. This ties into the short lifespan of the original Xbox. The hardware was rushed no doubt, and it has cost them a lot of money for the extended warranties. A few months ago, I was seriously thinking about buying an Xbox 360, though the RROD honestly did lead me to deciding against the console.
3. Paying to play on-line. This is a big deal to me. I first played my PS2 on-line, then my DS and Wii, all free. I'm not interested in a lot of bells and whistles. Microsoft has missed the mark by not offering a free version of on-line; not just a free trial. The free version wouldn't need to feature everything, though casual players could at least play against other people.
4. No Wi-Fi. It's standard on PS3 and Wii. I know that many will say that "wires are better," though doesn't Xbox Live still get lag because of the lack of dedicated servers?
5. Too much focus on first person shooters. Over the last 5-6 years, it seems that consoles have tried to be PC hybrids. Sure, Halo is a fantastic game and many developers want to achieve the same success, though the FPS genre could easily tire itself out soon. no that's the ps3's problem. 360 has by far the most rpg's
6. Lack of variety. I used to own an Xbox, though I traded it in and then bought a slimline PS2. Why? Lack of variety. I really liked some of the games on the Xbox, and I thought that the custom soundtrack feature was awesome. However, there just wasn't even variety in its software. Not enough good platformer and adventure games. It was the system for FPS and racing fans, I thought. Now, I do think that variety has improved on Xbox 360, though not enough. Microsoft has still focused too much on FPS/TPS and racing games. Sure, there's Viva Pinata and Kameo: Elements of Power. Though, that's only from RARE. So is Banjo Kazooie 3: Nuts & Bolts, which now doesn't even appear to be a true next generation platformer. They can innovate without changing the fundamentals. Look at Super Mario Galaxy! lack of variety? no.
7. Lack of price drops. In the USA, Microsoft has only lowered the price of the Xbox 360 once, and that was last August. The premium package was dropped by $50. Maybe Microsoft is trying to recoup some of its loss from the RROD problem, though Microsoft has not been near aggressive enough in expanding its audience. This is one reason why the hardware sales have been in a slump lately. sales are doing fine.

So, there it is. Questions? Comments?

Please don't turn this thread into a flame fest or I will contact a MOD to lock this thread. Thanks.

MayorJohnny

This is my opinion, and I don't want to be flamed because I'm being honest. This does not mean that I dislike the Xbox 360.

Possibly negative things that have been forced on the console video game business mostly by Microsoft since 2001, and/or just things that I think are mistakes:

1. Shortening of console life span. Microsoft seemingly had a good reason with the Xbox, though that doesn't change much. Less than a year after the release of Halo 2, Microsoft had already ceased first party support and moved on to the Xbox 360. Now, it seems that Microsoft may want to be first on the market with its next console, and I believe that this is a negative trend.
2. Red Ring of Death. This ties into the short lifespan of the original Xbox. The hardware was rushed no doubt, and it has cost them a lot of money for the extended warranties. A few months ago, I was seriously thinking about buying an Xbox 360, though the RROD honestly did lead me to deciding against the console.
3. Paying to play on-line. This is a big deal to me. I first played my PS2 on-line, then my DS and Wii, all free. I'm not interested in a lot of bells and whistles. Microsoft has missed the mark by not offering a free version of on-line; not just a free trial. The free version wouldn't need to feature everything, though casual players could at least play against other people.
4. No Wi-Fi. It's standard on PS3 and Wii. I know that many will say that "wires are better," though doesn't Xbox Live still get lag because of the lack of dedicated servers?
5. Too much focus on first person shooters. Over the last 5-6 years, it seems that consoles have tried to be PC hybrids. Sure, Halo is a fantastic game and many developers want to achieve the same success, though the FPS genre could easily tire itself out soon.
6. Lack of variety. I used to own an Xbox, though I traded it in and then bought a slimline PS2. Why? Lack of variety. I really liked some of the games on the Xbox, and I thought that the custom soundtrack feature was awesome. However, there just wasn't even variety in its software. Not enough good platformer and adventure games. It was the system for FPS and racing fans, I thought. Now, I do think that variety has improved on Xbox 360, though not enough. Microsoft has still focused too much on FPS/TPS and racing games. Sure, there's Viva Pinata and Kameo: Elements of Power. Though, that's only from RARE. So is Banjo Kazooie 3: Nuts & Bolts, which now doesn't even appear to be a true next generation platformer. They can innovate without changing the fundamentals. Look at Super Mario Galaxy!
7. Lack of price drops. In the USA, Microsoft has only lowered the price of the Xbox 360 once, and that was last August. The premium package was dropped by $50. Maybe Microsoft is trying to recoup some of its loss from the RROD problem, though Microsoft has not been near aggressive enough in expanding its audience. This is one reason why the hardware sales have been in a slump lately.

So, there it is. Questions? Comments?

Please don't turn this thread into a flame fest or I will contact a MOD to lock this thread. Thanks.

MayorJohnny

I'm sorry dude, you really sound like someone who is really biased towards the 360. the RROD is a terrible thing, I can admit that, but we will live, mine died twice! I still own over 50games on disk, and over 50 on live arcade, doesnt sound like a negative thing at all, if someone else decides not to play video games anymore because of the RROD, I think I can safely say that there are a lot of us who will pick up the slack.

wi fi? buy a longer cable and stop whining.

variety? just by all the RTS's and JRPG's coming out, shows that microsoft learned their lesson.

Paying to play online, yes it sucks. I admit it, but if you can't afford to pay 50 bucks a year without crying about it, then you are in the wrong hobby to begin with. this is a damn expensive hobby and 50 extra a year is not going to kill anyone.

anyway, stop hating and play games and enjoy them man.

sorry guys cause I don't know how to link, but this article doesn't seem to agree with the TC.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6192719.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=newstop&tag=newstop;title;13