| Before the release of the original Xbox system, Microsoft's only foray into the console market was when it briefly worked with Sega. For the release of its Dreamcast system, Sega collaborated with Microsoft to develop a port of its Windows CE software. Although the console was ultimately considered a failure, that didn't dissuade Microsoft from experimenting with video game consoles again. In November of 2001, Microsoft launched the Xbox system to scrutiny and harsh criticism. Gamers and industry professionals were a little put off by the console's immense stature and its bloated controller. Microsoft's launch lineup of games was also considered to be rather weak, with the exception of Halo, which was a critical success and received the 2001 Game of the Year award. Over time, the Xbox system did gain in popularity, likely due to features that separated it from other consoles. The Xbox Live service allowed gamers to play with one another over the Internet, which can go a long way to increasing a game's lasting appeal. The integrated hard drive was another appealing feature unique to the Xbox system. This allowed gamers to create their own in-game soundtracks and to download content from Xbox Live. Microsoft felt that the original Xbox system was enough of a success to develop and release the Xbox 360 console. This next-generation Xbox console has improved upon areas that definitely needed them and enhanced the original's strong points. The Xbox 360 was designed to be much smaller in size compared to the original console, and it comes bundled with a 20 GB removable hard drive and a wireless controller. Microsoft seems to have done everything right with its newest system, which will certainly make things exciting during the console wars of the next few years. |
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