Xbox 360 Core Discontinued? Xbox 360 Premium takes Core place at 299?

"...the Core pack will be canceled, the Premium will drop to 299 euro, the black HDMI-supporting 360 will be launched this May, and finally Halo 3 will hit stores right before Christmas 2007. Too good to be true? Read on!"

[OldSchoolGamer]

and want to report this as duplicate, please show me the link where it is approved and on the site. I know its not Sony news, but this is News 4 Gamers, not News 4 Sony Gamers. I love the PS3 too, but can we read about other systems too? They all have good games, and interesting stuff should be read. This is original show me a link to the "copied" story and I will remove it myself. Since sony fan boys went and claimed this was old because it hit 120 degrees on the pending page and let me post some comments:

ironwolf - 40 Minutes ago

PM
Track
Ignore
8 - I looked for....
and found no duplication. I believe a deliberate attempt at suppression is evident.
Agree(0) | Disagree(0) | Report | Reply

dalectrics - 17 Minutes ago

PM
Track
Ignore
9 - 'Approve'
This is good and relevant news - there is no reason this should not get to the front page. Story approvals needed (and what's with the duplicate reports?)

[OldSchoolGamer]

Why you ask? Because Microsoft has a habit of dropping bombs before or after Sony does, and guess what? Hint...Sony has something going on in Europe.

[D R Fz]

OldschoolGamer, the summary is too long. Make the adjustments and i'll approve. No need for unnecessary sentiments.

[OldSchoolGamer]

Thought you meant the title lol, I was like "xbox 360 dicontinued?" is too long? lol. Lets see what happens, if it gets approved will remove comments, but so far this has been bad case of Non-Sony Censorship, while Sony stories repeated get dual postings. Ok well now that my story is exactly how everyone wants, one paragraph enjoy.

[ironwolf]

Drop the second paragraph from the summary, leave only the intro paragraph.

[PinkPrincess83]

How is it too long? I think it is very well written. For people to listen sometimes more information is better. People don't like to be left hanging. Just read it and have fun!

[ironwolf]

are in the first paragraph. Leave the details for the full article.

Looks good OldSchool. See if they try to kill it now.

[OldSchoolGamer]

Betting some of this or all gets officially annouced prior to or just after the PS3 launch. High end Xbox 360 for 100 less would be a bomb, more gamers could check out Gears for less. I would think a Wii price cut will come this Christmas too, which is good for Sony fans, cause they would be crazy not to follow suit.

[FeralPhoenix]

I think it would be better if CONTRIBUTORS try to stick as close as possible to the original source's title....something I mentioned just a couple of days ago on a post and this is one of the reason I feel that way because I knew it would become a problem with people not in "favor" of the title because of the way its worded, by the contributor. However in this case I don't think you can be accused of "adding" your personal opinion to the headline of this news because you simply "added" the same question to your headline that the original article itself states(rumored) is going to happen; "Xbox 360 Core discontinued?" I'm definitely going to approve this news, but again IMO, its very important for everyone to follow the guidelines for the site and try not to edit the headlines as they appear from the original source. I understand CONTRIBUTORS want to attract attention, but that "want" shouldn't outweigh the "need" for all the readers to judge the news based on its content NOT the headline that the contributor may think is more "exciting", -which I'm not accusing you of but I can imagine it very easily getting out of hand.

Now as for the news itself, "IF" its true I think it will be good news for all of those who really want "HDMI", for now component is just fine for me, but I definitely want a bigger hard drive....and of course the price drop on the premium version should definitely sell a few more systems....damm, at that price you would have to be crazy not to "jump in" -LOL, no not really, I guess some people only want a console if it has their particular brand name on it, I never argue with personal choice but I do think that price is very very attractive. We'll see.

[EDIT] ha, DC RID3R already beat me to it.

[OldSchoolGamer]

The title and the story were copied cut and paste in their entirety on my first attempt to get this approved. This was promptly decided as old and duplicate, 40 minutes after posting and 1 hour after it hit the web. Lol, well I did a search and the closest thing was the 360 black coming in May. That is the only part that was remotely similar, I think most the Sony boys read that part and decided hey this isn't about Sony what is this doing on our website. I understand where you are coming from have read some pretty twisted titles that completely change the outlook and meaning of an article, as far as I know, I have never done that and invite reproach from anyone who can show otherwise.

Anyway, when I approve stories for this site, the only question I ask myself; have I read this on here before? I've approved some bad ones that I notice later hey I missed the story cause it got moderator single approval and never stayed on the front page even 30 minutes. If I can say with certainty, that yes I have in fact read it I will do a duplicate report. If its the ninth time I have seen a story submitted, in different format each day, every day of the week, then it might get an old (sometimes with a duplicate). Shouldn't matter what the news is about console, pc, or tech news; it should be about is this news? Would others like to know about, or possibly see this information? At least, that is what I thought this site was about, but then again I could be wrong.

[HighPs3v2]

Although ive been wanting the black hdmi 360 forever so hope its true. Why wouldnt they have announced it themselves?

[Gamer luv]

If they where to anounce, i guess they want to try and steal the press from Sony's Europe Launch...

[Bullseye]

While the cancellation of the core pack seems like a good idea, it sort of negates, to some extent, the recent introduction of the half gig memory card.Why would you want half gig memory card if hdd becomes standard?I Don't get the black hdmi model at all, i think this is just rumour talk.

[power of Green]

Nah! it's dam close to E3 there will be leaks everywhere I doubt MS cares about "HOME" and a home made arcade like title, they're too busy with there own visions.

Anyways i doubt you even have an HDTV let alone needing a HDMI ready console, people that have them(HDTV's) and is able to use HDMI know better than to say a console's not worth buying without HDMI. lol

[PureGamer]

Good bit of news, still doesnt warrant a purchase from moi, im still waiting for some good games, ill pick one up in octoberish.

[FeralPhoenix]

Well I have a 50" Sony plasma HDTV of course it has HDMI but its highest res is 1080i,(which still looks awesome compared to what I see in the stores) so I don't think HDMI vs component will make much of a "noticeable" difference for me, but like I said I'm interested in the larger HDD....the point is that I'm sure there are some who are interested in this version, and for you to say; "im still waiting for some good games" -kind of just sounds like you have a particular kind of "tunnel vision"....and yet you call someone else a fanboy. -LOL, the things kids say these days.

[Gamer luv]

I would rather that the people posting the news, would copy and paste the article into the summary, and then leave the link as proof, as i cant stand having to many web browsers open.

As for the story, it seems highly believable.

Existing core oweners aren't being shut out, some stores have confirmed that they will have a black xbox 360 unit with HDMI and 120 gb hard drive, and ive also seen it in the news paper advertised.

And you really think MS are going to leave Sony's europe launch be?

I think they will do lots of things...

They will use price drops, packagaes, anounce big news, release the Video Market Place in europe, countless amount of content will be added to XBL, games will be anounced, just to make justifying that price difference even harder.

[the_bebop]

Does anyone feel worryed that releasing a third SKU is going to be bad for the Xbox, even sony sseems to be re-thinking the Idea of two SKU's. As for droping the core pack I could see this happening since it is easier and cheaper to manufacture and package one type of unit, also as far as know the core pack dosen't sell well here in Australia.

[Bullseye]

More SKU's out there is not a good thing.It may lead to confusion for the average buyer and you have to be careful and make sure all are compatible.If this is true, i think MS are just trying to compensate for early mistakes i.e no standard hdd or hdmi and small hdd where supplied.

[Lucidmantra]

Yeah well all 3 companies are compensating for early mistakes right now so they can have a more compelling arguement about why they are better. It happens. But I don't think the v1 360 premium is a mistake it works perfectly for me. I dont want a HDDVD and when they releease the bigger HDD I will probibly upgrade.

[THE TERMINATOR]

"They will use price drops, packagaes, anounce big news, release the Video Market Place in europe, countless amount of content will be added to XBL, games will be anounced, just to make justifying that price difference even harder."
To no avail 360 just isnt big in europe no one seems to want one, its either ps3 or wii.

[Captain Tuttle]

Do you have any legitimate numbers to back up your claim?

[caffman]

Tell that the the multitude of people on Xboxlive. And as for the PS3 being the choice of europe do you have a cystal ball? If so could you tell me who is going to win the 3.30 at chepstowe tomorrow.
My local Hmv have a sign outside saying that they can meet all pre orders for PS3 and also any walk in buyers. They have bought in LESS PS3s than 360s on launch and the 360 sold out and was unavailable for 4 months as every console that came in was instantly sold. Now I realise that this is one shop in the UK but it could be a sign of the times.

[xbox360migs]

I don't know where you got your info but I live in the UK and I know loads of people with a 360 or planning on getting one.

[Grown Folks Talk]

i'm still trying to figure out how someone can disagree with a question.

[Balance]

thats odd because if you jump on XBL in the early afternoons there are a ton of europeans on there.

[StateofMind]

I thought Microsoft said HDMI wasn't necessary...

Oh well, it's good news for someone who wants to upgrade their console every other year like a PC I guess.

[USMChardcharger]

Microsoft did say it was not necessary, but the consumer said other wise.

you still will not need HDMI until Hollywood starts the Copy right protection deal.

and that probably will not be needed until the next consoles come out.

[StateofMind]

What are they going to do?

[sak500]

@state of mind "I thought Microsoft said HDMI wasn't necessary... :

And i thought Sony said rumble is last gen technology?

[Contra26]

It's called 'POS'.....piece of sh!t.

[blackmagic8103]

there is no need for that kind of fanboyism. and even if this does come true all it shows that m$ is in fact scared of the ps3 otherwise they wouldn't do something like that.

[Hayabusa 117]

Microsoft is a business. It would be idiotic for a business not to respond to what their competition is doing. Likewise for sony and Nintendo...

[Syko]

If they released the 512MB Memory Card for existing core and and then proceed to discontinue the core. The price drop really needs to be $100 anything less would be a mistake. HDMI I don't need but the 120HDD would be cool, but still wouldn't be in a huge rush to get it as I just stream everything I need anyway.

[Black Republican]

this will be a great move on behalf of microsoft...
good tactic againts ps3

putting the 360premium to core price and xbox360 version2 the premium price

[Sphinx]

it may almost be time for me to get a 2nd 360.

[Martin]

If the above 'rumours' are correct, it would seem possible - if not sensible of MS to give a cheaper upgrade option hdd, to allow 'catch up'.

That said, it would be almost bearable if my 360 suddenly dies on me, an excuse like that would give me no other option but to get a new one. :)

[Dusk]

The current premium version at 299 is a steal and is really all the average gamer needs. My one big complaint at the 360's launch was not including a HDD standard. Big mistake on MS's part, but it seems that most people that have purchased a Core have gone ahead and bought a HDD (judging by 360 HDD sales). If this new 360 version and its features are true, pricing it below the PS3 retains a big selling point for the 360.

Oh, and HIGHPS3v2, MS isn't concerned in the least about Sony's 'Home' anouncement. Right now, it's just more Sony hype. Let's wait and see how it actually turns out and how many people actually care about it. In some cases, streamlined is better.

Conan, if Europeans don't care about the 360, then why have a few million been sold so far in Europe? What, were they all gifts for Europeans who didn't want one?

[PS3Wii]

Microsoft is doing it again and screwing over everyone who bought the Core unit just like they screwed the xbox 1 gamers!

Xbox 720 is already being worked on and every 360 user will be left out in the cold unless they have the $$$$$ to upgrade every 4 years..lol.

Get a real game console. Not a PC crammed in a nice looking box.

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

Now this is what I was talking about in another room when I said I give these kinda fans Sh!t but really I don’t need to (but I will anyway) you seem to a good job of all on your own. This part of the comment won’t make any sense to you but it will to someone else.

This part is for you. Does this news scare you or does the prospect of a console company that actually listens to its costumers and fans frighten you? This console isn’t forceRAY and MS knows when to shut up and take notice of what its costumers want, not what kind they can force on you (windows not included that’s an accidental monopoly). The 360 fans including myself took it to MS and said “hey you know what would be a good thing, giving us what we want and MS instead of telling us what we wanted said “here you go”
That is goooood costumer relations and its what sets MS apart in this generation. They give us services, security, movies, TV, music, and most importantly GAMES. Not every one wishes to use there console for movies or TV but the option is still there if they want it. Most important those people that were saving money to buy the premium can now smile as they get it $100 cheaper and those who want the ultimate console can now have the black Mustang in there homes to show off to all there nerdy friends (including this one)

[fjtorres]

One, if you read the article carefully it becomes clear MS has quietly cut the wholesale price of the Premium 360 without mandating a retail price cut. This is the kind of thing you do when you're phasing out a product. Makes me think it is the 20Gb Premium that is going away, *not* the Core.

Two, discontinuing the core is really a stupid thing to do. It is Sony-centric thinking. Stop and think guys: its March 2007, not March 2009. Right now, PS3 is no threat to 360. The real threat is Nintendo which is making the point that *price* matters more than features. Well, the best way to fight a price war (which MS has explicit said it is prepared to fight) is with the 360 core. You don't get rid of your best weapons *before* a battle.

So, what could MS be up to?
Well, it could be a simple case of quietly cutting wholesale prices to encourage retailers to do special bundles and discounts just before the PS3 launch to take some wind out of their sails. If its true that a third of the limited euro PS3 allocation is still unsold, then it is working.

Or, MS could really be planning to realign/re-price their 360 product line come E3 in July to better deal with Nintendo.

How?

Well, three SKU's is a non-starter, we're all agreed, no?
But if they fix what is wrong with the Core and ship it with the component cable instead of composite and throw in the Headset and maybe the cheapie remote control and price it at $229-249, they'll have a nice tool to fight Nintendo; same or lower price but you get HD, media capabilities, and upgradability. Then, they drop the price of the $20Gb drive to, say $80, and intro a bigger one at $149-169. Let the customer choose. 512Mb, 20Gb, 80-160 or whatever.
That matches the features of the current Premium so the 20Gb premium can vanish.
The new Premium slides in at $349-399 with the bigger driver, the wireless controller and an old game or two, or maybe built-in 811.n wireless.
Wham! Bam! You have the pricing high ground on both Nintendo and Sony and you still get to milk the customer base with accessories.

MS wants to keep its 10 million installed base lead.
You don't do that by dropping your entry-level product; you do it by undercutting both your opponents.
There is too much PS3 angst and too little appreciation for what Nintendo has achieved.
This year, MS has to focus more on Nintendo.
Sony is a problem for later if they ever get back into the game.
But that can wait until FF XIII and MGS4 actually ship.
Last year, the game was "first to 10 Million."
This year, the real game is "first to $200".

Oh, and HDMI?
Before worrying about HDMI, guys, worry about overscan.
The reason VGA looks better than other connections out there is HDTV don't overscan the VGA port but they sure as heck overscan the HDMI.
Unless you have a one of the handful of sets that *don't* overscan HD content, you're deluding yourselves if you think HDMI has anything to offer over component, much less VGA. What HDMI giveth (and theoretically it *should* be a lot) the idiot manufacturers take away with overscan.

[OldSchoolGamer]

Stores tend to pass on the savings on systems because accessories are where a retail store makes the real money. The reason I can't see them bundling more accessories for cheaper is that would piss of retail. Games have never made retailers more than a few dollars a copy, while accessories are usually 50% profit for a retailer. Which is why I hate Microsoft's accessories, for that much product make headsets that don't break so easily and rechargable battery packs that dont just go dead, and recharging cables that you look at, they go bad, you have to fiddle with them to get the red light.

But this makes them the most money...sorry I drifted a little. Nintendo from both Sony and Microsoft is less of a competitor than a complimentory item. Microsoft is less worried about competition from Nintendo, than they are with Sony (and vice versa). Nintendo has an innovative input, but that is hardly difficult to replicate, a la Sony's six axis and a 360 add on has been rumored. Nintendo isn't aimed at being a media center like the PS3 and 360 are, where video, music, and head to head gaming is key.

So the focus is 360 vs Sony and in that regard (as the corporations see it) when consumers have to choose between $600 for what is perceived as High Definition Next Generation and $300 for similar features, or even $400-$450 for the black model with bigger hard drive and HDMI, price point will sell more units, simply by pointing out value. The other great point here is Sony would cut their prices making there system more available cost wise which would make me happy as well, as I could justify picking one up for less cash down the road when a couple blockbusters release.

Although who knows you could be right on, the core does force some accessory purchases, but I can't see the premium getting dropped as it sells much better than the core currently, as customer recognize that value.

[fjtorres]

...just the 20Gb (current) premium...
...To make room for the enhanced Premium.
Anybody that wants a 20Gb 360 gets the Core + the 20Gb drive.
those that want the big drive with the extra features gets the *new* premium.
Or maybe they really have PS3 on the brain like their fans.
Dunno. Me, I'd prefer to squash Nintendo now. Sony knows to squash themselves just fine. They don't need microsoft's help for that. ;-)

[HighPs3v2]

Does anyone actually know whether this is true or not? Or when Microsoft would announce this?

[fjtorres]

Its just speculation and reading tea leaves.
Gotta have something to do while we wait for Shivering Isles to be released. :-)

[Gamer luv]

The black Xbox is coming out, ive seen it advertised in newspapers, stores have it in there system, it will happen.

As for dropping the core, make it officialy cheaper.
There are some places in the UK (Asda) where you can pick up an Xbox 360 Core package for less then the Nintendo Wii, what are you going to chose, a less expensive HD gaming machine, or the Wii?

I think dropping the Core is bad thing, make the Premium the old price of the Core, i dont know what it is in America, and then make the core even cheaper.

That way, you have something in a VERY simlar price range as the Wii, which offers so much more, an enhanced version with HDD, and maybe throw in some addons, ie games, ctonroller etc.. And then there will be the Black one, with the HDMI and the 120 gb hard drive, (even tho i feel HDMI is not needed, and 120gb is enough)

Now we have something better then the Wii, for less.
Something which competes with PS3 for under half the price,
And then something which offers pretty much the same as the PS3, for less of the price.

[bszelda]

Does this possibly mean that there will be a price drop in the US?! I hope so! I don't have a 360 yet and I plan on buying one... :D:D:D

[candystop]

This is good news for 360 if true and can you guys imagine how certain games features will improve if games are all made to take advantage of the hdd if the core disappears! Also xboxlive is about to get even better with iptv and a slew of other features which i'm sure are going to require a much bigger hdd!

[NextGen24Gamer]

Its pretty much common sense stuff. When MS releases the HDMI/120 gig "new" version of the 360...the price of the Premium would drop to that of the core. What I didn't suspect or see coming is the cancelling of the core. I would have liked to see the core drop to 199 to directly compete price wise with the Wii. But we will see how it all pans out. I also knew it would be on or about the same time as the PS3 launch to the "rest of the world". MS has always had impeccable timing when it comes to stuff like this. SO the premium will be 299 and the "new" maxed out 360 will be anywhere from 400 to 480 max. One other thing is MS at that time will release a 120 gig hard drive for those who want to upgrade their current 360 and a hdmi adapter/cord for the current 360's....Me personally, I can't wait. I would love to get the HDMI 360 with the 120 gig drive. HDMI does look slightly sharper than componant. I mostly see it on text in games and movies....its not mind blowing sharper....but it is sharper. I just wish MS would hurry up and announce this stuff. I know they want it to be a surprise but "Make it official" Soon .

[DJ]

Where've you been?! =P j/p dude. I have not seen a single core unit in stores for a looong time (kinda like the 20Gig PS3s). Good to see you changed your mind on HDMI though. So say the new version with HDMI does come out. Would you replace all of your 360's, or just one? (you have one HDTV, right?)

[EasilyTheBest]

Not in a million years, well perhaps in about 10 years time then...
Having the Core gives Microsoft a cheap way to get ppl in2 360 gaming. They have a huge advantage here over Sony with price. The hard drive not being in the Core jkeeps the price right down... Yes Drives do come down in price but only so far comparded to chips etc...

[MissAubrey]

It will be dropped if the premium can match its price. and casual gamers will still buy it because its price point

[MissAubrey]

and component or VGA because I got me a 40" 1080p tv coming to me tomorrow and I'd like to know.

[BenzMoney]

...all depends. First of all, your tv might not accept a 1080p signal through component - few do. It probably won't have a VGA port on it either. Component is an analog communication medium - so your signal is susceptible to elecromagentic interference (EMI noise) that could degrade or distort your signal. HOWEVER, analog cables are typically shielded from noise and there really shouldn't be very much noise in your gaming environment to begin with.

HDMI is a digital signal so it is essentially immune to noise (unless the noise is so extreme that the receiver is no longer able to discern between a high or a low, 0 or 1). Therefore digital is lossless - what you see is what you were intended to see. Analog has some margin for error, but unless you're a complete dimwit in setting it up (or an elitist who thinks its HDMI or the highway) then it should look just fine. In fact, it should look amazing - almost as good, if not just as good, as HDMI. Assuming, of course, that your tv will accept a 1080p analog signal which is very likely will not.

[MissAubrey]

should be fun tomorrow.

[lil bush]

well just like ms, sony should get rid of thoughs 20GB cuase who wants the cheaper version of a console

[NextGen24Gamer]

Well after watching and comparing over and over again...HDMI is a little sharper. And I can see it more so in the text. Its a little "cleaner" if I may say so.

As far as replacing all of my 360's....ha ha ha.... No way in the world will I do that. I will just buy the hdmi adapter/cable for those when the cable is released. Common sense tells me it will be available at the same time as the "new" 360. The Black 360 is "ALL MINE"...And I have 6 HD Tv's. Two 1080p tvs. The rest are 1080i/720p tvs.

To the guy asking about hdmi vs vga/componant...

From what I have seen personally....hdmi offers a slightly cleaner/sharper signal quality....it took me a while to notice it....but after a month of comparing....I can say hdmi is a tad better than componant...and as far as componant vs vga...I can say clearly that componant is better than vga...I have both options for my 360 and componant shows deeper colors than vga but the sharpness is about the same. Now if you plan on watching hd dvd's....via componant for the 360 you will only get 1080i and games will be the full 1080p. When I first purchased my hd dvd add on for the 360 I was getting the full 1080p for movies...but then one day it stopped. I don't know how that works...or what happened...but I now only get 1080i via componant for HD Movies. Now with the vga cable I get 1080p for movies. But, switching back and forth...I still say that componant even in 1080p for movies looks a tad better than vga....Is there a difference between 1080i and 1080p.....YES. Both look the same as far as details and sharpness....but....1080p is notibly smoother looking. You have to konw what to be looking for to see the difference...but its there. I have friends that can't see the difference. But I have been comparing long enough now that I can tell the difference. I hope that helps you.

BenzMoney - You got a few things wrong buddy. First of all....90% of HD Tv's have a vga input on the tv.

Secondly... If its an HD TV that was released late 2006 to NOW...it will recieve 1080p via componant, vga, and hdmi. The earlier tv's won't even recieve 1080p via hdmi. The only problem with componant is that for movies it will only tranmit 1080i but it will do 1080p for Games.

So its more a matter of how "new" your tv is. But if you go to Best Buy now...every 1080p tv has a vga input. Its so people can plug their computers up to it. Its very common.

And for your comment you just put up after mine...I don't know what your goal or purpose is by lying yourself buddy. 90% of HD tvs have vga inputs. Go to Best buy...not the website. Many times on the website it won't state all the inputs a tv has. But I just bought another TV from best buy and every single tv I looked at had vga inputs...some had it and it didn't even state it on the display card...I actually got behind them and looked myself. You come across arguementative...I don't know why...but you spreading mis information isn't cool buddy. All anyone has to do is go to their local store and they will see that you are full of it buddy. vga is pretty standard in HD tvs. My samsungs have it, my sharp aquas have it and my sony has it. So I have no clue what your problem is. Vga is for computer hookup...and most hd tvs allow for computer hook up buddy.

[BenzMoney]

Well I checked the Best Buy website, searched for 1080p and looked at the first four results - 2 out of the 4 had VGA inputs. Not quite "all" as you put it. I don't know why you'd lie about something so pointless, but apparently you did? It's irrelevant anyways.

The fact is that not ALL HDTVs made in 2006 and on take 1080p via component. And not ALL HDTVs being sold today have VGA inputs, let alone 90% of the HDTVs out there (I know because I own one that doesn't.)

It is worth mentioning that to someone who is unsure of what all the acronyms mean so they can try to sort things out and understand what it is they're buying/using - that way they can get the best out of their purchase.

[Zhoutai]

Its kinda funny that no one here cares that Microsoft first said HDMI was completely useless and after seeing that Sony was doing well with it they had to have it. Oh well though, if they cut the price I'm gonna get a 360, PS60 all the way!

[Covenant]

How Sony knocked MS's emulation-based backwards compatibility...and now they're doing it in Europe.

How they said "rumble is last-gen" and then said "we're open to changing the sixaxis."

Statements from game companies--and that includes MS and HDMI-denial--are best taken with a BIG grain of salt.

[Grown Folks Talk]

hdmi wasn't needed at the time, however, if the market and or consumer demand dictated, they could adapt.

[Gamer luv]

Dude MS still say its unnessecary, but the people want it.

When most people have a 1080p tv, then maybe its the right thing to do, but to include it in consoles, when it will up the price.
The largest audience for gaming are young, and many of them kids, and being able to afford a 1080p TV is hard for kids, without a job.

At this point in time, MS have it better of, as if people want the HDMI, they will buy the HDMI set, if they dont want it, they stick with what they want, but PS3 users, either way your stuck with it, and the cost, as little as it may be, evey little helps.

[ALIEN]

i bought my 360 last month. i think the black 360 looks better, f!@# that, i'm not gonna sell my 360 or whatever, just to buy the black one.

By the way, MS is trying to be like SONY, u know, ps3 is black, and now the 360 is going to be black, u see what i mean.

if MS drop the 360 price, then something is going on! or maybe MS knows that SONY got something that it's going to be a bomb, just think about it for a moment, KILLZONE 2 maybe?

something is going on, i don't wanna say MS is scared! nope, i don't wanna say that.

[HaKeRsCanRotINHEL]

No. Does Sony own the rights/copyright/patent too the color black, give me a FU<K'in break man! If they ( M$ ) drop the consoles price, good for us. Scared!nope never.

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

Oh I’m sure MS will implement some sore of trade in policy for those with warranty coverage.

[smokeandapancake]

So, you do know that there have been other "black consoles" in the past. My Atari was black and I don't remember there being a playstation back then. Killzone 2? A threat? You know Halo is like the highest grossing entertainment ever, Right? Wikipedia, look it up.

[HaKeRsCanRotINHEL]

annouces it, I'll believe it!

[PinkPrincess83]

I am not sure if you are aware, but the original XBOX is black. Are you completely retarded? I hardly think that Microsoft wants to be anything like Sony. Wow. and you think Killzone is going to be something? I dont think so. Halo 3 in the first week will out sell Killzone in the first month. Halo 3 is going to be a system seller. God why are people so dumb. And why would Microsoft be scared of sony when they could buy them out? You need to try researching son. Come back when you have something smart to say. Fanboy

[PS3Wii]

Microsoft can't buy Sony.

Revenue in 2006:

Sony: $63.9 Billion

Microsoft: $44.2 Billion

http://en.wikipedia.org/wik...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wik...

[Zhoutai]

Xbox was black yes but that's last generation. If we're going by that then PSone was white, not the orignal Playstation but PSone the portable one. So you just contradicted yourself. This is the New generation and Xbox is doing something Sony is doing. If color doesnt convince you then the HDMI add on should, Microsoft orignally stated they thought HDMI was useless and had no use for it, but guess what? They are useing it. And Killzone 2 will be a great game no matter what. See Sony is confident about Killzone 2 so you know it will be great especially if they are releasing in-game screens in the next OPM this month. But Halo 3 has everything to lose, halo is the greatest shooter game out there and it might not be for very long. And Microsoft could not buy out Sony. If they did they would be so low on money they could get bought out by Nintendo. Sony is a huge giant, Sony isnt to far behind Microsoft, so saying crap like that isnt very smart dude. Sony is a huge gaming giant and is and will remain the gaming collosus because they have history behind them. Peace out

[The great 1]

Sony= not for sale, what is it with all these people thinking MS can buy out everyone, no they can't so they have sh*t loads of cash so what, that doesn't mean they can buy everone out, you are obviously blinded by what you believe, Sony is a far better games company than MS, Ms is just trying to put there grubby big fat stubby greedy hands where they don't belong and there gonna get there as* handed to them. Halo is the most overated franchise ever, followed by games such as the sims, the awfull GRAW and bla bla bla, i could go on but hey, i got better things to do than argue al day about whether or not you want MS to succed, in it's greedy conquest for what? i'd really love to know there motive, because there not very good at what they do, they have to resort to handing over bribes, they just can't accept it there not fan faviorites like Sony, Sony Rules, MS SUcks, anybody who replies to this will lose a bubble i'm sure of it ahhahahahahahaha.

[TylerDurden]

The value of a company is determined by its market cap not how much revenue they generate. Market cap is price of stock multiplied by the nunber of outstanding shares. Microsoft's market cap is 260 billion:
http://moneycentral.msn.com...

Sony's market cap is 51 billion:
http://moneycentral.msn.com...

So MS is more than 5 times more valuable than Sony. If MS wanted they could buy over more than half of the available shares and basically take over the board and do whatever they want with the company. In fact MS could pay for Sony in cash.

[drfunkenstein]

Thank you Mr. Durden for being among the few (and only one who voiced it) who understand market economics. I was eager to respond in almost the exact manner -- kudos to you my friend.

In death, members of Project Mayhem have names!!!

[ALIEN]

did say KILLZONE 2 is going to be better than HALO, nope, i didn't

i own a 360, and i think it's a good console, and i don't think ps3 is way better than 360, i'm just saying what i think.

I was gonna say something stupid about ya, but im not going to say none, but if u wanna blame me, ok go ahead and do it, ur behind ur computer, so all ur doing is talking s!@# u can't do none, and u don't even know me. Im not a fanboy!

NOW THANK U FOR UR OPINION! HAVE A GREAT DAY.

[ALIEN]

How u know HALO 3 is going to out sell KILLZONE 2? r u GOD? they are not even out yet.

[ALIEN]

I'm sorry if i said something bad about 360! i just saying what i think, im not saying nothing bad.

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

Hey is anyone else glad ALIEN used all his bubbles.

[Ravenator529]

Then Sony is going to have more trouble ahead.

The bottom line point is that you would be able to pick up a 360 for $299 while the cheapest PS3 would run $499. Done deal! That is all that is going to matter.

The fraction of gamers that post on this site are miniscule in number when compared to the entire gaming community as a whole. Price whether you want to believe it or not is the number one factor when choosing the next gen system. Even if you choose the more expensive system, it is still the first thing that is considered.

Think about it, a premium 360 that costs $50 more than a Wii! Which as you all know the Wii is half the machine that the 360 is. Then you have a PS3 that is $200 more than a premium 360.

Granted, that is all contingent upon this rumored price drop being fact or fiction.

Lets just wait and see though. Everyone is getting worked up over a rumor at this point.

[shotty]

They should change the premium name to just xbox 360 and then use the label for the new machine.

[NextGen24Gamer]

I typcially don't resort to busting people out on this site anymore...but you asked for it. Please stop spreading false information. We all have access to the internet buddy...Here is a link to best buy and its 1080p tvs...

Most of them clearly state that they support vga input. Many support dvi input as well.

The few that don't say on the front page that they support vga...if you click on them...it takes you to the page that shows more specifically what they have. And you will find that even most of those support vga.

One thing you need to also understand is that a tv that supports dvi or hdmi only....is ok for people who want to use vga. At radio shack you can pick up a vga to dvi or vga to hdmi connector for under 14.99 buddy. So really a non issue for a guy who wants to use vga. But like I said...90 % of hd tvs have vga inputs....and for the few that don't..."like you supposively"....you can pic up a very inexpensive adapter at radio shack.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site...

http://sewelldirect.com/dvi...

[BenzMoney]

Look kid - you obviously think you have all the answers, but it's blatantly obvious to anyone who knows anything about electronics (or just has access to the internet) that you know next to nothing.

First of all, I am not spreading "false information" - if anyone is doing that, it is you. You said that all HDTVs at Best Buy have VGA inputs on them. They don't. I called you out on that. It's not a big deal, I wasn't trying to start a big fight over it, I was simply pointing out that it isn't true that all HDTVs these days come with VGA inputs on them. I don't need you to give me links, because I already said that I checked the website in my last post. Why would I need to check again? (Remember the part about how I searched for '1080p' and looked at the top 4 results - and yes, that includes clicking on the item and reading through its specifications). 2 of the first 4 did not have VGA inputs on them. Plain and simple. So who is spreading false information?

Secondly, I'm well aware of what a VGA to DVI adapter is. The problem is that these adapters are VGA to DVI-I because of the nature of the VGA signal (being analog). Most DVI inputs on both HDTVs and monitors are DVI-D and therefore the adapter won't work. If you don't know what the difference is between DVI-I and DVI-D, then don't even bother replying.

Lastly, you have no idea how to use quotation marks and you seem to like to make up words that aren't even in the english language. How am I "supposively" to take you seriously? I'm an electrical engineer - I've taken numerous courses in communications and signal processing (both discrete and continuous time). I know how the stuff works inside and out. Next time you try "busting people out" make sure you don't make a fool out of yourself by picking someone who knows 100x more about the subject than you do.

[NextGen24Gamer]

This isn't grammer school its the internet. I can "use" quotations "any" way I want to..... You try to come across like you know a smidget of information...but its clear to anyone who has been apart of this site for any length of time that you know very little. lol....oh, and lol means lots of laughs buddy. I know its not in the english language... Now its interesting that you make claims about vga to dvi...I have one...and it works on my tv. There is more than one type of adapter. Then you say you did a search to see if my 90% figure was correct but yet claimed that 2 of the first 4 didn't have vga inputs....well with the link I provided....I proved you wrong and a liar. Not only that...even if you had told the truth...who takes 4 tvs and makes a conclusion on it being representative of all the tvs? I said 90% of hd tvs. 4 isn't a good sample group to attempt to prove me wrong with. Nice try. But you aren't fooling anyone on this site. Next time you attempt to discredit me...."get informed" on the subject for which you speak on. Thanks in advance buddy.

1. 90% of hd tvs have vga slots.

2. there are vga to dvi adapters on the market for those unlucky few that don't have vga.

3. the purpose of vga is so your hd tv/monitor can be used with your computer. thats why "most" hd tvs have vga inputs.

4. It soon won't matter when MS releases the hdmi adapter/cable for current 360's and the "new" version which this article is about.

p.s. 4 of the first 4 results have vga inputs. hmmmmm....click the link buddy. I typed in 1080p tvs in best buy search. So the real question is who are you trying to fool?

[BenzMoney]

It's clear to anyone who's been a part of this site that I know very little? Well, if that's the case, then please - by all means, enlighten me. What is it that I don't know?

Here's your EXACT statement from your first post:

"But if you go to Best Buy now...every 1080p tv has a vga input. Its so people can plug their computers up to it. Its very common."

A quick search of the best buy site reveals the following:

Toshiba 1080p 62" Widescreen DLP Projection HDTV** (62HM196)

http://www.bestbuy.ca/catal...

Sharp Aquos 46" 1080p Widescreen LCD HDTV** (LC46D62U)

http://www.bestbuy.ca/catal...

Notice the distinct lack VGA inputs? Also notice that these are 1080p sets? In other words, not ALL 1080p sets have VGA inputs on them! You can either admit that you lied, or that you exaggerated or you can be a condesending prick - I don't care. The fact remains that not all 1080p tvs have VGA inputs on them! Period.

As for whether 90% of all hdtvs (1080p or otherwise) have VGA inputs on them, I seriously doubt that's true. But I'm not going to go searching the internet for a larger sample to get a more accurate number in an attempt to prove you wrong because frankly I just don't care. My original post was simply to let "haloalldaylo" know that a VGA port may not be on his new tv.

1) 90%, huh? 90% of ALL hdtvs? Give me a break. While its true that many NEW hdtvs have VGA ports on them, to say that 90% of all of them do is just plain stupid. It was almost unheard of until a few years ago.

2) Like I said, VGA to DVI adapters take an ANALOG VGA signal and convert it to an ANALOG DVI signal - there are not different kinds. Any VGA-DVI adapter carries the EXACT same analog signal - they are all VGA to DVI-I (with only the analog portion of the DVI-I cable activated, since DVI-I is capable of carrying both digital and analog signals). They don't magically re-digitize the signal in the adapter! Since you are obviously unfamiliar with the technology, I'll explain... There are several types of DVI. Most of the DVI ports on tvs (and monitors) are DVI-D (digital only). The reason for this is that HDCP encryption is digital and thus requires a digital video signal to work. Television manufacturers are putting digital DVI-D ports (as well as HDMI) on tvs under pressure from the film industry so that devices become HDCP compliant and the movie studios can then start protecting the IPs from copyright infringement. Only DVI-D and HDMI have the ability to be HDCP compliant. Therefore, there is little incentive for manufacturers to put DVI-I (which carries both digital and analog signals) ports on their sets. They cost more, there is more circuitry required (both digital and analog receivers and signal conditioners) and few devices actually output an analog signal over DVI.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wik...

If your VGA-DVI adapter works on your tv, then your tv must have a DVI-I port on it (which isn't commonplace).

3) Actually, most new video cards (including those installed in new PCs) have DVI-D outputs on them - again, for HDCP purposes as well as to have an all digital signal immune from noise. While it is true that the primary reason that HDTVs today have VGA ports on them is so you can output from your PC video card to the television set, the trend is likely to peak soon and then reverse as video cards and other video devices continue to move towards digital output. Sooner rather than later there will be no reason to have any analog inputs on your tv (or monitor) at all; VGA, component, DVI-I, etc.

4) That's pure speculation. While I hope it is true that they can simply give us an adapter to plug into the back of current 360s that will give us access to a digital signal, we don't know if the output port on the 360 has the ability to transfer a digital signal at all. It is a proprietary output. It is very possible that the conversion from digital to analog is done on an internal chip and then outputted directly to the port as analog, in which case we're ("we" as in us people who have "original" 360s) hooped. If, however, the output port carries both a digital AND an analog signal, then they might be able to release an adapter (as you mentioned).

P.S. Go to www.bestbuy.ca and search for "1080p". Then click the 3rd and 4th results and look at their specifications (these are the same tvs as the ones I posted in the links above). Note the lack of VGA. Accept the fact that not ALL new 1080p tvs on sale at BestBuy have VGA ports on them. I'm not trying to fool anyone. Who are YOU trying to fool?

[NextGen24Gamer]

Ain't nothin worse than someone like you who "Lies" and then argues points based on his "Lies". Dude. I showed the link to best buy. The first 4 1080p tvs have vga inputs. And you named 2 that don't. WOW...I said 90% of HD tvs have vga inputs. YOu proved that 2 don't. I'm not going to debate this with you. Everyone can check the site themselves as I provided the link. Its not that complicated. Why you are dead set on lying and tricking unsuspecting consumers....I have no clue and I could care less. You are someone that can't even admit when your wrong or when you are lying....You have a problem my friend. I'm done discussing this with you. You aren't worth my bubbles. So attention everyone...if you click the link in my previous post...you can clearly see that "Most" hd tv's have vga inputs.

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

It looks like youre getting pounded so here is a little tip, dont come to the N4G comments section without ammo. If you dont want to look like an idiot gamer, research everything you say on this site before posting it and no one will own you like TopGamer just did.

[BenzMoney]

"...research everything you say on this site before posting it and no one will own you like TopGamer just did."

BAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

Thanks for the laugh, kid.

[Covenant]

Then MS may end up trumping Sony's European launch.

Imagine this:

Sony has virtually discontinued the 20GB PS3. That leaves them with a single $600 SKU.

Now imagine if MS discontinues the Core (with a price cut? They won't move otherwise), and drops the Pro to $300, and then introduces a new Pro edition w/bigger HD and HDMI at or near the old Pro edition price...which would still be $200 (or less) than Sony's single SKU.

Your average consumer doesn't know Blu-Ray from a blueberry...so which do you think they'll choose? $600 for one high-def HDMI-supported system with a decent HD, or $400 (theoretically) for another HD system with a larger HD and HDMI? Even if "Zephyr" comes in at $500, it's still a deal (unless you need Wi-Fi, in which case they come out even).

Sony's Achilles heel may also be their savior, though: Even though most people have no interest in Blu-Ray, there are some consumers who are, and they see the PS3 as a cheap BR player that also happens to support games. That factor could help Sony long-term, but it won't give them a major leg up against either MS or Nintendo. At best, they break even this generation.

One man's opinion. Take it as you will.

[gogators]

a larger hard drive for the 360. Hopefully this means improved downloadable content for everyone with the release of a larger hard drive. My 20 gig is nearly full. A price drop for the premium edition would be strong and important move by MS.

[Covenant]

At a reasonable cost. $100 for a 20 GB is too much. If they can release a bigger HD at a reasonable price--say, around $100--they'll sell extremely well. Many people--myself included--are running out of HD space. The sooner, the better.

[chitown]

the black 360 looks tight as hell man. how much do u think it'll be in us dollars. 400 or more??

[kornbeaner]

but if i were MS i Would keep the core and drop the price to compete with Nintendo's price. This way they can be cheaper and or at the same price as the other 2 consoles. Drop the core to $199 , Drop the 20 gig to $299 and release the new black one at $399 - $499 and this way you have all price points beat. Just a suggestion.

[FeralPhoenix]

3 SKU's is waaaay too confusing for your average consumer, also M$ does not need to match Nintendo's price because if they lowered the premium to $300 it would still be one hell of a deal for a all around HD gaming system thats only $50 more than a Wii....even the lamen knows that the 360 & PS3 is much more powerful than the Wii so I don't think M$ or Sony has to go as far as "matching" the Wii's price because the Wii should be alot cheaper than the other 2 because it lacks HD games, you can disagree but this is the biggest selling point of next gen gaming and that's why alot of times the Wii isn't considered to be in the same category as the other 2, just like HD TV's don't need to match standard TV's, so for those who are waiting for HDTV's to come down to just a "few" bucks more than standard, uhmm keep dreaming -NO the avg consumer is just waiting for a "hell of a deal", not necessarily for them to be as "cheap" as standard TV's. Also, I'm willing to bet that if M$ is going to do this then eliminating the "core" system would naturally be the best option for the future because I think eventually M$ is going to allow dev's to treat the HDD as standard for future game applications.

[kornbeaner]

that would be cheaper then a Wii would be great for those that want next-gen graphics without next-gen price. If Store clerks were well educated on the product they sell, haveing a $200 360 will sell like hotcakes. Or what about people who just want an extra 360 for a guest room or to network, this would be a good price for a machine that will only get minial use at best.

[PinkPrincess83]

This is good info to know!

[power of Green]

Microsoft said HDMI wasn't necessary to provide High-def gaming; meaning Sony tried telling consumers HDMI was the only way to achieve real HD(not talking about true HD & sound)why are you Sony fans so upset by this news, stop twisting realality.

Microsoft said HDMI wasn't necessary for consumers to play in HD glory they have made a deal already as Sony did, when HDMI is actually enforced MS and Sony are good to go!; as a safegaurd more than anything, CRP. So in realality HDMI isn't necessary as a requirment or for gamers to enjoy HD content, YET!.

Now Rumble!; that's another story!.

Overated, your thoughts are Over rated, my bubbles are gone because of my over the top non sugar coating coments i'v deffended myself in a foolish way three times what's your excuse, you seem to rabidly attack people for no reason other than not agreeing with them.

You Sony diehards seem to be angry as if this adds value to the 360 and will change many minds about the 360 in favor of MS, Oh wait it probably will. As if milking consonle's a genertion winning edge one less tool to use against MS.

Overated
talk about a grade AAA fool why are you offended? i said i doubt MS's not at the conference table putting aside what they're already working on to brain storm "HOME" and "LBP" they're too busy with what their working on, And that Sony droid thinks the 360's worthy due to HDMI he does not own a HDTV.

DJ lol, #27 said it took him awhile basically training himself as i did to see the difference between HDMI and Y,Pb,Pr. It took me forever to tell the differnce so i doubt it's as a big of deal as you try to make it out to be. Back and forth for a month with my Hitachi finally showed me HDMI was slightly richer or smoother due to faster digital signal transfer and no signal loss. No one will care most will have HDtV's that will have limited HDMI ports anyways.

[Havince]

I never really understood the point in the core pack at all. How much iss 299 euro in english pounds ???? just so i can tempt a few people 2 join the bandwaggon

[djsimo]

299 euro is £209 in pounds,so that gives u a rough idea how much the premium may cost.The new black xbox 360 with hdmi,larger HD ect.. i think will be around £300/350 mark!