Difficulty:

Just Right

Time Spent:

10 Hours or Less

The Bottom Line:

"Amazing"

Please note: This review is for the Xbox 360 S (2010 re-design) only. Sure, the gameplay is the same on the S as it is on the Elite (and earlier) models, but the hardware of the slim is significantly better with a smaller profile, quieter disc drive, hidden hard drive, and GUARANTEED no RRoD (Red Ring of Death for those of you who don't know. The Red Ring of Death is when your Green Ring of Light turns red, signifying the failure of your Xbox. Thankfully, this problem has been resolved with the new S models).

The Microsoft Xbox 360 dominates the 7th generation of gaming, ironically after the original Microsoft Xbox being the worst of generation 6 (behind the Sony Playstation 2 and Nintendo Gamecube). Unfortunately, the only thing holding this console back from a 10/10 is the online price. You are required a minimum of $4.99 a month for Xbox LIVE gold (the only way to play online on the Xbox). However, you get what you pay for. Xbox LIVE provides a better online experience than Sony's Playstation Network (PSN) on the Playstaion 3, and a MUCH better experience than Nintendo's Wii Connect 24 on the Wii.

The controller of the Xbox 360 is significantly easier to use than the PS3's (due to the placement of the analog sticks and controller size), and anything is better than the Wii remote. Xbox's controller is very easy to use, and batteries last longer on a full charge (if you choose to upgrade to rechargeable batteries). It fits more naturally in your hands than the PS3 controller because of it's design, and the buttons are more accessible.

Motion control is not my favorite way of gaming. Fortunately, the Xbox 360 does not require motion control (unlike the Wii, a system devoted mainly to motion control). But, if what you seek is motion control, look no further than the Kinect for Xbox 360. It is better than the Playstation Move for PS3 and and the Wii overall; mainly because you don't have the annoying remote in your way. It is similar to the old EyeToy for the PS2.

So if you want flawless gaming, do yourself a favor and buy an Xbox 360 before a Wii or Playstation 3.