New Xbox Experience = new life for 360
Ξ October 31st, 2008 | → | ∇ Gadgets |
Much Like Russell Brand, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 interface is starting to feel a little passé as we enter November 2008.
Thankfully, New XBox Experience, launching on November 19th, does the equivalent of shearing Brand’s raucous mane, plonking him in a smart suit and teaching him some bloody manners.
The suave and sophisticated new menu system, which will download like a normal update, disposes of the trusty “blades” that allowed you to cycle between Xbox live, Marketplace, memory, and system content.
Now each channel gets its own spruced-up slot, a visual treat befitting the HD-era and placing it on-a-par with the PlayStation 3’s homepage.
Users can create their own Mii-like avatars, a la the Nintendo Wii, with a more detailed, grown up feel with heavily customisable clothing and facial features.
The other big addition, at least in the US, is the partnership with rental giants Netflix to provide over 300 HD movies available to download through Xbox Marketplace. No word on an equivalent UK provider, like Lovefilm, stepping up to the plate yet.
The Marketplace will also feature an open-source Community Games section, much like the Apple App Store, where 3rd party content will be available to download.
Microsoft will be hoping their new overhaul will breathe new life into the 360’s already glittering career. Now, Russell, where are those scissors…
