"Love Microsoft or hate them they did make a good system."

When I first heard Microsoft was stepping into the console industry I was angry. I did not want Microsoft to monopolize my favorite thing to do(playing video games of course). But, being the hardcore gamer I am I just had to own the big three.

System Design 8/10

The system is big and heavy. At first I thought it was ugly but I have grown to love it. The best features on the outside are the four controller ports and the Ethernet port. My main complaint is no reset button. I like how they say you can reset it from the controller. But, after a game freezes the controller's quick reset feature fails to work. In the end, not bad for a new comer to the console world.

Controller 9/10

Releasing the system without Controller S was a mistake in my mind. My hands could not fit around the original controller at all. Now that it has two options for the main controller it better suites gamers' needs. I know some people with big hands that loved the original. I myself prefer the S. My only complaint about the controller is when I first started playing it seemed some of the buttons were stiff and unresponsive. Now after over a year of playing my controller is broken in.

System Specs 10/10

I am not sure of the exact system specs. But, I do know one thing, Xbox is the most powerful mainstream console on the market. After seeing the Halo 2 video I am impressed. I hope developers will take their time and tap into this systems full power. We have already seen some terrible ports and I fear we will see more in the future.

Games 9/10

Out of all the next generation consoles I own the most software for my Xbox. If you love multi player this is the system for you. It has always been my dream to verse my brothers in a first person shooter where I could have my own screen. System link is a sweet feature and a lot of games support it. Fear not, Xbox has some sweet single players games too. Star Wars: Knights of the old Republic is one of the best RPGs I have played in awhile. A great selection of games are ahead of us. Halo 2, Fable and Ninja Gaiden are just a few. The only complaint some people will have is there are few Japanese RPGs. But, who needs them when you have other great titles in the mix.

Xbox Live 10/10

This is Xbox. An Xbox without Live is like having cookies and no milk. Almost all my games support live. This is a perfect answer for all those people who can not afford an high end PC. Xbox Live can be updated and you can get downloadable content for select titles. Online multi player is the wave of the future in my mind and you will love this. I only have two small complaints, downloadable content may cost something in the future and not everyone has broadband in their area so they are left in the dust.

Overall 9/10

Do not hate it because it is made by Microsoft. Give it a chance and you will see it truly is a great gaming machine.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 09/03/03