The console itself is slimmer that the original, this was made possible by keeping the “brick” outside of the main unit. Usually when it comes to the “next version”, the 360 is more powerful that the original Xbox.

There have been many reports that the Xbox 360 runs hot, VERY HOT. After playing games for hours on end, the game DVD is almost too hot to touch. To date, I have not had one over heat problem or a single game that has crashed or locked up on me. I have left my unit on for the past 4 days only to be able to pick up where I left off with no problems. Yes, this console generated heat, but so does my PC.

I have been able to play Halo, Halo 2, The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction, Jade Empire, Batman Begins and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic so far without any problems.

Graphically, the Xbox 360 titles under HDTV are stunning. Now, I will have to justify the cost of a new TV that has more HDTV input.

The coolest thing about the Xbox 360 (other than playing great games like Need for Speed Most Wanted) is the new Xbox Live dashboard. From your Xbox 360 dashboard you can send messages, chat with friends, take advantage of downloadable content like game demos and trailers and more too.

For you geeks out there, getting the Xbox360 to intergrate into your home lan is simple and having it interface with your MS Media Center is snap. (Nicely done Microsoft)

Is the Xbox 360 worth all of the bread? If you have the ability to display to HDTV and you would like manilupate via a Media Center PC, which the Xbox 360�??s supports, then yes! If all you really want to do it play games, then you have to ask santa really nice of have access to his/her credit card. When the original Xbox launch hit, it was all about Halo, this time around I wanted it mainly for the Xbox Live and Madden Football.

If you got the green then by all means, pick one up. (if you can) Or wait till next year to make the purchase: the console will be cheaper, the selection of games will be broader, used games will be available.

There you have it, short and sweet! I now await Gears of War and Chrome Hounds