MMOs are a poor comparison. First of all, failing to pay for an MMO will not lock out multiple important features on your console, you just lose access to one game. Also, when you pay for an MMO, you pay for access to their servers. When you pay for XBL, you pay for access to other gamer's consoles and other companies' servers and content that would otherwise be offered for free. The fee for XBL isn't necessary, it isn't a service that costs MS a fortune to provide, they're just siphoning money by locking out 3rd party content which is completely immoral.
My XBL Gold ran out a month ago, I haven't renewed it since. It's annoying not being able to play COD4 online, but I'm not going to pay £40 a year to do so. Luckily I only play certain Xbox games online in short bursts, so I can pay monthly when I feel like it, when I get a new game or when there is a good deal going. I've considered selling my Xbox so many times because of this, because I'm sick of having my hands tied.
