Help me buy an Xbox 360

[starcraft]

totalwar23 said:

Ugh...These past few weeks have been crap but school is almost done. Although, I have a report to hand in (which I only have a page to show for) and 3 finals I haven't taken yet :(.

But, to celebrate the end of the school year, and hopefully a well-paying summer job, I decided to buy an Xbox 360. Originally, I wanted to upgrade my PC instead but found it to be currently impractical. Therefore, I decided on a console instead. As I already have a Wii, I had to pick between either the PS3 or the 360 and looking at the software library now, as well as the price, I found the Xbox 360 more attractive.

However, before I go and buy an Xbox 360 arcade, I have a couple of questions which hopefully, you guys can answer as I don't pay attention to the latest updates and details about the SKUs.

1) How are the RROD problems? They put in the new shrunk down processors in the Arcade version, right? Newer versions are more reliable?

We haven't heard of an example of a post October manufactured console getting Rrod. Yet.

2) How important is connecting to the internet? I'm planning on just offline gaming.

If there is ANY chance you will want to play co-op or multiplayer, buy the Pro straight off. You'll save $$$

3) Does the arcade version have HDMI?

Yes, but it doesn't come with an HDMI cable.

4) Possibility that future games might require hard drives?

A lot of people predicted that Microsoft would cave on this one, but they haven't so far. Its possible, but they are sticking to their guns.

5) How fast are the loading times? Comparable to Wii games?

Differs from game to game. Generally not to bad.

6) Anything I might want to know as an owner?

Mass Effect, Lost Odyssey, Eternal Sonata, Oblivion, Banjo and the big one FABLE 2!!!!

I've already bought Crackdown as the first game for the console and I plan on picking a few RPGs over the summer.

Thanks.

Crackdown is good fun, if you want online co-op you'll need the pro version.

Thats the answer to your questions.

If you can afford it, I'd recommend a pro because of:

- Online play.

- Backward compatibility with cheap Xbox games.

- Demo and trailer downloads.

- Included headet for US purchases.