The smartest thing MS did this generation was to include a strong online presence and a headset with every HDD console.
Nintendo is succeeding despite their online, which appeals to some people but not others. The Wii is selling itself on other merits.
Sony pretty much botched their online by relying on Bluetooth technology (absolute shit for my personal setup) and not putting a dedicated headset in every box. Even if I do get my POS to work so I can speak, well over 50% of any given server isn't using a microphone. Lame, especially in team-oriented games. The lack of in-game XMB and a few other missing features make the service look even worse.
Nintendo and Sony's policies for online chatting, playing, everything are what ensured MS will get about $500 extra dollars out of me for XBL Gold and extra game purchases. If the game is PS3/360 and online, there's about a 95% chance I'm buying it for the 360 because of the stronger, better-operated, and more tightly-knit XBL community. Now if MS would only pay for a few dedicated servers, XBL would be nearly perfect.
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