I just don`t understand you Sony boys... Do you not remember how much your console launched for? It was $1000 here in Australia.... I think you`re all overreacting.

If they could partner up with some cable provider, and provide a subscription service where the nextbox is also your cablebox, I could see this catching on, or even offer big discounts for online tv services like netflix or hulu plus.

Without something like that though, I don't think the subscrption deals will sell well unless the total cost = cost of xbox + cost of xbox live. Its a win for microsoft because they are basically guaranteeing the user will be subscribed to live for at least two years, and it won't feel like a ripoff to the customer.

Basically the customer needs to be saving some money in the long run or at least breaking even for this deal to seem attractive.

If you read the press release from Microsoft, you would have read that under the payment plan, the 250GB Xbox 360 w/Kinect bundle will cost $150 + $15 per month for two years for Xbox LIVE.

I'm stating the current retail price.  You can't walk into every store and get the Xbox 360 250Gb w/Kinect Bundle for $350 or the Xbox LIVE 12-month subscription card for less than $60.  Not every person can get the best price.

Obviously, if people can afford to layout at a given point the money necessary for an Xbox 360 Bundle on sale, then more power to them.  But not every person is in that position.  At a relative interest rate of 9%, buying the console at $100 or $150, plus $15 a month is an affordable solution.

So you're not confused, the price isn't <console> + <subscription> + 9% Interest APR.  It's just <console> + <subscription>, but the increase in and difference in price equals out to roughly 9% in interest.  Which last time I checked was FAR less than rental services, and most credit cards.

After the second year, you can simply begin using sub-cards if that's your preference or let the Gold account role over to a Silver account.

After the 24th month, any Xbox LIVE subscription cards you have redeemed apply, if you've setup your account for auto-renew and entered a credit card, then a 1 year subscription will kick in, or otherwise your Xbox LIVE subscription will roll over into a Free (Silver) account.

As for the hardware, it's yours free and clear.

This has nothing to do with a credit card.  No credit card is even used.

When you purchase a console on a payment plan, you pay for your purchase.  Then you're billed (by a statement) for your Xbox LIVE service.  Your social security number is used, and your failure to pay will impact your credit rating, but it does not factor into whether or not you get to make a purchase.  It also won't help build your credit.  Only your failure to pay will negatively impact your credit rating.

Any subscriptions you purchase outside of the plan won't even apply until the 24 months have completed.

So...no, you're 1000% wrong.

I just looked up the current price on bestbuy.com, same store that's going to offer this plan.
Plus you get 50% off on a 3 month xbox live card, and don't you get a free month with a new console to start with?
And they offer a 6 month payment plan with 0% interest. Ofcourse if you don't pay on time, you're probably screwed.

Anyway it's not for me. And if you're strapped for cash, why not shop for a refurbished model, wait for black friday or look online at the local ads. Seems just laziness to me.
I guess it gives you some peace of mind since I assume you will get a guaranteed replacement if it breaks during those 2 years? That's the only reason I'm renting a setop box, I'm on my 5th now. I think those Cisco Explorers must have a worse service record then early 360's.

Because the haters here hate options.  Options are a tool of the devil.  

This has been one of the most disappointing threads that I've ever read on these forums, and that's saying a ton.  I really do not understand how trolling can just run rampant sometimes with no repercussions.  Frankly, it's just really disappointing ...

Theres nothing wrong about what I said and anyone who has an Xbox can attest to this. Ive always known about this. Microsoft WILL want to have your information on hand when they bill you.Gaming and credit in this economy should never be mixed.

So much hating on MS for offering options is retarded. Especially coming from people who bought a $600 console at launch.

If you think this is not for you, don't buy it. Problem solved.