As most everybody knows by now, support for original xbox is getting cut on april 15. Knowing this for a while, I decided to dust off my copy of halo 2 and reminisce of simpler times. Looks like it paid off too! If you happened to play halo 2 or any other original classic xbox games recently, Check your email. I'm not sure if this will apply to everyone, but yesterday morning I received an email stating:


"On April 15, 2010, we will discontinue the Xbox LIVE service for original Xbox games playable on Xbox v1 and Xbox 360. In our continuing efforts to evolve the service, we need to make changes to the LIVE service that are not compatible with original Xbox v1 games.
What does this change mean for you?
• It does not affect your ability to play original Xbox v1 games offline, but does remove LIVE connectivity and support for online multiplayer, leader boards, and other online features of these games.
• We realize that you are an avid Halo 2 fan. Unfortunately, with this change, you will not be able to play Halo 2 on Xbox LIVE going forward.
• Although it is difficult to say goodbye to Halo 2, the Halo franchise continues as the benchmark for multiplayer gaming in this generation with Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, and soon Halo: Reach. On the Xbox 360, you will continue to have access to the LIVE service where you can enjoy hundreds of other LIVE-enabled games.
When will this change take effect?
• April 15, 2010.
What is Xbox LIVE doing for me?
• To thank you for being a loyal Xbox LIVE customer, we are giving you a free, three-month LIVE Gold membership and 400 Microsoft Points for you to use as you choose on Xbox LIVE.
• In addition, because you've been so loyal to Halo, we are inviting you to participate in the exclusive Halo: Reach Beta.
How do I get these offers?
• You will receive a token for 400 MS points. Check your Xbox LIVE account messages on the console. These points can be used for 365 days after you activate your token.
• We are extending your Gold membership by three months automatically. The extension will be directly reflected in your LIVE account.
• Finally, as the beta gets closer, you will receive an e-mail containing the code granting you access to the exclusive Halo: Reach Beta.
Thank you for being a loyal Xbox LIVE member. Please visit xbox.com/support if you have any questions or for more information.
The Xbox LIVE Team"


400 Free points? Three Free Months? A Free Reach Beta invite (I already own odst, but thanks anyway! Maybe I'll give that to one of my less fortunate friends.)
Thanks.

On one hand, they really didn't have to give players anything, but hey, it's a nice gesture I suppose considering they are cutting some services from paying members. I'm sure cutting them is more price efficient and Beneficial for them, but oh well, can't help but be a tiny bit bummed by that.