After nearly 11 years, it’s been discontinued
On November 22, 2005, the Xbox 360 was released, and Microsoft began their reign that would echo throughout that particular generation.
The effects of the 360 are obvious even today. The Xbox Live Arcade machine was nearly unstoppable, ramping digital games to $15 and beyond, and a new standard for online play that improved upon their original Xbox infrastructure, forging a new era in the process. Hell, the infamous “horse armor” DLC incident for Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion was born on the 360.
In recent years Microsoft has fallen back in the console race, in a distance second to Sony’s PS4. This was mostly due to a number of comical missteps that resulted in them eschewing their poorly timed DRM policies, which could have used a lot more time in the oven as the rise of digital merchandise continues to dominate the landscape.
Today, Phil Spencer bids farewell to the 360, as it’s just been discontinued (though existing stock will continue to be sold). I’m taking the day to do the same by playing some backward compatible games. Despite what people may think of Microsoft as a whole it was responsible for a lot of great games, and for that I’ll always be grateful.
My favorite 360 exclusive? I think Castle Crashers may take that crown in hindsight (despite its “timed” nature), but there’s plenty of greats to consider like Blue Dragon, Beautiful Katamari, the Gears of War series, and many more.
Achievement Unlocked: 10 Years – Thank You, Xbox 360 [Xbox Wire]
