Microsoft will be significantly changing the way the XBOX 360 looks. No, not the outer physical form factor. We're talking about the dashboard here, the software you interact with when you power on the console. A lot has changed since our pals at Redmond shipped the first 360 thanks to numerous updates that has brought a full marketplace, TV, movies, casual games, better streaming media support, and lots more. So much, in fact, that the current dashboard, your gateway to browse all this stuff, has added enough dizzying blades, drop downs, and other menus that it was getting painful to use.
Shown for the first time yesterday during the E3 video game expo in LA, Microsoft's new design will make your dashboard go from hardcore business to teddy bears, fluffy bunnies, and Nintendo-esque Mii-like avatars.
Before:
After:
And you know what... I like it.
Don't get me wrong, I too think Microsoft is in the copy room with a half working Xerox machine and bag of quarters. The 'Me'crosoft avatars definitely took a page from Nintendo's book; except I think they're more realistic than the cartoony Mii figures.
What this does do is put some character (no pun intended) into the social networking aspect on the 360. XBOX Live! is (by far) the best online video game service to date, and while you can make friends on Live!, you're pretty much stuck inviting them to game with you or chat. From what's been shown, you'll be able to use your 'MicroMe' in upcoming games and elsewhere on Live!
The new avatars puts a another check off the list of 'me too' features for the 360, keeping Microsoft in the race with their competitors. Sony, for example, is upping the avatar concept on the PS3 in a major way with their 'should-have-been-released-a-year-ago' feature called 'Home.' It's a virtual world where your avatar lives (think the Sims but with less to do). Microsoft didn't announce any Home-like features, but how much it would be used should they add it is debatable.
Overall, I think the direction Microsoft is taking the XBOX 360 is good overall, provided it's easier to navigate the marketplace, browse media, and connect with friends online. The core experience needs to be better, even if it does mean taking step back in style from hardcore gamer to cute kittens and digital people.
Along with the Dashboard redesign, Microsoft also talked about several more improvements coming to an XBOX 360 near you. Expect to see hard drive installs for 360 games (faster load times, no drive noise), Netflix streaming video support, and even a new 60GB XBOX 360 SKU. Though if you're looking to get a deal on a 360, the current Pro model (20GB hard drive) is on sale just about everywhere for $299.
What do you think about the new dashboard? Post your comments below.
Comments
I like the look of the new
I like the look of the new dashboard quite a bit. It's cleaner and a lot more fun, as well as looking less intimidating. I never really liked the original dashboard.
It's good to see that Microsoft has jumped on the social networking bandwagon, it's been very successful with the Wii. Just wait until you can superimpose your MicroMe on your avatar in online multiplayer games...
I know I sound like a newbie
I know I sound like a newbie leach, but... Whats the word on Xbox 360 and BluRay support?
Brandon C. said:
Unfortunately, MS made no mention of a Blu-Ray add-on coming to the 360 at E3. Seems like they'd jump on that at some point (heck, I'd probably buy one), but no announcement yet.
Matt Whitlock said:
thats what im waiting for i hope they do it?