XBox Live! (X09-04017-03)

Well, since XBox Live is supposed to be so incredibly cool, I decided to devote a page for it (that and I've got what feels like a lack of Microsoft pages. ^_^) XBox live was released on November 15, 2002 in the United States for an MSRP of $49.99 that included the Live headset, starter CD, three sets of instructions (all different), a year subscription to XBox Live and demos of Whacked! and Moto GP. When you sign up for XBox live you also choose your own "Gamer Tag" or your nickname that you carry from game to game to game. The headset wraps around the back of ones head and the mic can be swapped between the left and right side. Unfortunately, the headset is NOT one size fits all. The module that goes in the controller links with the headset and also controls the volume and mute commands. You can also download new weapons and costumes for certain games via XBox Live. XBox live also uses "Optimatch" so someone at your skill level can be found quickly to play with. Friends can be "cataloged" so you can find them easier next time you play. Unfortunately, XBox Live is on a closed Intranet server, so when Phantasy Star Online 1 and 2 come out, XBox Live users will not be able to play with Gamecube users.

Starting in 2003, certain XBox Live enabled games come with a 2 month trial subscription to the XBox Live service. This is only available to new subscribers. After the two month period is up, the user has the option to continue service for $5.99 a month (or the then current subscription rate)

XBox Live Versions 1.0 Whacked & Moto GP demos ($49.99) 2.0 Whacked & Moto GP demos, Full Tetris Worlds game ($49.99) 3.0 Full Mech Assault game ($69.99)