Sony started it with the PSP - creating a game console that didn't have a set features list; one that could be updated with new firmware, adding functionality without the need for an entire system revision. Unfortunately, Sony haven't yet grasped the idea that constant, minor changes don't make for exciting updates. Microsoft, on the other hand, have embraced this concept by giving us bi-yearly updates that add useful and entertaining functions to our already-awesome console.
While we may not be getting anything as major as last year's New Xbox Experience, 360 owners who turn on their console's today will find that an update is available. No. it's not the one that adds the Facebook and Twitter channels we were promised at E3, but it does give us a few new options, and streamlines some existing ones.
Those who enjoy Netflix will be pleased to see that you can now browse more than just your instant queue. There are now sections for new release movies and TV shows, as well as the ability to pick movies by genre. While this takes away the need to use a computer, there doesn't seem to be any way of searching for a specific title, nor the ability to break down the lists into smaller, sub-categories (such as Comedy shows, BBC shows, Drama shows etc...). Therefore, I imagine I would still want to use a computer if I had a major Netflix evening planned. Oh, and those who like to watch movies with friends should enjoy the Movie Party option, in which up to 8 people can join together to watch Netflix over Xbox Live.
The Avatar Store also gets an update, bringing us pay-for-download items (yeah, we all knew they'd be coming). I suppose some of the items are kind of cool (who would say no to a lightsaber, eh?), but also seem to be a little pricey considering they don't do anything. Maybe I'd feel different if there were a bunch of games that incorporated the Avatars, but for now it just doesn't seem worth it. There's also a menu entitled Avatar Awards, which sounds like we may soon be getting clothes as unlockables in upcoming games - I sure hope so!
The other big feature is the Games On Demand section. It's now possible to buy some of the 360's best games without even leaving your couch. Enjoy titles such as Bioshock, Burnout Paradise, and er..... Perfect Dark Zero (?), all for the same price you would pay in a store. Of course, some would argue that the since the publishers don't have to manufacture or distribute the games, we should be getting them for less than the cost of a physical disc, but I suppose that some of these titles haven't actually been available in stores for a while (such as Viva Piñata), so at least it's good that we can get them again.
While these are the biggest features of the new update, there are plenty of smaller additions, such as the ability to give all games on Xbox Live a star rating; a streamlined friends and achievements list; and a special stamp that tells fellow players how long you've been an Xbox Live Gold Member for (mine's at 4 years). All of these things are very community-oriented, and should make the 360 experience a little more fun for everyone.
As I said before, this update seems quite minor when compared to the entire-dashboard-overhaul of the NXE, but every one of these features is another selling point on the box of the 360 console. Even now, when I look down my friends list, I see people enjoying more than just gaming - I see them watching Netflix, browsing the Marketplace, customizing their Avatar, and so on. The Xbox 360 is slowly evolving into an entire entertainment center, and it's all happening without any additional cost to the consumer. I can't wait to see what they bring us next!
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