They also spent a staggering amount of time on Windows Vista, pushing how well it will handle games. It's nice to see PC gamers not left out in the big announcements from the show. Vista's integration with Xbox Live made it fit into the program schedule.
Finally, new accessories, including an unpriced HD-DVD drive, wireless steering wheel, and a camera sound like great additions to the hardware. Moore's claims of HD-DVD players selling out seemed exaggerated (low stock numbers would be the cause for that), as did the movie selection, which he also claims was sold out (likely because there are only three movies to choose from). The camera is the most interesting of the lot.
Like Sony's EyeToy, this will allow people to video chat, make their Gamertag what they want, or create a character with their face on the model. It's a great concept, but the control here needs to be tight. It only takes one idiot to ruin it, and left unguarded, half of Xbox Live will be littered with penises for Gamertags in less than a day. That's the last thing the industry needs at this point in time.
Aside from a rather dry presentation and lack of any major surprises, Microsoft firmly planted themselves in the middle. They failed to break past Nintendo's energy, but completely conquered Sony's frustrating and lackluster Playstation 3 showcase. If you're part of the Xbox 360 community, Microsoft loves you. This year’s keynote proved it.
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