The Black Box: Introducing Gaming 2.0

Throughout the blog my group and I have critiqued the theory of the ‘black box’ and if it will ever truly exist, but what if it already does? Introducing the new Xbox360 experience...

Since the release of the Xbox360 and PlayStation 3 the role of gaming consoles within the home environment has rapidly expanded. This article will focus on the Xbox 360 as it has attempted to transform itself into a convergence device (or black box) more so then the Sony PlayStation 3 has. The Xbox 360’s ever increasing ability to offer users alternative forms of entertainment will be discussed and displayed below, this is intended to highlight how the Xbox 360 is fast becoming a central media device able to fulfil the entertainment needs of an individual.

Social Media: Users are able to access social networking sites Facebook and Twitter through their Xbox 360 in an experience tailored to the living room.

Video Kinect: When released in November users will be able to video call a friend online. Watch the video below to find out more.

ESPN on Xbox 360: ESPN has signed an exclusive deal with Xbox so that all the sports users know and love are delivered directly through the Xbox.

Zune Marketplace: Xbox users are able to live stream movies and television directly through their Xbox console in HD.

These are just a few of the features available to Xbox owners, others include the ability to stream radio through Last FM and access for users in the UK to watch Satellite Television directly through the console.

The Black Box already exists and its called the Xbox 360.