My back hurts reading that headline.
The ever iconic Xbox 360 released 19 years ago today on November 22nd 2005. It was one of the most successful consoles of our lifetime. The Xbox brand became a big game player. Many people from all over the world were highly anticipating the launch of this game changing console!
I scoured stores every week looking for magazines with more info on this console. I always wanted to learn more. The moment I saw the updated logo and the sleek design I was hooked. I had to have it! It also had wireless controllers. They made me feel like I was looking into the future. I was oh too ready for it.
The console launched with 18 games. Two of those stood out to me he most. They were Quake 4 and Call Of Duty 2. I couldn’t believe me eyes, it was the first time I ever thought “wow, this is really next gen”. Both games were utterly gorgeous. I still fondly remember the opening level for each of them. My 12 year old eyes were blown away!
Throughout its lifespan, I had the best time of my life gaming with friends. Online gaming took the world by storm. The previous console did indeed have multiplayer but it was not very accessible to those of us in Europe. Everyone I knew had a 360, and all were constantly online after school. Horde days with the boys, 5 hours Slayer sessions in Halo and playing zombies in Call Of Duty. Core memories were unlocked for all
The pinnacle of gaming had arrived. We experienced many amazing titles. These included the Modern Warfare and Black Ops franchises. We also were introduced to the amazing GEARS OF WAR. The legendary Halo 3, along with Reach and ODST. All three being in my top games of all time. Fable 2 blew everyone away with its charming and delightful gameplay. You always had someone to play with! Sadly not the case anymore. R.I.P to all those sleeping avatars.
My favourite game of all time launched on the Xbox 360, which was ‘The Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion’. A game I reminisce about frequently about and still play once or twice a year. I had never seen anything quite like it! The vast open world, legendary voice actors and one of the best musical scores I had ever heard. I remember watching the reveal trailer and the gameplay trailer over and over. Lets not forget the countless midnight launches, what a time to be alive!!!
It was not without its controversy though, the red ring of death was rampant across the world. I was lucky enough to not get one albeit a former friend did break my console though. People all over the world were wrapping their affected consoles in towels.
Xbox really strived with the 360. They pushed amazing additions like the Xbox arcade. Here, we were introduced to a slurry of amazing non AAA games. We also picked up classic games from earlier generations. We were also introduced to the Microsoft points! Which you would use to buy content from the store. Every time I would have left over points I would always purchase a episode or two of ‘Red Vs Blue’.
Happy birthday Xbox 360 and thank you for all the amazing memories that I still cherish today.
