Updated: July 13, 2020 (May 22, 2006)

  Analyst Report

Xbox Live, Add-Ons Highlight E3

My Atlas / Analyst Reports

1,071 wordsTime to read: 6 min

Momentum, rather than surprise, characterized Microsoft’s announcements at the May 2006 Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). The company announced long-promised PC connectivity to the Xbox Live online gaming service and an add-on HD DVD player for the Xbox 360, along with upcoming game titles and a vague plan for mobile gaming. Meanwhile, Sony’s revelation that the PlayStation 3 (PS3) will cost at least US$100 more than the Xbox 360 could help Microsoft keep its early lead among next-generation consoles, while Nintendo’s demonstration of its upcoming Wii (pronounced “we”) reminded onlookers that consoles are still a three-player game.

PCs Go Live

E3 is the gaming industry’s highest-profile event, a showcase for the coming year’s products. With Microsoft’s Xbox 360 console now available in more than 30 countries, Microsoft’s announcements this year were meant to show continuing momentum, while competitors Sony and Nintendo focused on new consoles they will release later in 2006.

Microsoft’s announcements included the following:

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