A couple of XBox 360 questions

[MiaBocca]

Hi, I'm looking to get an XB360, but unsure which region to go for.

Dead Rising has perked my interest well and truly, and I'd like to get the console as soon as the game is out, but I think I can probably wait a month or so until the UK version is out also.

My main concern is what other games would be available, since no matter how great a game is, it's still just one game. I've not really seen anything else on the XB360 that I might be interested in - I don't really go for these first person shooters that seem to be everywhere these days - I got a PS2 specifically for the SNK 2D fighters - and I'm concerned in the future the XBox360 won't be supported by types of games I tend to play (although I see Capcom's support is relatively strong, with Lost Planet and RE5).

I'm assuming eventually that some sort of region-free mod would be available?? A big detraction for the XBox360 for me is that there isn't this kind of mod(chip) already that lets me play any region.

So, would I be best getting a UK XBox360 and hoping that a multi-region mod would become available, or hedging my bets on a US or Jap console - given that I prefer Japanese game producers to Western?

Also can anyone recommend any other games on the XBox360, besides Dead Rising that might entice an old-school gamer to purchase a next-gen. machine?

Thanks

[jimmbob]

Also can anyone recommend any other games on the XBox360, besides Dead Rising that might entice an old-school gamer to purchase a next-gen. machine?

Thanks

If you're into RPG's the 360 has some belters, Oblivion and FF 11.
As for getting a US machine, the chances are unless you're into american sports titles (Madden etc) there's nothing (That I know of!) that the US will get that the UK won't.
The 360 is a pretty secure sealed unit, and proving tough for modders I believe, so I wouldn't hold out for a mod chip any time soon.
You're right Dead Rising does look the tits.

[mackemansj1]

Get a jp machine mate, you could be enjoying some ace games from jp like em enchant arm. Plus play asia have dead rising usa as working on a jp machine, alos have the super cheap asian games which normally carry english voice or text.

[MiaBocca]

Thanks guys - the jap. console does seem the best option. Although I'm interested to see if MS make any price-cuts, deals or bundles in the coming months what with the PS3 and Wii launches imminent. I intent to get a Wii this year too, so any deals on the XB360 would be most welcome.

One last Q. if I can - Can the Xbox games that are compatible with the 360 be used on XBox Live?

[jimmbob]

Yes they can, if it's backwards compatible it will work, although the chances are the only games you're gonna find will be on Halo 2 now!

[MiaBocca]

Thanks.

Where's the best place to pick up a Japanese or Asian console - and which one is the better to get?

Play-Asia have Asian Pro Systems for ?216, that's with UK-type power supply - Which is a nice chunk cheaper than the UK Pro system.

[sj33]

I think I read that you should avoid the Asian machine, as they can;t read all Japanese games, but all Japanese machines can read Asian ones.

[EvilBoris]

I'd be too scared to import a 260, they go wrong too easily

[Geezer]

Thanks.

Where's the best place to pick up a Japanese or Asian console - and which one is the better to get?

Play-Asia have Asian Pro Systems for ?216, that's with UK-type power supply - Which is a nice chunk cheaper than the UK Pro system.

A Japanese or Asian console from play-asia comes to $480ish including delivery, a Japanese one from Yesasia comes to $500 including delivery but Yesasia guarantee no customs fees. So if you get caught play-asia will end up being more expensive.

As far as I can see, a bundle is coming, it's only been announced in Mexico thus far, but I think it'll reach the rest of the world. It's the same RRP but includes Project Gotham, a few months Live and some marketplace points.

I have a PAL machine atm, but have a Japanese one on the way from Yesasia. I'm likely going to get rid of my PAL one, the only thing that makes me hesitate about selling is the fact that Pro Evo 6 probably won't be region free.

[Jebus]

Also can anyone recommend any other games on the XBox360, besides Dead Rising that might entice an old-school gamer to purchase a next-gen. machine?

Thanks

I know you said you don't like first person shooters, but Ghost Recon is truly phenomenal gameplay wise and ridiculously tense. It's more a third person as the camera is over the main character's shoulder. It's also a game you'll come back to. I finished it on normal months ago and started on hard...only just came back to it this week on hard again, love it as much as ever. The live aspect is also brilliant.

I'd also highly reccommend some of the Xbox Live Arcade titles! Cloning Clyde for 800 Microsoft Points (about ?6.50) is loads of fun and again, the multiplayer/live aspect is BRILLIANT. Also on live arcade : Uno (great fun and a real good laugh in multiplayer), Frogger is good for a fun blast from the past (at 400 points/?3 you can't lose really!) I also adore Bankshot Billiards (pool/9ball) which is another top arcade title...Geometry wars is brilliant too!

There's something for everyone on the live arcade and you can download demo's of EVERY game before you buy the ful thing, and most demo's are pretty "full" and let you really know if you'll like the game or not.

Retail game wise I'd also reccommend Top Spin 2 and/or Table Tennis (bargain at ?20 to ?25). There's a sport game for everyone as well on the 360, except for a club football game, I'm personally waiting for that one!

Oblivion will absorb you're life for a while, it's the first RPG I've played for that long in a while, I clocked up 75+ hours eventually and still didn't feel like I'd completely finished off my adventure, but enough to put it to bed and get on with other games.

I'm personally absolutely in love with my 360 and don't know why anyone wouldn't want one!

Oh and with Dead Rising (game I pre-ordered before I even got my 360!) Gears of War, Lost planet, Saints Row all on the horizon (some distant horizon though!) just to name a few, the console is going from strength to strength!

Finally a noteworthy mention goes to Full Auto, which although some slated the game is ridiculous fun! Just driving round at mental speeds shooting the crap out of things, destroying everything and winning races. I know it's not everyone's favourite (and it does have elements to the game that make you feel it was rushed out) I enjoy it a lot!

In short, buy one now...you won't regret it.

Oh did I mention the massive amount of free trailors/demos/game videos on the marketplace as well as the fact the live arcade seems to be getting a new game every wednesday now (pac man next and street fighter 2 today!)...

[Emir]

Get yourself Condemned. I didn't think I'd enjoy it that much, but it's pretty ace.

[MiaBocca]

God.... It gets more complicated! What happened to the days of buying a machine and plugging it in! LOL!

Thanks any way, I'm more confused than ever now!!

[Jebus]

Oh yeah Condemned!! Another game dripping with atmosphere, and the first game in years to actually scare me!