How Much was the Xbox 360 at Launch?
The release of the Xbox 360 in 2005 sparked a new era in gaming, offering online multiplayer capabilities, high-definition gaming, and a vast library of games that would cater to a wide range of users. But how much did this game-changer cost at launch? Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the prices of the original Xbox 360.
The Launch Prices (2005)
Initially, the Xbox 360 was launched with three different configurations:
- Core: $299, which included the console, a dualShock controller, and a remote control
- Premium: $449, which added a wireless controller and a 20GB hard disk drive (HDD)
- Elite: $549, which included a 125GB HDD and a wireless controller.
The Price Difference
Some may wonder why there’s a significant price difference between the Core and the higher-end models. The main reason is the inclusion of a hard disk drive and a wireless controller. Although the Core model was cheaper, it lacked these essential features, rendering it less appealing to gamers seeking a more comprehensive gaming experience.
bundles and Promotions
Many retailers offered bundles and promotions in the early days of the Xbox 360 release. These bundles often included additional free games, accessories, or even entertainment software. For example, Best Buy, a popular retailer, offered a bundle with the Premium system, a wireless controller, and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion for $499.
The Impact of Competition
Meanwhile, Sony’s PlayStation 3 (PS3) was released in 2007, and Nintendo’s Wii was even earlier, in 2006. At the time, the Xbox 360 benefited from being the first major console after the Xbox, with a built-in online gaming feature without the need for a separate adapter. With a lower price point compared to PlayStation 3, the Xbox 360 played a significant role in the gaming sector.
The Price Evolution After Launch
As the years went on, the Xbox 360 underwent several iterative updates, including the introduction of faster processors, improved graphics, and smaller designs. The Xbox 360 had several price drops with the release of new models, such as in 2007, when the model without a hard disk drive had a price drop to $249$. In 2010, the Xbox 360 S, a redesigned model was released, with a starting price of $299**.
| Model | Release Year | HD Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox 360 Core | 2005 | None | $299 |
| Xbox 360 Premium | 2005 | 20 GB | $449 |
| Xbox 360 Pro | 2007 | 60 GB | ? |
| Xbox 360 S 4GB | 2010 | ? | $299 |
| Xbox 360 E 500GB | 2013 | ? | $399 |
Conclusion
Pricing for the Xbox 360 on launch day varied depending on the configuration with prices ranging from $249 for the Core model to $559 for the Elite model. Although gaming consoles have evolved significantly since then, including advancements in technology and new features, those early prices set the stage for our modern gaming experiences.
Additional Resource:
Additional Data:
- Xbox System Requirements: A comprehensive list of system requirement for Xbox 360 games.
References:
- Xbox 360 Launch Prices
- Xbox Consoles Price History
- Microsoft’s Xbox 360 Official Website in 2005