Some interesting rumors are floating around about the Xbox 360. First, as predicted, the hard drive will most likely be excluded in the anticipated $300 retail launch package, though there may be higher-priced configurations that include it. Speaking of higher prices, an agreement with Mad Catz leaked out revealing that accessories will require a licensing fee to Microsoft, with all non-licensed items locked out by the 360's hardware security. This probably won't affect USB-based media devices such as the iPod and PSP - in fact, a developer confirmed that it's easy to link a PSP to a 360 dev kit to view pictures and stream MP3 music. However, wireless controllers, light guns, hard drives and memory cards are all strictly excluded - at least in Mad Catz' agreement - suggesting only Microsoft will manufacture these. Naturally, cheat devices also won't be licensed. Wired gamepads, steering wheels, arcade sticks, flight sticks and dance pads are all on the approved list...
Leave a comment