Xbox Live: Xbox online gaming

What is online gaming?

Online gaming refers to playing video games over the internet. Gamers use their internet connection to connect to a game server that is responsible to faciliate the simultaneous game action of multiple players that can be physically located on opposite corners of the world. Different types of games exist that allow for cooperative gameplay or for competitive gameplay, allowing players to measure their skills against each other.

Xbox Live: The online gaming revolution

Xbox Live is Microsoft's subscription based online gameplay network that enables you to play with and against other people from all over the world. You can also talk to your team mates and opponents while gaming using the communicator headset that comes in the Xbox Live Starter Kit.

If you're not an Xbox Live subscriber, the Starter Kit is a great way to join the ultimate gaming arena. This all-in-one solution for new players includes a copy of Crimson Skies: High Road to Revenge, the Communicator headset, and a 12-month subscription to Xbox Live.

Xbox Live is not just about online gaming! You can also connect to Xbox Live and download new game content such as new maps and characters and post your high scores for the whole world to see!

Gaming and talking to your opponents

When you buy your Xbox Live Starter Kit you get one years subscription to the Xbox Live service, the communicator headset plus a game ready to play on the Xbox Live service. Everything you need to get your Xbox Live subscription going!

The Communicator Headset is used in many games to talk to your team mates and your opponents while you are playing the game. This brings a whole new dimension to what can happen online. Secret alliances can be formed, tactics discussed and team communucation are only the start!

Xbox Live Games

There are over 100 Xbox Live aware games and as of December 2008, most newly released games are supporting it. Online gaming will soon be a feature expected in all games and no longer be considered an extra feature. With over 80 games already having full online gameplay features, there is no shortage of games to choose from. If you are looking for some help, try Halo 2, a First Person Shooter that is touted as the best Xbox game of all time and Need for Speed Underground 2, a street racing game that allows you build up you car with visual and mechanical upgrades and race it against harder and harder opponents. Also see the best Xbox games for 2008 for more recommendations.