The next XBTR LANEVENT has been scheduled!
XBTR "Winter WonderLAN" will take place on Saturday February 25th, 2006 from 10am to 5pm, at the Webster Public Library, 980 Ridge Rd, in a room specifically set aside for our event.
This event is our first one of the New Year and promises to be even bigger than our last event!
More details to follow as they become available. Please e-mail the team e-mail box with any questions, xbtr@rochester.rr.com
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
December 7th meeting postponed!!!
The December 7th meeting of XBTR has been postponed, due to a lack of available team members to attend (probably due to the holidays), and no new date has been set at this point for the new meeting.
Planning is well under way however for the next XBTR LAN Gaming Event, so please check back regularly to the website for more information.
XBTR
Planning is well under way however for the next XBTR LAN Gaming Event, so please check back regularly to the website for more information.
XBTR
Sunday, December 04, 2005
XBTR on XBOX.com Forums
Ghostrider has added an "XBTR forum" to the XBOX.com forums website. A link has been added in the links field on the right hand side of the page.
Friday, November 25, 2005
"Rochester Insider" article link
Here is the XBTR feature story from "Rochester Insider"
XBTR Feature Story
XBTR Feature Story
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Attention Rochester, NY area gaming vendors!
If you're a Rochester area gaming vendor and you or your company are interested in participating in and/or sponsoring one of our upcoming LAN Events, please e-mail the team mailbox at xbtr@rochester.rr.com and let us know.
XBOX Team Rochester LAN Events attract gaming enthusiasts from all over Monroe County. This is a great way for you and your business to be in front of your target audience and to form lasting business relationships with new clientele.
We look forward to hearing from you.
XBTR
XBOX Team Rochester LAN Events attract gaming enthusiasts from all over Monroe County. This is a great way for you and your business to be in front of your target audience and to form lasting business relationships with new clientele.
We look forward to hearing from you.
XBTR
"Houston, do we have a problem!"
Just over 24 hours ago, a select number of lucky XBOX360 enthusiasts picked up their new systems, took them home plugged them in, and experienced the latest and greatest in gaming technology.
But were they really that "lucky"?
The following excerpt was taken from an ABCNEWS.com article dated today:
"Mine crashes a lot while playing 'Project Gotham Racing 3 … nice job M$ [Microsoft]," said one comment on the popular electronics blog Engadget.
Complaints about the unit overheating, crashing, locking up among other issues are appearing on blogs and forums around the Internet.
But is there really a widespread problem, or just the isolated frustrations of a very vocal minority?
For the full text of this article, please click HERE
If any of our team members have some personal feedback on their first impressions of the system, please send them to the team mailbox so I can post them, or put them on the bulletin board.
Thanks,
XBTR
But were they really that "lucky"?
The following excerpt was taken from an ABCNEWS.com article dated today:
"Mine crashes a lot while playing 'Project Gotham Racing 3 … nice job M$ [Microsoft]," said one comment on the popular electronics blog Engadget.
Complaints about the unit overheating, crashing, locking up among other issues are appearing on blogs and forums around the Internet.
But is there really a widespread problem, or just the isolated frustrations of a very vocal minority?
For the full text of this article, please click HERE
If any of our team members have some personal feedback on their first impressions of the system, please send them to the team mailbox so I can post them, or put them on the bulletin board.
Thanks,
XBTR
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
XBTR to appear in "Rochester Insider" magazine
XBTR Founders Christopher Bolton (Ghostrider) and D. Jeremy DeMar (Iceman183) were interviewed for an article which will be published in this Friday's edition of the "Rochester Insider" magazine.
XBOX360 HAS ARRIVED!!!
It's finally here, the long awaited and heavily acticipated arrival of the newest and most advanced gaming system on the market, XBOX360!
If you were diligent and put your deposit down "a long time ago", you may be one of the lucky ones who was actually able to pick up one of these units early this morning. If not, don't fret, while initial reports stated that those not picking one up before the holidays would have to wait until Q1 to pick up their system, Microsoft officials have said that additional supplies of the system will be available for the holidays, while at the same time, conceding "that an ambitious plan to launch the console worldwide within a few weeks will mean fewer consoles initially in North America." (MSNBC.com article 11/22/05).
XBTR Member and Co-Founder "GhostRider" was one of the "lucky ones" who picked up his new XBOX360 today, and from comments I've seen on the XBTR Online Forum, it looks like some of our other members are picking up their systems today also. If anyone would be willing to give XBTR.com their thoughts on the new game system, especially those members who have picked up the new console, please e-mail your comments to the team e-mail box so I can post them.
That's all for now, don't forget about our meeting on December 7th.
XBTR
If you were diligent and put your deposit down "a long time ago", you may be one of the lucky ones who was actually able to pick up one of these units early this morning. If not, don't fret, while initial reports stated that those not picking one up before the holidays would have to wait until Q1 to pick up their system, Microsoft officials have said that additional supplies of the system will be available for the holidays, while at the same time, conceding "that an ambitious plan to launch the console worldwide within a few weeks will mean fewer consoles initially in North America." (MSNBC.com article 11/22/05).
XBTR Member and Co-Founder "GhostRider" was one of the "lucky ones" who picked up his new XBOX360 today, and from comments I've seen on the XBTR Online Forum, it looks like some of our other members are picking up their systems today also. If anyone would be willing to give XBTR.com their thoughts on the new game system, especially those members who have picked up the new console, please e-mail your comments to the team e-mail box so I can post them.
That's all for now, don't forget about our meeting on December 7th.
XBTR
Thursday, November 17, 2005
XBTR December '05 Meeting Announcement
The next meeting of XBOX Team Rochester is scheduled for Wednesday December 7, 2005 from 7:00PM to 9:00PM, at the MK Computer Solutions Corporate Offices, located at 700 West Metro Park, 2nd Fl, Rochester, NY 14623, which is across the street from the MCC Brighton Campus. Existing members and new members are welcome. Please e-mail the team e-mail box at xbtr@rochester.rr.com if you plan to attend, or if you have any questions.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Pre-ordering for XBOX360 now in "second wave"
If you haven't already put a deposit down on an XBOX360 console (due to be released Nov. 22, 2005), you probably won't be getting one until after the holiday season.
Sources are telling XBTR that the "first wave" of pre-orders were completed "some time ago", and that all new pre-orders are going to be for the "second wave" of shipped units, which may not be in until after the holiday season.
If anyone knows of any locations which are still accepting advance payments for the first wave of XBOX360 shipments, please send us an e-mail.
XBTR
Sources are telling XBTR that the "first wave" of pre-orders were completed "some time ago", and that all new pre-orders are going to be for the "second wave" of shipped units, which may not be in until after the holiday season.
If anyone knows of any locations which are still accepting advance payments for the first wave of XBOX360 shipments, please send us an e-mail.
XBTR
XBTR "LAN EVENT" successful.......
If you weren't able to make our "LAN EVENT" on October 8th, you missed out on some stellar gaming with a terrific group of people.
The location worked out great, the food and snacks were plentiful, and the gaming was out of control!
Keep an eye on this site for more information about our next LAN GAMING session, tentatively scheduled for sometime after the first of the year...
Hope to see you there....until then, click HERE to read some stories from our members and their guests about the event....
XBTR
The location worked out great, the food and snacks were plentiful, and the gaming was out of control!
Keep an eye on this site for more information about our next LAN GAMING session, tentatively scheduled for sometime after the first of the year...
Hope to see you there....until then, click HERE to read some stories from our members and their guests about the event....
XBTR
Saturday, September 17, 2005
It's here, the 2005 XBTR LAN Gaming Event!!!
It’s finally here, the 2005 XBTR LAN (Local Area Network) Gaming Event!!!
Here are the details:
Location:
MK Computer Solutions Corporate Offices
700 West Metro Park, 2nd Fl
(This is across from the MCC Campus on
Saturday October 8, 2005
Check in/equipment setup begins @ 1:30PM
Gaming from 2:00PM to 10:00PM
This will be a LAN Gaming Event only! There will be no XBOX LIVE! connections for this event.
There will be three major games played during the evening:
Halo 2
Ghost Recon II
Madden ‘06
We will be operating on a switched LAN, so if you and your colleagues want to set up a tournament with another XBOX title, you’ll be completely configured to do so. I would encourage those members interested in playing titles other than the three mentioned above to generate a post on the XBTR Forum with the games they plan on bringing so that others may bring the same titles as well.
What you’ll need to bring:
Your XBOX, a surge protector or power strip with surge protection, all appropriate XBOX titles, and a television set, along with all appropriate wiring to wire your television and XBOX together. If you have a LIVE! account at home, please make sure you run your updates prior to arrival at the event, as again, a LIVE! connection will not be available at the event. We will provide your Category 5 connection to the switch via a pre-made network cable.
Only XBTR Members or guests sponsored by an XBTR Member are permitted to register and attend.
Please read the attached .pdf document and complete and return the 2005 XBTR LAN Gaming Registration form by September 30, 2005, with your $15.00 admission fee, payable to MK Computer Solutions.
Snacks early on, with dinner to be served later in the evening. Come and have a blast with other XBTR members on a cool Fall evening…..
Hope to see you all there….click HERE to go to the discussion board for this years event.....
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
The Countdown Begins: Xbox 360 Launch Details!
Leipzig, Germany— Ending weeks of speculation about which upcoming videogame platform will give gamers the most bang for their buck, today at the German Games Convention Microsoft® revealed that consumers can get their hands on Xbox 360™—the most powerful and feature-packed next-generation video game and entertainment system—for as little as $299.99 U.S. starting this holiday season. For gamers who want to experience the ultimate digital entertainment thrill ride, Microsoft also announced a model with hundreds of dollars worth of accessories for $399.99 U.S., giving consumers the definitive entertainment experience at an unbelievable value right out of the box.The Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 Core System—along with an impressive lineup of high-definition game titles from the world's best publishers and developers—will make their debut in North America, Europe, and Japan in time for this holiday season, several months ahead of the competition. Although details for the Japan launch will be addressed at the Tokyo Game Show in September, the unprecedented three-region launch signifies an industry first. The Xbox 360 platform will deliver the most powerful console, the best games, the next generation of the Xbox Live® service, and amazing digital entertainment experiences never seen in console entertainment. (MORE)
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Xbox 360-ready HDTVs
from reviews.cnet.com
The easy part is that you've already decided that you're buying a Microsoft Xbox 360 when it comes out. But with the new console's HDTV-ready capabilities--the 1080i games, the high-def outputs--there's no way you're gonna host any Halo 3 frag fests on that 19-inch Sylvania in the den. The big explosions, the nauseating violence, and the breakneck karaoke of tomorrow's 360-compatible games deserve a large expanse of screen and plenty of pixels, so we've gathered some televisions that are up to the task. What makes them Xbox 360-ready, you ask? Simple: they have good ratings, they have big screens, and they look cool, although none will match the snowy 360. We also avoided plasmas because, although burn-in is greatly exaggerated, it's more of a danger for games than for other content.
Click HERE to go to the full article from CNET.com, with examples of HDTV's meeting this criteria
The easy part is that you've already decided that you're buying a Microsoft Xbox 360 when it comes out. But with the new console's HDTV-ready capabilities--the 1080i games, the high-def outputs--there's no way you're gonna host any Halo 3 frag fests on that 19-inch Sylvania in the den. The big explosions, the nauseating violence, and the breakneck karaoke of tomorrow's 360-compatible games deserve a large expanse of screen and plenty of pixels, so we've gathered some televisions that are up to the task. What makes them Xbox 360-ready, you ask? Simple: they have good ratings, they have big screens, and they look cool, although none will match the snowy 360. We also avoided plasmas because, although burn-in is greatly exaggerated, it's more of a danger for games than for other content.
Click HERE to go to the full article from CNET.com, with examples of HDTV's meeting this criteria
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
The burning question answered
A special thanks to XBTR Member buddah143 for finding this article, which seems to answer the question all current XBOX'ers have been asking, will XBOX360 be backwards compatible?
This excerpt taken from GAMESPOT:
"Along with a firm release date and price point, the other big question surrounding the 360 was backward compatibility with the library of games from the original Xbox. Robbie Bach, senior vice president and chief Xbox officer in the Home and Entertainment Division at Microsoft, made Xbox fans around the world happy when he announced that the 360 will indeed play Xbox games.
Although future Xbox 360 owners will be able to play the more than 200 Xbox titles expected this year, it's the 360 games that they'll really want. Microsoft expects 25 to 40 Xbox 360 titles to be available during the console's launch window (defined as within three months of the system's release), and developers currently have more than 160 games in the works."
Read the full contents of this article by clicking HERE
This excerpt taken from GAMESPOT:
"Along with a firm release date and price point, the other big question surrounding the 360 was backward compatibility with the library of games from the original Xbox. Robbie Bach, senior vice president and chief Xbox officer in the Home and Entertainment Division at Microsoft, made Xbox fans around the world happy when he announced that the 360 will indeed play Xbox games.
Although future Xbox 360 owners will be able to play the more than 200 Xbox titles expected this year, it's the 360 games that they'll really want. Microsoft expects 25 to 40 Xbox 360 titles to be available during the console's launch window (defined as within three months of the system's release), and developers currently have more than 160 games in the works."
Read the full contents of this article by clicking HERE
Thursday, May 12, 2005
XBOX360 Revealed - Staff Review
One word…AWESOME!
The “XBOX360 Revealed” special on MTV was spectacular to say the least.
Airing on Thursday May 12, 2005 at 9:30PM on MTV, the half hour special gave current XBOX enthusiasts a glimpse of the next generation XBOX gaming solution, as well as a quick rundown of some of the games currently in production for XBOX360.
Here’s a quick summary of some of the games mentioned:
Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland
Tiger Woods PGA Tour
Need for Speed – Most wanted
Madden NFL ‘06
Gears of war
Ghost Recon III
NBA 2K6
Quake 4
Call of Duty
The Darkness
Saints Row
The game that received the most attention during the broadcast was Perfect Dark Zero, and the broadcast ended with a deathmatch between some of the top player performers in current XBOX standings, like Matt Leto, gamertag “Zyos”. Zyos ultimately ended up coming in second place, however viewers were witness to some thrilling graphics, tremendous clarity, and superfast speed.
It was also clear to see the alliance between XBOX360 and Samsung, as a commercial aired atleast twice during the half hour special promoting the big push for HDTV gaming, while Bungie Studios “Halo” theme music ran in the background.
West Coast Customs also took a step back from “automotive pimping” and pimped out the current XBOX, adding an integrated 15” display and some custom airbrushing. A slick unit, but not enough to steal the limelight from its successor, XBOX360.
Onto the XBOX360 hardware highlights….
Customization was the focus and emphasis of the brief presentation viewers saw on the next generation XBOX console, which features a distinctive “Ring of Light”, interchangeable faceplates, wireless controllers, and a “Live Marketplace” feature in the system software which allows you to personally style your character for gaming. Nice touch! Game downloads and many other features appeared to be available in the lobby feature of the XBOX360, however it looks like we’ll all have to wait a little bit longer to get the details on that.
Overall, I was impressed, however I have to say that in the brief gaming demonstrations I witnessed, I didn’t see a great deal more in the way of exciting gaming and graphics than what I have already seen and played on using current XBOX technology and software. I guess the proof will come when we actually sit down at the next generation console and start hammering out the kills. Until then, we’ll have to rely on reviews, game developers, and hype to hold onto the excitement until Fall, when XBOX360 is due to be released, just in time for the holidays.
--- Iceman183
The “XBOX360 Revealed” special on MTV was spectacular to say the least.
Airing on Thursday May 12, 2005 at 9:30PM on MTV, the half hour special gave current XBOX enthusiasts a glimpse of the next generation XBOX gaming solution, as well as a quick rundown of some of the games currently in production for XBOX360.
Here’s a quick summary of some of the games mentioned:
Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland
Tiger Woods PGA Tour
Need for Speed – Most wanted
Madden NFL ‘06
Gears of war
Ghost Recon III
NBA 2K6
Quake 4
Call of Duty
The Darkness
Saints Row
The game that received the most attention during the broadcast was Perfect Dark Zero, and the broadcast ended with a deathmatch between some of the top player performers in current XBOX standings, like Matt Leto, gamertag “Zyos”. Zyos ultimately ended up coming in second place, however viewers were witness to some thrilling graphics, tremendous clarity, and superfast speed.
It was also clear to see the alliance between XBOX360 and Samsung, as a commercial aired atleast twice during the half hour special promoting the big push for HDTV gaming, while Bungie Studios “Halo” theme music ran in the background.
West Coast Customs also took a step back from “automotive pimping” and pimped out the current XBOX, adding an integrated 15” display and some custom airbrushing. A slick unit, but not enough to steal the limelight from its successor, XBOX360.
Onto the XBOX360 hardware highlights….
Customization was the focus and emphasis of the brief presentation viewers saw on the next generation XBOX console, which features a distinctive “Ring of Light”, interchangeable faceplates, wireless controllers, and a “Live Marketplace” feature in the system software which allows you to personally style your character for gaming. Nice touch! Game downloads and many other features appeared to be available in the lobby feature of the XBOX360, however it looks like we’ll all have to wait a little bit longer to get the details on that.
Overall, I was impressed, however I have to say that in the brief gaming demonstrations I witnessed, I didn’t see a great deal more in the way of exciting gaming and graphics than what I have already seen and played on using current XBOX technology and software. I guess the proof will come when we actually sit down at the next generation console and start hammering out the kills. Until then, we’ll have to rely on reviews, game developers, and hype to hold onto the excitement until Fall, when XBOX360 is due to be released, just in time for the holidays.
--- Iceman183
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Xbox 360: multiple versions planned
From xboxmagonline.com
Microsoft is still planning to ship two different versions of its Xbox 360 console at launch, according to sources close to the company, reports suggest that the high-end version may feature Microsoft's WebTV system. It's long been thought that Microsoft plans to ship two different Xbox 360 bundles, one with a hard drive and one without, and give users the option of upgrading the low-end system with a hard drive accessory. The basic edition of Xbox 360, the version without the hard drive will not have backwards compatibility, while the "premium" version with the hard drive will ship with Microsoft's WebTV functionality built-in
WebTV is Microsoft's effort at bringing internet communication and media functionality to the living room, and includes basic functionality such as web, e-mail and IM access along with the ability to stream music and video channels from the 'net or from local PCs.
Microsoft is still planning to ship two different versions of its Xbox 360 console at launch, according to sources close to the company, reports suggest that the high-end version may feature Microsoft's WebTV system. It's long been thought that Microsoft plans to ship two different Xbox 360 bundles, one with a hard drive and one without, and give users the option of upgrading the low-end system with a hard drive accessory. The basic edition of Xbox 360, the version without the hard drive will not have backwards compatibility, while the "premium" version with the hard drive will ship with Microsoft's WebTV functionality built-in
WebTV is Microsoft's effort at bringing internet communication and media functionality to the living room, and includes basic functionality such as web, e-mail and IM access along with the ability to stream music and video channels from the 'net or from local PCs.
Official XBOX360 Image Leaked....
From xboxmagonline.com
Microsoft's second generation Xbox has been the subject of much speculation over the last few months. But Microsoft has successfully kept the new Xbox all but a mystery - until now. A seemingly official picture of the "Xbox 360" has made its way onto the Web, the image is a render rather than a photo, but sources who have seen the hardware have vouched for its authenticity. Click HERE for the pictures....and tune into MTV tomorrow at 9:30PM for the official unveiling....
Microsoft's second generation Xbox has been the subject of much speculation over the last few months. But Microsoft has successfully kept the new Xbox all but a mystery - until now. A seemingly official picture of the "Xbox 360" has made its way onto the Web, the image is a render rather than a photo, but sources who have seen the hardware have vouched for its authenticity. Click HERE for the pictures....and tune into MTV tomorrow at 9:30PM for the official unveiling....
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
XBTR Online Forum Maintenance Announcement
*** FYI ***
The XBTR Online Forum will be upgraded within the next 24 hours to ProBoards Version 4. This message board may be unavailable for up to 24 hours during this upgrade.
XBTR
The XBTR Online Forum will be upgraded within the next 24 hours to ProBoards Version 4. This message board may be unavailable for up to 24 hours during this upgrade.
XBTR
Monday, May 09, 2005
2005 GameRiot Tour
If you’re a true gamer, then GameRiot is the spot for you. We’ve got dozens of competitions raging all day for hot prizes. We’ve also turned up the prize levels by a few thousand notches. Come out and test your skills against the best your town has to offer, and if you’ve really got game.From Rookie right up to the Hardcore, we’ve got cash and prizes to give away at each stop. Check out the featured games to pick your spot.
For more information, checkout the GameRiot website HERE
For more information, checkout the GameRiot website HERE
Saturday, May 07, 2005
Halo 2 Online U.S. Tournament
Halo 2 Tourney - Sponsored by Game Stop
The Halo 2 U.S. Tournament is now underway--good luck!
Enter the Xbox Live™ U.S. Halo® 2 Tournament for your chance to win a Master Chief statue, a personalized championship plaque and sweatshirt, a Samsung Personal Camcorder, and $500!Jump in the Rumble Pit.Register here for the Xbox Live Halo 2 Tournament. Play Rumble Pit. Play it a lot. Kick ass in Rumble Pit!Claw Your Way to the TopThe highest-ranked player (who is also tourney-registered and eligible) in the Rumble Pit will be declared the U.S. Halo 2 Tournament Champion, and will receive:
Master Chief statue
Halo 2 U.S. champion plaque
Halo 2 U.S. champion sweatshirt
Samsung Personal Camcorder
$500 U.S. in cash
$100 GameStop gift card
Kick Some Global ButtThe US Xbox Live Halo 2 Champion will then go on to represent the United States in the upcoming Halo 2 World Championships. P.S. Make sure your contact information is up to date before the end of registration. You won’t get spam from us, but if you didn’t include a phone number, or you gave a bogus email account, then we can’t contact you to tell you if you’ve won! Here’s how to do it:To update your contact information:
From the Xbox Dashboard, select Xbox Live.
Select Account Management.
Select Credit Card.
Enter the last four digits of the credit card number used for your account.
Update your contact information.
The Halo 2 U.S. Tournament is now underway--good luck!
Enter the Xbox Live™ U.S. Halo® 2 Tournament for your chance to win a Master Chief statue, a personalized championship plaque and sweatshirt, a Samsung Personal Camcorder, and $500!Jump in the Rumble Pit.Register here for the Xbox Live Halo 2 Tournament. Play Rumble Pit. Play it a lot. Kick ass in Rumble Pit!Claw Your Way to the TopThe highest-ranked player (who is also tourney-registered and eligible) in the Rumble Pit will be declared the U.S. Halo 2 Tournament Champion, and will receive:
Master Chief statue
Halo 2 U.S. champion plaque
Halo 2 U.S. champion sweatshirt
Samsung Personal Camcorder
$500 U.S. in cash
$100 GameStop gift card
Kick Some Global ButtThe US Xbox Live Halo 2 Champion will then go on to represent the United States in the upcoming Halo 2 World Championships. P.S. Make sure your contact information is up to date before the end of registration. You won’t get spam from us, but if you didn’t include a phone number, or you gave a bogus email account, then we can’t contact you to tell you if you’ve won! Here’s how to do it:To update your contact information:
From the Xbox Dashboard, select Xbox Live.
Select Account Management.
Select Credit Card.
Enter the last four digits of the credit card number used for your account.
Update your contact information.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Game night: This Friday May 6
XBOX Team Rochester will be online in full force this Friday from 7:00PM to 10:00PM Eastern Time playing Halo 2. If you're interested in playing with us and you're not currently a member of XBTR, please send your gamertag to the team mailbox at xbtr@rochester.rr.com, and we'll send you an invite. Hope to see you there....
Monday, May 02, 2005
Next-Generation Xbox to Be Media Hub
Next-Generation Xbox Will Be More of a Digital Entertainment Hub Than Predecessor, Gates Says
SEATTLE May 2, 2005 — Microsoft Corp.'s next-generation Xbox gaming console will be more of a digital entertainment hub than its predecessor, making it even more of a PC hybrid than ever, Bill Gates told a meeting of business journalists on Monday. Click HERE for more information on this story
SEATTLE May 2, 2005 — Microsoft Corp.'s next-generation Xbox gaming console will be more of a digital entertainment hub than its predecessor, making it even more of a PC hybrid than ever, Bill Gates told a meeting of business journalists on Monday. Click HERE for more information on this story
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Newsflash:Samsung and Microsoft Announce HDTV Alliance for Next-Gen Xbox
April 28, 2005, New York, NY—Samsung Electronics, a global HDTV leader, and Microsoft® today announced an alliance to elevate gaming to the next level through high-definition technology. Microsoft has chosen Samsung as the exclusive HDTV worldwide marketing partner for the next-generation Xbox® high-definition (HD) gaming platform. The announcement was made today during the Home Entertainment Expo at the New York Hilton. Click HERE for more information....
Thursday, April 28, 2005
1st XBTR General Membership Meeting
XBTR’s 1st General Membership Meeting will be held at the Applebees in Henrietta, NY at 3020 South Winton Rd @ 7:00PM on Thursday May 5, 2005. Members and those wishing to become members are welcome to attend. RSVP's requested to the XBTR Team Mailbox at xbtr@rochester.rr.com
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Maptacular Monday!
From Bungie.net
The first batch of new, downloadable Halo 2 multiplayer maps will be available on Monday April 25th for download on Xbox Live. Woot! The maps passed through Microsoft's certification process successfully today, which was all we were waiting for! We said we'd tell you as soon as we could, and we found out about an hour ago that they'd passed with flying colors.
The Bonus Pack - comprised of Containment and Warlock, is free. Log into Xbox Live, go to the download content menu item and get 'em. The Killtacular Pack, comprised of Turf and Sanctuary, is $5.99 US (local prices will vary by country) but for the patient, it too will be available for free on June 28 th .
The maps will be available in custom games immediately, and in Matchmaking some time soon after. We'll bring you news on the Matchmaking playlists update shortly.
The first batch of new, downloadable Halo 2 multiplayer maps will be available on Monday April 25th for download on Xbox Live. Woot! The maps passed through Microsoft's certification process successfully today, which was all we were waiting for! We said we'd tell you as soon as we could, and we found out about an hour ago that they'd passed with flying colors.
The Bonus Pack - comprised of Containment and Warlock, is free. Log into Xbox Live, go to the download content menu item and get 'em. The Killtacular Pack, comprised of Turf and Sanctuary, is $5.99 US (local prices will vary by country) but for the patient, it too will be available for free on June 28 th .
The maps will be available in custom games immediately, and in Matchmaking some time soon after. We'll bring you news on the Matchmaking playlists update shortly.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Darkwatch...this may be the next Halo!!!
For those of you who haven't yet heard about Darkwatch or haven't yet seen the May 2005 XBOX Magazine Disc #44 with the Darkwatch trailer, be prepared! (XBTR)
"Just watching the trailer sent shivers down my spine, so I can't imagine what playing the game will be like!": (Iceman183)
Darkwatch is a cinematic 1st person shooter (FPS) blending the Vampire-Horror and Western genres…
They grind their enemies for fuel, fashion their skin into protective cloaks and create weapons designed to exterminate en masse, and they're the good guys! They are the Darkwatch, a mysterious secret society that has protected humanity from evil since the dawn of civilization. Their newest and most deadly agent is Jericho Cross, an outlaw gunslinger pulled into their ranks by an unfortunate close encounter with a vampire lord.
Jericho's only chance of regaining his stolen humanity is to pursue the vampire through an American frontier overrun by evil minions. Along the way he relies on his deadly gun-fighting skills and advanced weapons and vehicles created by the Darkwatch, owing as much to sorcery as to technology. As a half-vampire, his superhuman abilities allow him to move, see and take damage as no living man could. When he's in a tight spot, or needs an extra burst of speed, he can summon his demonic horse from the very ground he stands on, firing his weapons from horse-back or crushing the rotten skulls of undead opponents with flailing hooves.
To fight a monster, one must become a monster. Jericho Cross had no choice…but only he can save the West and his own soul from eternal damnation.
"Just watching the trailer sent shivers down my spine, so I can't imagine what playing the game will be like!": (Iceman183)
Darkwatch is a cinematic 1st person shooter (FPS) blending the Vampire-Horror and Western genres…
They grind their enemies for fuel, fashion their skin into protective cloaks and create weapons designed to exterminate en masse, and they're the good guys! They are the Darkwatch, a mysterious secret society that has protected humanity from evil since the dawn of civilization. Their newest and most deadly agent is Jericho Cross, an outlaw gunslinger pulled into their ranks by an unfortunate close encounter with a vampire lord.
Jericho's only chance of regaining his stolen humanity is to pursue the vampire through an American frontier overrun by evil minions. Along the way he relies on his deadly gun-fighting skills and advanced weapons and vehicles created by the Darkwatch, owing as much to sorcery as to technology. As a half-vampire, his superhuman abilities allow him to move, see and take damage as no living man could. When he's in a tight spot, or needs an extra burst of speed, he can summon his demonic horse from the very ground he stands on, firing his weapons from horse-back or crushing the rotten skulls of undead opponents with flailing hooves.
To fight a monster, one must become a monster. Jericho Cross had no choice…but only he can save the West and his own soul from eternal damnation.
Xbox 360 name confirmed; console design details revealed
British sources confirm previously rumoured details about Microsoft's new console
* A special thanks to John (Crashx186) for giving XBTR the heads up on this article:
British sources have confirmed that the next generation Xbox is indeed called Xbox 360, that the logo is a simple, round nexus, and that the console itself has a concave design - and a platinum white finish.
Many rumours - some of them conflicting - have been circulating in the past months regarding Microsoft's next generation system, but speaking under conditions of strict anonymity, a British source who is privy to Microsoft's marketing documents for the console has now cleared up much of the speculation.
The name of Xbox's successor is Xbox 360, we can confirm, and the design of the machine is indeed a concave shape.
The machine can stand upright and hollows in at the middle, like it's "sucking in its cheeks," our source told us today. Previous rumours had put the console as light silver, although fresh information says the final design may be white. It's impossible to tell from the documents, our source explained - although the glimpse of the machine's controllers given on viral marketing website OurColony does suggest a platinum-white colour scheme for the hardware.
According to the source, the rumoured slot for the hard drive module - which was apparently at the top of the machine - is not obvious on the document, and the person was unable to clarify where the slot for discs is actually located.
One other aspect we've been unable to confirm is the rumoured customisation features on the box. It's been speculated that the emphasis on customisation which J Allard touted at the Game Developers Conference last month could extend to allowing users to change the "skin" of the console, but this feature was not mentioned by our source.
As for the logo of the console, it is described as a simple, round nexus with "Xbox 360" written inside it. Previous rumours had simply the numbers "360" in the disc. This branding tends to suggest that we can expect to see "360" appearing after many game names, as happened with the Nintendo 64.
Microsoft will show the console for the first time in a half-hour special on MTV on May 12, a week ahead of E3. The company's press conference, on Monday, May 16, will be the first viewing of the console to the trade en bloc.
Xbox 360 is expected to receive a global release in late 2005.
When contacted today, Microsoft simply said that it does not comment on rumours and speculation relating to next generation product.
* A special thanks to John (Crashx186) for giving XBTR the heads up on this article:
British sources have confirmed that the next generation Xbox is indeed called Xbox 360, that the logo is a simple, round nexus, and that the console itself has a concave design - and a platinum white finish.
Many rumours - some of them conflicting - have been circulating in the past months regarding Microsoft's next generation system, but speaking under conditions of strict anonymity, a British source who is privy to Microsoft's marketing documents for the console has now cleared up much of the speculation.
The name of Xbox's successor is Xbox 360, we can confirm, and the design of the machine is indeed a concave shape.
The machine can stand upright and hollows in at the middle, like it's "sucking in its cheeks," our source told us today. Previous rumours had put the console as light silver, although fresh information says the final design may be white. It's impossible to tell from the documents, our source explained - although the glimpse of the machine's controllers given on viral marketing website OurColony does suggest a platinum-white colour scheme for the hardware.
According to the source, the rumoured slot for the hard drive module - which was apparently at the top of the machine - is not obvious on the document, and the person was unable to clarify where the slot for discs is actually located.
One other aspect we've been unable to confirm is the rumoured customisation features on the box. It's been speculated that the emphasis on customisation which J Allard touted at the Game Developers Conference last month could extend to allowing users to change the "skin" of the console, but this feature was not mentioned by our source.
As for the logo of the console, it is described as a simple, round nexus with "Xbox 360" written inside it. Previous rumours had simply the numbers "360" in the disc. This branding tends to suggest that we can expect to see "360" appearing after many game names, as happened with the Nintendo 64.
Microsoft will show the console for the first time in a half-hour special on MTV on May 12, a week ahead of E3. The company's press conference, on Monday, May 16, will be the first viewing of the console to the trade en bloc.
Xbox 360 is expected to receive a global release in late 2005.
When contacted today, Microsoft simply said that it does not comment on rumours and speculation relating to next generation product.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
NEXT XBOX TO GET MTV UNVEILING!
Console will be featured in a May 12 special!
LOS ANGELES, California (Reuters) -- Microsoft Corp. Monday said it would unveil the next generation of its Xbox video game console in a May 12 special on cable music and entertainment channel MTV.
The unveiling will be a first, as video game companies usually take the wraps off their new consoles at the industry trade show E3 -- which will be held the following week in Los Angeles.
Microsoft said the special would also air in Japan the morning of May 13 and across Europe that evening. Actor Elijah Wood will host the show.
The special will include footage of next-generation Xbox games and also online play, Microsoft said.
The company has not set a release date for the Xbox successor or even announced a name, but the new hardware is expected to be released later this year.
Market leader Sony Corp. has said little about the timetable for its next-generation PlayStation console, but there is speculation it will offer details at E3 next month.
Last week Sony advised it would hold its E3 press conference a few hours before Microsoft's, a break with tradition that some saw as a sign Sony wanted to steal Microsoft's anticipated thunder.
LOS ANGELES, California (Reuters) -- Microsoft Corp. Monday said it would unveil the next generation of its Xbox video game console in a May 12 special on cable music and entertainment channel MTV.
The unveiling will be a first, as video game companies usually take the wraps off their new consoles at the industry trade show E3 -- which will be held the following week in Los Angeles.
Microsoft said the special would also air in Japan the morning of May 13 and across Europe that evening. Actor Elijah Wood will host the show.
The special will include footage of next-generation Xbox games and also online play, Microsoft said.
The company has not set a release date for the Xbox successor or even announced a name, but the new hardware is expected to be released later this year.
Market leader Sony Corp. has said little about the timetable for its next-generation PlayStation console, but there is speculation it will offer details at E3 next month.
Last week Sony advised it would hold its E3 press conference a few hours before Microsoft's, a break with tradition that some saw as a sign Sony wanted to steal Microsoft's anticipated thunder.
Sunday, April 03, 2005
Latest review: Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Lockdown
Team Rainbow is on a mission to destroy a terrorist network threatening to unleash a deadly nanotech virus. When one of their own is captured, the battle becomes personal ...
The elite members of Team Rainbow do not negotiate with terror. They destroy it.
Learn more by clicking HERE
The elite members of Team Rainbow do not negotiate with terror. They destroy it.
Learn more by clicking HERE
NEW AOL Instant Messenger address for XBTR!
FYI, the new AOL Instant Messenger address for XBOX Team Rochester is "XBOXTeamRoch"
Saturday, April 02, 2005
LAN Party
Hi everyone, we're looking to get a "head count" for the number of people who would be seriously interested in participating in a scheduled XBOX LAN Party Event, somewhere in the County (site has yet to be determined).
Requirements would most likely be as follows:
Bring your own TV
Bring an XBOX system w/controller(s)
Bring the pre-agreed upon games scheduled for the event
There would more than likely be some type of a cover charge (i.e. $5.00) to cover the cost of food and drinks for the group.
This will also be a great way for us to build our membership.
Please e-mail the team at xbtr@rochester.rr.com as soon as possible if you're interested in participating. Per Chris, we will need atleast 8 to 10 players to make this worthwhile.
Thanks...
Requirements would most likely be as follows:
Bring your own TV
Bring an XBOX system w/controller(s)
Bring the pre-agreed upon games scheduled for the event
There would more than likely be some type of a cover charge (i.e. $5.00) to cover the cost of food and drinks for the group.
This will also be a great way for us to build our membership.
Please e-mail the team at xbtr@rochester.rr.com as soon as possible if you're interested in participating. Per Chris, we will need atleast 8 to 10 players to make this worthwhile.
Thanks...
Friday, April 01, 2005
* NEW* XBTR Online Forum posting recommendations
Going forward, please use ONLY the XBTR Online Forum for your periodic posting and replying needs. While we had originally intended to have our visitors and players respond to posts on the main page of our BLOG, it has become somewhat difficult for us to check for replies on a regular basis, therefore, we'd ask that everyone post and reply only in the XBTR Online Forum. It's an easier and more efficient way for all of us to interact on this site.
Thanks,
XBTR
Thanks,
XBTR
* SAFETY NOTICE * XBOX Power Cord Replacements
For those not already aware, Microsoft has recalled the power cords of select models of XBOX and is shipping out replacement power cords at no charge to the customer. For more details on this program, please click HERE
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Intec’s New Wireless LIVE Wireless Controller with Integrated Headset
Take Your Xbox® Live Experience to the Next Level with Intec’s New Wireless LIVE Wireless Controller with Integrated Headset.
(Miami, FL) – March 23, 2005 – Intec, Inc., the leading manufacturer of cross-platform video game accessories, today introduced its Wireless LIVE wireless controller and headset for Xbox Live gamers. Featuring Bluetooth® wireless technology built directly into the controller, the Wireless LIVE controller and headset allows players to roam around the room free of wires, playing with the same clear sound and precision of a wired solution.
Full Article
(Miami, FL) – March 23, 2005 – Intec, Inc., the leading manufacturer of cross-platform video game accessories, today introduced its Wireless LIVE wireless controller and headset for Xbox Live gamers. Featuring Bluetooth® wireless technology built directly into the controller, the Wireless LIVE controller and headset allows players to roam around the room free of wires, playing with the same clear sound and precision of a wired solution.
Full Article
Doom 3 Release April 3
For more on Doom 3 ------> click HERE, you can still check out a slick video presentation of the new game by clicking on the "NEW DOOM 3 VIDEO" option under links on the right....
New XBTR E-Mail Address
The new e-mail address for XBOX Team Rochester has been set up as xbtr@rochester.rr.com. Please make a note of it.
Updated game schedule posted
New game days scheduled and posted for April! Please remember, YOU HAVE TO REGISTER for the XBTR Online Forum before you can view the calendar, and before you can post new or respond to existing information threads. If you haven't already done so, please register now by CLICKING HERE!!
Have a great day!
JD
Have a great day!
JD
Monday, March 28, 2005
New changes to XBTR Online Forum!
Be sure to check out the new XBTR Online Forum (which you can get to by clicking on the link to the right), as I've been busy making alot of changes to the board.
New color scheme, new topics, a news header which will display the latest and greatest information, and more.
The idea is to grow our Team base, so if anyone has any friends or colleagues who are not already playing in our Clans or in our group, pass the word along about our site.
Chris Bolton will be a Global Moderator for the XBTR Online Forum, so if you're discussions get out of hand, you're at his mercy.
Have a great day...
JD
New color scheme, new topics, a news header which will display the latest and greatest information, and more.
The idea is to grow our Team base, so if anyone has any friends or colleagues who are not already playing in our Clans or in our group, pass the word along about our site.
Chris Bolton will be a Global Moderator for the XBTR Online Forum, so if you're discussions get out of hand, you're at his mercy.
Have a great day...
JD
XBTR Online Forum
Everyone, if you take a look to the right, you'll find a link for the XBOX Team Rochester forum. This way, everyone can post topics as well as respond to existing topics.
I'll use the main post board of the BLOG to post announcements, upcoming events, and so on, and you can still comment on these posts if you like by registering and responding under the "COMMENTS" section.
Hopefully this will work out better, and as I said, this is still a work in progress.
Thanks,
JD
I'll use the main post board of the BLOG to post announcements, upcoming events, and so on, and you can still comment on these posts if you like by registering and responding under the "COMMENTS" section.
Hopefully this will work out better, and as I said, this is still a work in progress.
Thanks,
JD
Sunday, March 27, 2005
Next tournament date?
Anyone given any thought to when we can get online again?
I have several other games in my collection, so if anyone is interested in playing some Ghost Recon 2, Mech Assault 2, or any other LIVE! enabled games, please let us know......
JD
I have several other games in my collection, so if anyone is interested in playing some Ghost Recon 2, Mech Assault 2, or any other LIVE! enabled games, please let us know......
JD
Welcome everyone.....
Good evening all!
I figured we all needed a better forum in which to chat regarding our team of players, and the net is certainly more accessible than checking your respective e-mail every single minute.
Friday's tournament was a blast, and a great time was had by all.
More to follow as I get this blog updated. If you guys have any suggestions on what I can do to improve this forum, please do not hesitate to post or contact me.
Later,
Jeremy (Iceman183)
I figured we all needed a better forum in which to chat regarding our team of players, and the net is certainly more accessible than checking your respective e-mail every single minute.
Friday's tournament was a blast, and a great time was had by all.
More to follow as I get this blog updated. If you guys have any suggestions on what I can do to improve this forum, please do not hesitate to post or contact me.
Later,
Jeremy (Iceman183)
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