The Xbox® video game system is full of great games for every type of gamer. Hardcore gamers, occasional gamers, laid back gamers: Xbox has you covered.
While you might know that Xbox provides a ton of great games and even gives you the chance to talk and play with others via XboxLive®, you may not know about the Xbox LiveArcade.
If you've heard of Xbox Live Arcade, but still don't know about all it has to offer, you are missing out! On those weekend nights or long holiday weekends when you want to spend time with the whole family but can't agree on one game that suits everyone, you should check out what's new on Xbox Live Arcade.
What's the Catch? Xbox Live Arcade is a menu-driven system. First, you will need an Arcade launcher disk and, of course, an Xbox Liveaccount. For certain Microsoft® games, the launcher disc is offered free with a pre-order. Or you can check out Xbox.com and order a launcher disc with a full version of Ms. Pac-Man included. Then you simply turn on your Xbox, go to the dashboard, and insert the Arcade launcher disc. No need for a new account or any special settings.
To buy the games, you must have the Premium option turned on. If you are a parent, you will also need the lockout code in order to buy a game. To find out if a game is right for you and your family, you can download a playable demo. In a demo, the number of players is limited and certain features are not available, but there is no fee or demo limit.
So then what's the catch? Simply put, there is no catch for the service (unless you think paying $4.99 for a launcher disc is a catch). Xbox Live Arcade opens up a whole new option for families. For the cost of one single game, you can get two or three games individually or a bundle pack of several games.
Types of Games The games range from classic arcade games to those found on the PC, and even sports and other genres. There are four-player arcade games like Feeding Frenzy and Marble Blast. If you and your family like puzzles, how about a game of Bejeweled, or the faster-paced Zuma? Teach the family while playing a game of Hearts or Chess. There is even Mah Jong Tiles, which is different and very addictive. There are also sports, gambling, and card games—something perfect for everyone in the family.
Every game that you download, demo or full version, is right at your fingertips when you pop in the launcher disc. The games all offer the same sound effects and graphics as found in other versions. Mom and Dad can choose and monitor the games their children are playing. But the games are also fun for parents, who can connect online with friends and play a game.
The Credit Card Payment Option If you already have Xbox Live, then you know how secure Microsoft's servers are. Like any pay-per-view, or in this case, pay-to-play service, it needs to be monitored. While it may sound expensive, the games are priced according to the complexity of the game or bundles included. Taking the family out for a movie or even renting a few DVDs can cost more than downloading a couple games from the Xbox Live Arcade.
Bring the Family Together Rather than just one or two members of the family playing, Xbox Live Arcade brings the entire family together to play video games like never before. And with Xbox 360™ coming out later this year, there are sure to be more great family-oriented games available and more features than ever on Xbox Live Arcade.
If you add a few interactive game titles, the Xbox console becomes a combination jukebox, karaoke machine, dance club, movie theater, and arcade! Mixing the night up with several different activities is a breeze. There's no need to switch systems or components, and the whole family is in for a night of fun.
