XBOX at Microsoft GameStock 2001
03/20/2001 12:34:07 PM MST Albuquerque, Nm
By Dustin D. Brand; Owner AMO
Recap of Microsofts' GameStock press only event.
Microsofts' GameStock 2001 was mainly a preview into their upcoming XBOX gaming platform which will be competing head to head with Sony and Nintendo. The GS 2001 coverage started out with a keynote speech from Bill Gates.
First things first. I want to take this time to dispell some rumors that came out of GS 2001. Yes, the AMPED (a confirmed snowboarding title) screenshot (1 of them) was prettied up with Photoshop, but only in the Snowboarder Body. This is not unusual, but isn't to part from what is actually capable of the finished game, which will look better than the screenshot. No cameras were allowed at the event and Microsoft provided all the screenshots.
Secondly, in an interview with New Millennium Entertainment, Inc, a gaming ISP created by ex Sega.Com execs, this ISP is confirmed to be geared towards Dial-Up Modem users, and NOT, I repeat NOT Broadband modem users. NME, Inc. is gearing towards the Dial-Up users because they believe that is where their greatest reach is. It also happens to be the cheapest way to build their system, but besides that, the XBOX is geared towards broadband users and Microsoft has already built support for that using MSN and their Gaming Zone.
On with GS 2001, Halo from Bungie is a confirmed launch title. The scenes look fantastic, and this title should really showcase what the XBOX is capable of. Bungie was purchased by Microsoft more than half a year ago.
Another highly anticipated launch title is Oddword, Munch's Oddysee from Oddworld Inhabitants. This XBOX exclusive like Halo is not going to be on any other system, and with these 2 games alone you can get a feel of the strong backing Microsoft has with Exclusive launch titles.
Not to forget the launch title Malice, by Agronaut. Malice is a cute little girl with a huge sledgehammer, nuff said. Malice is the first platformer exclusive to hit the XBOX at launch.
Sports? You want Sports? How about NFL Fever 2002, yes 2002. Microsoft is developing and publishing this one solo, and they have more than enough game software experience. Look to see several Physics tricks in this title, and don't forget you're playing a game when you play this one.
Anyone remember Dragons Lair 3D? Expect to see this one in all it's intended glory on the XBOX from Developer Dragonstone Software. This title could launch at or around the XBOX launch, and it's another perfect title to showcase the XBOX's abilities.
While some of these games weren't shown at GS 2001, they have been shown in one form or another. The games previewed at GS 2001 were running at about 50% of their power due mainly to the limitations in the XBOX Development systems which are designed that way. Running at 50% and still being ages ahead of other games out there is something to be said about the XBOX.
Keep your eyes and ears peeled here, come May the XBOX and Nintendo are going head to head at E3.
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