The original Xbox was Microsoft’s first entry into the home console market, released in North America on November 15, 2001. As a competitor in the sixth generation of gaming, it distinguished itself with powerful PC-based hardware, a built-in hard drive, and the introduction of its Xbox Live online service. The console is remembered for helping to popularize online console gaming and launching the highly successful Halo franchise.
Key features
- Release and competition: The Xbox entered the market alongside the Nintendo GameCube and Sony’s dominant PlayStation 2.
- PC-like hardware: Unlike most of its rivals, which used custom-designed hardware, the Xbox was built using standard PC components. It featured an Intel Pentium III CPU running at 733 MHz and a custom NVIDIA graphics processor.
- Built-in hard drive: The Xbox was the first home console to include an internal hard disk drive, which allowed for game saves, storing ripped music from CDs for custom soundtracks, and holding downloadable content.
- Xbox Live: The console’s most significant innovation was its integrated, fee-based online gaming service, Xbox Live, which launched in November 2002. It allowed players to easily connect for multiplayer games, supported features like friends lists, and introduced downloadable content.
- “The Duke” controller: The original version of the Xbox came with a large, bulky controller that was criticized for its size. Following feedback, Microsoft released a smaller, more popular “Controller S” version, which became the standard later in the console’s lifespan.
- DVD playback: While it had a built-in DVD-ROM drive, the Xbox required a separately sold “DVD Playback Kit” with an infrared receiver and remote to play DVD movies.
Noteworthy games
The Xbox is remembered for building a strong library of games, including many exclusive hits and fan-favorites:
- Halo: Combat Evolved: A first-person shooter that was a crucial launch title and a major system seller.
- Halo 2: The sequel broke entertainment sales records on its launch day and greatly boosted the popularity of the Xbox Live service.
- Project Gotham Racing: A popular exclusive racing series that built on the legacy of its Dreamcast predecessor.
- Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic: A highly acclaimed role-playing game that is still considered a classic.
- Fable: The first installment of the role-playing game series was a notable exclusive for the console.
- Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: The original game in the stealth series was a timed exclusive for the Xbox.
Legacy and impact
Though it was ultimately outsold by the PlayStation 2, the original Xbox established Microsoft as a major player in the console market. Its legacy includes:
- Pioneering online console gaming: Xbox Live set the standard for online multiplayer and downloadable content, which continues to influence modern gaming.
- Launch of the Halo franchise: The success of Halo turned the series into a gaming icon and a flagship exclusive for the Xbox brand.
- Paving the way for the Xbox 360: The original Xbox’s strong foundation enabled Microsoft to build on its platform with a successful successor, solidifying its place in the industry.