Our homies over at Geek Thug Radio got their hands on the new Xbox 360. Here is what they think about it…
Mr. Lingo of Geek Thug Radio writes,
Yes, we are aware that it isn’t officially called the Slim, but we know that you’re all calling it that anyway.
Upon opening the package, you’ll find the console, a power brick, a slightly redesigned controller, and a headset. Yes, there is still a power brick, but it is about 60%-80% the size of my existing Elite brick.
When taking a look at the Slim model, before even noticing its size, you will immediately notice the piano black finish. It is beautiful to look at but made me weary about putting my fingertips on it to even take it out. To no surprise, within moments my digits had left dirty remnants on the console.
When placed on top of my original 360 console (for size comparison, not while in use…duh), you can tell that the new version is indeed slimmer, but not in a dramatic way that would make my jaw drop. It is thinner and shorter, but a bit deeper.
The styling is what can be considered a dramatic change from the original release mold. The Slim has sharp, straight lines and is angled towards the middle of the console. Huge vents now occupy the sides and top to provide proper air ventilation and the power button is now recessed. Speaking of the powering on the 360, the giant physical button has been removed for a touch sensitive version, not unlike the PS3; the eject button has received the same treatment.
Gameplay does not seem to have any major changes, although it is definitely quieter. The “whisper quiet” attribute is mostly noticed while the console is idling. This actually caught me by surprise. Sound wasn’t an issue while playing games as the sounds from the game overpowered any noise that the console was providing. Even my HD-DVD experience did not suffer from excess fan noise either. Not that anything could dampen an HD-DVD experience. If the new console is faster, I didn’t notice. Then again, I didn’t have any qualms with the speed in the first place.
The new Xbox 360 is equipped with 5 usb ports, up from the 3 that the older model came with. In addition, a specil AUX port has been included that is set to power and move data between the console and Kinect simultaneously-older models will use a separate power source for the motion controller. Wi-Fi is now included, but I like to keep my console hardwired so I haven’t had a chance to play around with the connection.
The packaged standard controller is of an all black variety, but differs from the existing model in subtle ways. The analogs and d-pad are now black, as opposed to grey, and the Xbox button is shiny chrome. The two analogs have been improved by adding small humps that signify the up-down-left-right directions in addition to adding extra grip.
The hard drive is now house internally and the older hard drive cannot be connected directly. A transfer cable will be needed to move your files between the consoles, or you can use a USB stick to make the switch. I used the transfer cable and ran into no issues.
The new Xbox 360 is a beautiful piece of machinery, there’s no doubt about that, but I don’t feel that current owners should feel too much resentment when looking at their existing console. In the end, it is essentially the same thing with many changes on the cosmetic side. There is supposedly less chances of bricking your console, although this can only be proven with time. If you aren’t a 360 owner, this would be a great one to pick up and will look great on your shelf. Be aware though, the older models have received a price drop. The 250GB is the only Slim available at this time, but an Arcade version is on the horizon.
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