Microsoft is the world's biggest (some would snidely say, the world's only) manufacturer of computer software, programs, and other stuff. They crush the competition and have unlimited resources to develop and create super-cool new programs and products. So, when Microsoft announced it was getting into the video game world with the Xbox, gamers all over the world went beserk - and their enthusiasm was well rewarded. When the Xbox 360 was released on November 22, 2005, it quickly went to the top of the video game charts!

What makes the Xbox 360 one of the best video game platforms out there? Well, first of all, it's made by Microsoft, so you know that it's going to be good. The development, research and work that went into creating the Xbox 360 is almost unparalled in terms of design and work. In fact, Microsoft even went so far as to bring aboard a former Sega president to get involved. Microsoft meant business!

Secondly, the Xbox 360 was released in 2005. Now, that might not be a big deal, but think about when the other big and new gaming consoles were released? That's right, a year later. So, Microsoft and the Xbox 360 had over a year's head start to work out any potential kinks, build customer loyalty, release its library of games and introduce cool Xbox 360 accessories too. In terms of marketing, it's a great ploy when you can trump your competition by being first in the marketplace.

And the Xbox 360 is not just a video game console, it's also a store and a whole new online world. People can purchase accessories for thier system or download the latest games right from the comfort of their living room. And, the Xbox 360 allows people from all over the world to play with and against each other with Xbox Live. If the internet is the world's town square, then the Xbox 360 might be the fashionable little cafe in the corner.

So, just how popular was the Xbox 360 upon its release? Well, despite being launched in late 2005, an Xbox 360 game, Call of Duty 2 was the year's biggest seller. And other game, Saints Row, passed the 1,000,000 mark in units sold.

Nothing blew up quite like the Xbox 360 when it was released, and it still continues to be strong today. It was a big seller at Christmas, partly due to the fact that other, newer consoles sold out, and from the fact that Microsoft capitalized on this situation by branding the Xbox 360 as the video game system that isn't an IOU!