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(More customer reviews)XBox Live is Microsoft's online gaming service that allows gamers from all over the world to interact and play together. As of this writing, there are more than 150 games with XBox Live compatibility (including the dynamic Halo 2 and the popular EA Sports games), and more than 1 million subscribers worldwide. This starter kit includes everything one will need to enter the world of XBox Live: A one-year subscription card and a headset, plus a great game: Crimson Skies (rated Teen for some mild language, violence, and suggestive content). However, there are some things people need to know before they get started on XBox Live.
For one, XBox Live will only work with high-speed Internet connections, such as DSL or cable modems. Dial-up is not supported. There are a handful of options for connecting XBox Live to your high-speed service:
Direct connect is the simplest option. The XBox has an Ethernet jack on its back that takes a standard Ethernet cable. If the XBox is close to your PC, then you can simply disconnect the Ethernet jack from the PC and plug it directly into the XBox.
A better option that saves wear and tear on your cables and ports is to use a router. A router will take your incoming Internet connection and allow it to be split between multiple destinations. You can run one line to your PC, and one to the XBox. I recommend (from personal experience) a Linksys brand router.
Another option is to go wireless. If the XBox and the PC are in different rooms, then going wireless may be the best option, rather than run hundreds of feet of Ethernet cable or drill through floors and walls. Once you set up a wireless network in your house using a wireless router, buy a wireless game adapter and you'll be able to play Live almost anywhere in the house.
The Microsoft Wireless-G XBox Adapter is a good solution (Amazon ASIN: B0000C5FMJ). For a wireless network adapter, look again to Linksys; spend a few extra dollars and go with a wireless-G setup. It's about 5x faster than a wireless-B setup for just a few dollars more.
Once you're set up, logging into Live is pretty easy. Your XBox will do most of the work. Hook up the included headset (for talkback) and you're ready to go. I've played Halo 2 with or against people from literally all over the world; one memorable match was against four Marines somewhere in the Pacific. A warning for parents of kids under 17 or so: The language on Live gets pretty rough, with the "f" word being about as common as breathing.(I've been called things I won't repeat in public). There's little, if any moderation, and when it comes to language, anything goes. (Just a friendly warning).
This package includes a one-year subscription card. Once that expires, one can renew using an XBox Live Subscription card (Amazon ASIN: B00005BPJ5, about $50), or you can extend it with the XBox Live 3 Month Starter kit (about $40, ASIN: B00020DGMC; it also includes a headset, so you'll have a spare). Some games (such as Halo 2) include 2-month free trial cards, which you can also use to extend an existing account.
I hope this review was helpful.
--Christian Wheeler, gamer and games retailer
Click Here to see more reviews about: Xbox Live 12-Month Starter Kit
With the Xbox Live 12-Month Start Kit, you'll get connected anywhere people are playing Xbox games -- let the XBox take you and others to alien worlds, professional ball courts and deadly battlefields. Talk up your skills and challenge your buddies with the Xbox Communicator, and download new content online!
Click here for more information about Xbox Live 12-Month Starter Kit
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