The Xbox 360 is Microsoft’s second videogames console, and the followup to the original Xbox. The system uses three 3GHz PowerPC CPUs, 512mb ram and a very powerful graphics card from ATI to produce some stunning next generation graphics.

Last generation, Microsoft came to the market late, with a console that had clear technological superiority. This time, they’re coming early, and compared to the consoles coming from Sony and Nintendo, it’s fairly evenly matched, although Sony’s Playstation 3 will probably have a bit of an edge.

The system is slated for launch in November, with near simultaneous release in the USA, Japan and Europe, the three main games territories. Micrisoft have announced two packages, the Core package, with is £209 and features the console and a wired controller, and the Premium package, which for £279 gives you the console, a wireless controller, a 20gb hard drive, an Xbox Live headset, a media remote control and access to Xbox Live’s Silver service. A bargain.

There are several rumoured launch dates, with as early as November 4th for the American release and 16th and 25th November for the UK/Japanese release.

I’m a big games fan and have got mine pre-ordered already, highly looking forward to it. Some of the big-name games to check out will be: Perfect Dark Zero, Project Gotham Racing 3, Kameo: Elements of Power, Madden NFL and Need for Speed: Most Wanted. There are many others, but I might do some more specific game previews later on.