Split-Screen :: The Game-Geek’s Daily Read

For the honest doubts this post raised, read the update here.

At a recent event held in Delhi, Microsoft revealed some very interesting pieces of information. For one thing, most sites have posted conspiracies and possible shots of what appeared as the console’s slim version; Engadget received a tip as far back as May concerning the planned 45nm Valhalla combined CPU / GPU motherboard design for the 360 and how it would most likely come in a new slim case.

(this image here is an artists impression only)

XBOX SLIM

MS execs here confirmed that the Xbox 360 Slim exists and you can expect an official announcement on the console in December. When the redesign will be officially available (in 2009) to consumers is uncertain but this certainly looks to be a worthy purchase to start the New Year, especially with the upcoming October releases of Fallout 3, Fable 2 and Gears of War 2 in India.

FALLOUT 3, FABLE 2 and GEARS OF WAR 2 EARLY TO INDIA

Speaking of the upcoming AAA trio, Indian gamers will be able to test-drive some playable builds of these titles — and that too, a good one week before their official worldwide launches. Yes, we’ll be battling the Skorge, abandoning our pets and touring nuclear wastelands before our compatriots around the world, in what is essentially a repeat of the Indian gaming section playing Halo 3 before it released worldwide.

XBOX 360, 20 GB HDD, WIRELESS CONTROLLER AND 2 GAMES PACKAGE for RS 14,999 ($ 333)

Microsoft also officially announced its new Xbox 360 package deal for India. Get this: An Xbox 360 Core console, a 20 GB HDD, one wireless controller and free copies of Viva Pinata and Forza 2 for Rs. 14,999.

Personally, I think Microsoft can not only further reach out to the average Indian gamers but also introduce them to more nuanced experiences like the original Gears, Bioshock, Call of Duty 4 and Ninja Gaiden II via titles that are fun and have mainstream appeal.