New 360 Premium Bundle w/ Forza & MUA @ Costco

[jazzman]

FYI

Saw these at Costco last night, bundle includes:
- 360 Premium w/ Forza & MUA (both games in one case, probably on one disk)
- extra wireless controller
- play & charge kit

The bundles were going for $399.99.

*I thought these bundles weren't supposed to be out until the end of the month.

[freshzen]

Costco is forcing you to buy an extra controller to get the bundle? That isn't very cost saving of them.

[help1]

Costco is forcing you to buy an extra controller to get the bundle? That isn't very cost saving of them.but you get a play and charge too. Unless it usually comes with that?

[PyroGamer]

Actually they're probably NOT on one disk. But that's just my guess.

[Jewelz23]

I hope they are not on just one disc...

[nodnarborama]

do these new systems have the HDMI ?

[shrike4242]

Previous in-store bundle @ Costco had the following:

Xbox 360 Premium
2nd wireless controller
Play-and-charge kit
Xbox Live Arcade Unplugged Vol #1

This was also $399, though I'm not sure if it comes with the XBLA Unplugged Vol #1 this time around. Most likely not.

I'm hoping it's the newer systems with HDMI, as the replacement for my dead one was the same older 2006-09-03 manufacture as my previous system. Costco didn't have any 360's when I was in there last time a couple of weeks ago, though hopefully they do, and it is the newer rev of the 90nm system or the 65nm system.

[kevlar51]

Last week my Costco still had about 10 Halo 3 consoles. Hopefully they don't wait for those to sell out before they get these new ones in.

[Wolfpup]

I assume these are the Microsoft bundle, not just Costco sticking in those two games in with a regular system?

If so, if anyone buys one of these let us know the manufacture date and model (ie ancient, Zepher (most likely?) or hopefully Falcon.)

I'm thinking this bundle will end up being my 4th 360, so long as it's at least a Zepher.

[rockytrh]

friggin hell, my stupid city doesn't have any of these stores where you can find any of the stuff from here, lol. No CC, no Costco.......

Does anybody know, will GS be selling these new bundles?

[OMGpenguin]

Costco has had 360's only in bundles. Sure, you're forced to get the extra controller and play and charge kit, but you're getting the best warranty ever.

My 1st 360 broke, they took it back, and luckily the price had dropped on their bundle (I'm guessing because of the arcade title), so not only did I get a same-day replacement, but I got an indirect price adjustment as well.

[kevlar51]

Costco has had 360's only in bundles. Sure, you're forced to get the extra controller and play and charge kit, but you're getting the best warranty ever.

My 1st 360 broke, they took it back, and luckily the price had dropped on their bundle (I'm guessing because of the arcade title), so not only did I get a same-day replacement, but I got an indirect price adjustment as well.
When the prices dropped, they adjusted the price on my 4-month old 360. No problem with the process whatsoever. I didn't have to, but I've heard other people asking to speak to managers and have the price adjusted well after the typical 30-day period so that the store wouldn't have to eat the costs of the customer "taking advantage" of the warranty.

[prateeko]

Screw the bundles, like you don't need an extra controller?

I'm for Costco's warranty I'd gladly SAVE money (price of controller alone is technically $50).

[DomLando]

Hopefully now we will find out soon if all these bundles have the new chip. If so, I will be picking up an Elite.

[Calico]

were the bundled games in the one box or are they in a bigger plastic package that costco put together?

[K_G]

Unlike like Christmas, when various retailers each got a different packed in game (best buy got game x, walmart got game y), it seems that all premium units made by MS for a least a certain period of time will have the same two games packed in. The package described is the standard costco premium bundle at the standard costco price...its MS that's adding the 2 games not Costco. The savings is that you get the charge and play for free, which really isn't that much of a deal...although as someone else wrote, the warranty is better at Costco than other stores. However, that said, there almost certainly will be better deals in Nov and Dec at other retailers, similar to last year, with retailers bundling additional free games or gift cards with the sale of a system.

[kevlar51]

The savings is that you get the charge and play for free, which really isn't that much of a deal...although as someone else wrote, the warranty is better at Costco than other stores. However, that said, there almost certainly will be better deals in Nov and Dec at other retailers, similar to last year, with retailers bundling additional free games or gift cards the sales of a system.

True though, if Arcade Unplugged (or some other game not included everwhere else) isn't thrown in, this bundle becomes less deal-worthy.

[freshzen]

but you get a play and charge too. Unless it usually comes with that?

360 = $350
Controller = $40 (some places charge $50 but they've been $40 at amazon and other fine retailers for a long time now)
Play & Charge Kit = $10-20

So you're saving **maybe** $5-10. Pretty lame considering they charge an annual fee just to shop their (and no I do not need a giant 3 lbs jar of mayo thanks).

[shrike4242]

I have to run by Costco in the next few days, so I'll grab the details about what's in it, if no one else does.

[elmyra]

360 = $350
Controller = $40 (some places charge $50 but they've been $40 at amazon and other fine retailers for a long time now)
Play & Charge Kit = $10-20

So you're saving **maybe** $5-10. Pretty lame considering they charge an annual fee just to shop their (and no I do not need a giant 3 lbs jar of mayo thanks).

On the other hand, the Costco return policy is especially nice when you're talking about a product with the failure rate of the 360. And Costco has a lot of good deals other than bulk food products.

[Papageno]

I know I'm going to Costco to check it out after work...

[freshzen]

On the other hand, the Costco return policy is especially nice when you're talking about a product with the failure rate of the 360. And Costco has a lot of good deals other than bulk food products.

Maybe I was misinformed but I was going to pay for a membership and buy a 360 a while back and they told me that warranties were not included in the price, nor did they offer an in store warranty.

I think the lady might've thought I was some of type scammer and and I somehow going to buy a new system and return a different one that wasn't working--so that might be why she gave me incorrect information.

I ended up buying one a Target cause they only charged $30 for a 3 year warranty but I don't think its as good as a GameStop/Best Buy warranty--I think they will actually try to have the system repaired instead of just giving you a new one.

[P dad]

I bought my first 360 a few weeks ago at costco. Old bundle with arcade vol 1 for $389 and a copy of Halo 3 $49. The 360 lasted less than 2 days and brought it back and picked up the Halo edition 360 no questions asked. The costco Warranty on 360's is amazing and worth any pack in.

[Mad-B-Man]

I just return a dead 360 at costco a couple hours ago. They didn't even ask what was wrong with it. Hell, they didn't even mind that I forgot to bring a cable. I bought it with an instant rebate, but they didn't take that into consideration while giving me the refund, so I got an additional 25 bucks.

While I love my membership there (Executive cashback basically paying for itself with all the crap I buy), getting a membership just to buy a console might not be worth it. Though keep in mid that you don't have to have a membershipp to shop online. You do have to pay an extra percentage, but you still can return it whenever I belive. Sure, it comes out to no saving in the end, but with that return policy?

[kevlar51]

I bought my first 360 a few weeks ago at costco. Old bundle with arcade vol 1 for $389 and a copy of Halo 3 $49. The 360 lasted less than 2 days and brought it back and picked up the Halo edition 360 no questions asked. The costco Warranty on 360's is amazing and worth any pack in.

Did you turn in your copy of Halo along with it?

[elmyra]

Maybe I was misinformed but I was going to pay for a membership and buy a 360 a while back and they told me that warranties were not included in the price, nor did they offer an in store warranty.

I think the lady might've thought I was some of type scammer and and I somehow going to buy a new system and return a different one that wasn't working--so that might be why she gave me incorrect information.

They don't offer a warranty, it's a "satisfaction guarantee." It means that except for certain items like TVs and computers, they'll generally take returns without a time limit if you keep the original packaging and such. Whether or not there really is a time limit depends on your local warehouse manager - some will limit you to something like two years, but I've been told that my local store is really liberal on that policy.

[mrhappi79]

360 = $350
Controller = $40 (some places charge $50 but they've been $40 at amazon and other fine retailers for a long time now)
Play & Charge Kit = $10-20

So you're saving **maybe** $5-10. Pretty lame considering they charge an annual fee just to shop their (and no I do not need a giant 3 lbs jar of mayo thanks).

Aren't you forgetting to factor in the value of the 2 games that come bundled with it? In that case you're saving more than just $5-10 right?

[P dad]

Yes I returned the Reg edition copy of Halo 3 game with it. I think it is possible that the game destroyed the first 360 and that is what I told them.....

[phutu]

didn't sombody from SD said that the new bundle has the old 360 with old heatsink and stuff?
Could sombody who got this bundle confirm?

[SNKMat]

teh bundlez

[tenzor]

im going to bite on this if it has the new chip and hdmi for sure. Then i'll just trade my old 360 to Gamestop and put it towards games like Mass Effect and Assasssin Creed etc.

[Chanash]

Ill head over to costco in my hood and check this out.

[reverse]

I was at Costco today, looks like they won't have it until Friday morning. Pretty ironic considering I went to the Costco where their brand started, Kirkland, WA.

I'll check Friday and of course, I want the lot 374 or better (with the falcon, hdmi).

[Calico]

I was at Costco today, looks like they won't have it until Friday morning. Pretty ironic considering I went to the Costco where their brand started, Kirkland, WA.

I'll check Friday and of course, I want the lot 374 or better (with the falcon, hdmi).

I thought it was lot 734 or newer and only confirmed on the Halo3 green and orange ones. Are the ones in the premiums of lot 734 and newer falcons?

[Thongsy]

I was at my costco the other day, and we just had normal 360 bundles, without the two games, same price, but the system did have hdmi. I might pick up a 360 for my brother for christmas, so hopefully there will be a good deal.

[shrike4242]

My local Costco, which didn't have any 360's 2 weeks ago when I was last there, only had the Halo 3 SE version when I went there yesterday. I asked a rep about the regular bundle, and she said that all they'd get in was the Halo 3 bundle. :-s I certainly don't want that one.

What I need to do is dig up my receipt and call them to check on the availability of the SKU # from it, and see if that's coming in-stock.

[minhaferzz]

The Costco in Plano, TX had plenty of the new bundles in stock. I was debating on either getting the Halo one or the new bundle, but decided on getting the new bundle.

[DomLando]

The Costco in Plano, TX had plenty of the new bundles in stock. I was debating on either getting the Halo one or the new bundle, but decided on getting the new bundle.
Any idea if it has the new chip?

[minhaferzz]

Any idea if it has the new chip?

I don't believe so, it's from lot 731.

[dmaul1114]

Yeah, I imagine most of the bundles will be older stock....good way to clear out any remaining non-HDMI systems and all the Zephyrs or older chip sets.

So I doubt we'll see many, if any, HDMIs with Falcon motherboards in the bundles. Hopefully at least some HDMI's with the old chips and added heat sink though.

[phutu]

LOT 731 does have hdmi and new heatsink right?

[PikaPichu]

Just bought one the other day. There are 2 game discs inside the case and the 360 that I got shows a manufacture date of 8/11/07 and has HDMI. I looked through the vents and saw copper piping. Probably has the extra heatsink bit but probably not a Falcon console. The DVD drive is just as loud as my previous unit.

[Wolfpup]

That stinks about the loud drive.

From what I've read the new Falcon units DON'T have the copper piping again. basically no copper piping means it's either really old, or really new.

Zepher should be reliable though...hopefully. At any rate the Falcon systems still have the 90nm GPU, and it's the GPU that's been causing a lot of the problems, so...

[shrike4242]

That stinks about the loud drive.

From what I've read the new Falcon units DON'T have the copper piping again. basically no copper piping means it's either really old, or really new.

Zepher should be reliable though...hopefully. At any rate the Falcon systems still have the 90nm GPU, and it's the GPU that's been causing a lot of the problems, so...Feel free to wait until August 2008 or later, if you want a unit with a 65nm CPU and 65nm GPU.

[PikaPichu]

Feel free to wait until August 2008 or later, if you want a unit with a 65nm CPU and 65nm GPU.

Really? Is that unit coming out for sure?

[shrike4242]

Really? Is that unit coming out for sure?It's a rumor, so far.

[AtariST]

360 = $350
Controller = $40 (some places charge $50 but they've been $40 at amazon and other fine retailers for a long time now)
Play & Charge Kit = $10-20

So you're saving **maybe** $5-10. Pretty lame considering they charge an annual fee just to shop their (and no I do not need a giant 3 lbs jar of mayo thanks).
You are absolutely correct. Costco pricing sucks. However, considering the fact that I am on my fourth 360 in just over a year and Costco takes them back no questions asked, it is worth it to me.

I will not buy an MS product without being real sure I can get satisfaction upon failure. The failure being a certainty and the satisfaction being an impossibility when dealing directly with MS.

[von551]

I have to run by Costco in the next few days, so I'll grab the details about what's in it, if no one else does.

i was there last night and actually saw this bundle. it's a great deal.

[abreed]

From what I have seen, the current bundles are just the typical Premium system with the games thrown in and a sticker placed on the front. These were put together in store (aka Costco employees did it and resealed the system). GameStop employees have been confirmed doing this, and not sending the current in stock system back to Microsoft. The actual bundles are coming, and they will be in a different box with "Go Pro" on the box. Those could have Falcon in them. The ones with just the sticker on the box will not be Falcon, since they are just current supply.

[von551]

360 = $350
Controller = $40 (some places charge $50 but they've been $40 at amazon and other fine retailers for a long time now)
Play & Charge Kit = $10-20

So you're saving **maybe** $5-10. Pretty lame considering they charge an annual fee just to shop their (and no I do not need a giant 3 lbs jar of mayo thanks).

ummmmm, aren't you forgetting the TWO $60 games as well? $350+$40+$20+$60+$60=$530! That's $130 in savings smart guy. even if that's the ONLY thing you're trying to save money on, it's worth it, membership is $50, still gonna save almost $100. dude, spend $100 at costco and you'll pay for your membership once. they have sick deals on car tires (got my michelin hydroedge's), tvs, digital cameras (i got my canon rebel xti), magazines, snacks (2 lbs. of beef jerky for $10), etc. not to mention their gasoline is the cheapest around.

[von551]

You are absolutely correct. Costco pricing sucks.

no he's not, and no it doesn't. u really think costco prices suck? they're the best around when it comes to stuff like this.see my post above.

[carthum]

ummmmm, aren't you forgetting the TWO $60 games as well? $350+$40+$20+$60+$60=$530! That's $130 in savings smart guy. even if that's the ONLY thing you're trying to save money on, it's worth it, membership is $50, still gonna save almost $100. dude, spend $100 at costco and you'll pay for your membership once. they have sick deals on car tires (got my michelin hydroedge's), tvs, digital cameras (i got my canon rebel xti), magazines, snacks (2 lbs. of beef jerky for $10), etc. not to mention their gasoline is the cheapest around.

The pack ins (marvel and foza) are going to be everywhere for 349 in a week or two so they shouldn't be counted as anything extra.

A wireless controller is going to cost 30.99 from buy.com after google check out. A play and charge kit will cost 6.99. So if you were talk walk into any retail store and buy an xbox then order those two things from buy.com the cost would be 349.99 + 37.98 =387.97. The only reason to buy from costco is their warrenty that however, is a pretty compelling reason.

[OMGpenguin]

I have not used the second controller that came with mine, but the "warranty" is enough to justify paying extra for.

Costco has great prices on pretty much everything, but their phone vendors inside some warehouses (who aren't affiliated with costco) will rip you off :(

[mugs]

The pack ins (marvel and foza) are going to be everywhere for 349 in a week or two so they shouldn't be counted as anything extra.

A wireless controller is going to cost 30.99 from buy.com after google check out. A play and charge kit will cost 6.99. So if you were talk walk into any retail store and buy an xbox then order those two things from buy.com the cost would be 349.99 + 37.98 =387.97. The only reason to buy from costco is their warrenty that however, is a pretty compelling reason.

Double-dipping on a deal that is intended for new customers only is hardly comparable to a deal that the store INTENDS to offer.

[SteveGo]

This bundle is item #366660. Should be at all the Costco's in our region (San Diego) by the end of next week.

[von551]

The pack ins (marvel and foza) are going to be everywhere for 349 in a week or two so they shouldn't be counted as anything extra.

A wireless controller is going to cost 30.99 from buy.com after google check out. A play and charge kit will cost 6.99. So if you were talk walk into any retail store and buy an xbox then order those two things from buy.com the cost would be 349.99 + 37.98 =387.97. The only reason to buy from costco is their warrenty that however, is a pretty compelling reason.

oh ok, but still. i see a P&C kit for $23 with shipping on buy.com and i'm sure most people have already signed up and used their $10 google checkout $350+$23+$40=$413. the warranty and price adjustments make it worth while, plus i hear alot of gripes about buy.com. can't beat peace of mind and ease of walking out a store with what u want, not waiting for unreliable online sellers.

[von551]

This bundle is item #366660. Should be at all the Costco's in our region (San Diego) by the end of next week.

yeah, they're already in san diego. saw a few last night at my local SD costco.

[kenbo506]

Double-dipping on a deal that is intended for new customers only is hardly comparable to a deal that the store INTENDS to offer.
I agree. Good call.

I just took a quick look at Amazon for these bundles. They don't have them yet but the cost of the extra wireless controller and the play and charge kit amounts to $50. I guess you could say Costco's bundle has Amazon pricing? $34.99 for the controller and $14.99 for the P&C kit.

[carthum]

Double-dipping on a deal that is intended for new customers only is hardly comparable to a deal that the store INTENDS to offer.

Or you can just have coworkers place and order for you and pay them back. Most are more than happy to do it for a coffee.

[PikaPichu]

I've played with my new 360 from Costco all day yesterday (I can't believe I did all freaking day!) and the system didn't get nearly as hot as my previous system did. I guess that new heatsink thing really helps.

[runciter]

Just curious about you people doing a 360 exchange at Costco... do you all not buy games/things on XBLM? The purchases are tied to both the GT and the console so if you just put the old HD in the new console, you'd only be able to play with purchases when connected with Live. If Costco has some mojo deal with Microsoft, I'll definately get my neXtbox there.

[shrike4242]

I had to go through this with my previous 360 that died, and it's correct. You need to be on XBL to play any previously purchased games.

[Xlyder]

I'm so confuse! I been waiting from MS to ship my console but is been delayed over a month. heck i'll run to COSTCO just to get it today if this is the new system.

Can some one clear me on the difference betwen this Zephyr syste and Falcon system and 90nm and 65nm. and once I know which one is the best, how will I tell them apart. I want to go to costco and check them out, if they are the ones im taking one.

Thanks

[dmaul1114]

Can some one clear me on the difference betwen this Zephyr syste and Falcon system and 90nm and 65nm.

Difference is the Zephyr's have the 90nm CPU chip, while Falcons have the 65nm CPU. All that means is the CPU chip is smaller. Theoretically it should put out less heat, which may reduce problems slightly. But in reality, it probably will make little difference since the GPU (graphics chip) is still 90nm in both, and that is what is causing most of the over heating problems.

The heatsink, which the Zephyr and the falcons will have, is more likely to solve the problem. So moral of the story, either should be fine.

As for telling a Zephyr, look under the flap on the box and it will say Zephyr. From what I've read, there's no way to identify Falcon's for sure yet. Just some guesses on lot numbers, manufacture dates etc., but nothing firm.

[foltzie]

FYI

Saw these at Costco last night, bundle includes:
- 360 Premium w/ Forza & MUA (both games in one case, probably on one disk)
- extra wireless controller
- play & charge kit

The bundles were going for $399.99.

*I thought these bundles weren't supposed to be out until the end of the month.

Is there an Elite bundle?

[fretster]

On the other hand, the Costco return policy is especially nice when you're talking about a product with the failure rate of the 360. And Costco has a lot of good deals other than bulk food products.
I just returned my 360 bundle I had bought from them on March 20 2006. Got a full refund in cash, turned around and purchased the Halo 3 bundle they have. There was absoutely no hassle in the return; they just wanted me to bring back everything that it had come with originally, then they checked in their computer that I had and handed me the cash. If I wanted a "similar" return/exchange plan at say Circuit City or Best Buy I would have to pay an additional 50-100$ ontop of the cost of the console purchase. The cost of membership is 35$ a year, and while I don't need a 30gal tub of mayo either, there are other deals there that the everyman can definitely take advantage of.

[Xlyder]

Thanks,

I'm going 2 head over to costcoright now. Probably end up getting this bundle. I was reading that MS is realeasing a Xbox 360 Arcade System around the end of the month. (http://www.gamingbits.com/content/view/2795/2/) Now im curious if an up to date premium bundles will come out around the same date.

I'll post things up on what costco will do if in fact I buy a system now and a new one comes out in a week or so. Will they replace it with a new one? Compensate the difference?

And i'll look for the zephir name under the box.

[PikaPichu]

Thanks,

I'm going 2 head over to costcoright now. Probably end up getting this bundle. I was reading that MS is realeasing a Xbox 360 Arcade System around the end of the month. (http://www.gamingbits.com/content/view/2795/2/) Now im curious if an up to date premium bundles will come out around the same date.

I'll post things up on what costco will do if in fact I buy a system now and a new one comes out in a week or so. Will they replace it with a new one? Compensate the difference?

And i'll look for the zephir name under the box.

All you need to know is that if you're 'unsatisfied' with your Xbox purchased from costco, just bring it along with the receipt back and they'll give you a full cash refund. All they really do is check to make sure that everything's there.

[shrike4242]

As for telling a Zephyr, look under the flap on the box and it will say Zephyr. From what I've read, there's no way to identify Falcon's for sure yet. Just some guesses on lot numbers, manufacture dates etc., but nothing firm.You can't inspect the console's manufacture date and possible type until you get the system out of its plastic cocoon. All the bundle items are in a nice plastic shell, so you'll have to check that out when you get home.

[darkclawsofchaos]

Difference is the Zephyr's have the 90nm CPU chip, while Falcons have the 65nm CPU. All that means is the CPU chip is smaller. Theoretically it should put out less heat, which may reduce problems slightly. But in reality, it probably will make little difference since the GPU (graphics chip) is still 90nm in both, and that is what is causing most of the over heating problems.

The heatsink, which the Zephyr and the falcons will have, is more likely to solve the problem. So moral of the story, either should be fine.

As for telling a Zephyr, look under the flap on the box and it will say Zephyr. From what I've read, there's no way to identify Falcon's for sure yet. Just some guesses on lot numbers, manufacture dates etc., but nothing firm.

Wrong, sorta, not all zephyrs have the second heat sink, some of them uses a copper pipe with a x-clamp. The rest is true, but to identify a falcon, you must have the following:

Lot #0734 (Halo 3) or later (all SKUs) (So far only Halo 3 Lot 0734 consoles have been found with 65nm)
Manufactured on or after 8/24/07
Team FDOU (Other teams may be Falcon as well, but none have been reported)How to find Lot and Team info:
There is a white sticker on the side of the box with the lot # and team. In order to find the manufacturing date without opening the box, there is a flap on the side of the box that allows you to peek inside and see the manufacturing date on the console itself.

Okay

[godsantagonist]

please, please, please refrain from spreading confusing information...you need to clarify your data. it should state these are the bare minimum standards to get one, and then you still might not.

there have been reports of later lots NOT being a falcon. as far as i have read, only h3 360's have been identified as falcons, and not all of them in that criteria you specified are falcons, some are zephyrs. i know where you quoted it from, but even there the wording is not clear.

see here: http://forums.xbox.com/24/15804553/ShowPost.aspx#15804553

and here: http://forums.xbox.com/ShowPost.aspx?PageIndex=64&PostID=14713652

for more info.

[thericochet]

Just curious about you people doing a 360 exchange at Costco... do you all not buy games/things on XBLM? The purchases are tied to both the GT and the console so if you just put the old HD in the new console, you'd only be able to play with purchases when connected with Live. If Costco has some mojo deal with Microsoft, I'll definately get my neXtbox there.

I'm curious about this too. I bought a bundle (Extra contr, play & charge, XBLA Unplugged) from Costco 2 months ago (Manf. Date of early 2006, eesh) and want to know what I'm in for in case I have to return it.

[Xlyder]

GOT IT

Lot 0730 so probably they are not falcons.

The games come each as a cd in one single case

I got this cus if the falcon's do come out in the coming weeks i'll return it on the spot with no hassle. :) alright costco.

[jshawnd]

Are all the Halo 3 bundles Falcons? And will they be bundled with the two free games?

I can't believe I'm so concerned about this...

[Nogib]

Are all the Halo 3 bundles Falcons?

Nope

[darkclawsofchaos]

please, please, please refrain from spreading confusing information...you need to clarify your data. it should state these are the bare minimum standards to get one, and then you still might not.

there have been reports of later lots NOT being a falcon. as far as i have read, only h3 360's have been identified as falcons, and not all of them in that criteria you specified are falcons, some are zephyrs. i know where you quoted it from, but even there the wording is not clear.

see here: http://forums.xbox.com/24/15804553/ShowPost.aspx#15804553

and here: http://forums.xbox.com/ShowPost.aspx?PageIndex=64&PostID=14713652

for more info.

I see... apparently you know more and my source was in the same forum as yours, only yours is a more recent post, sorry for the confusion, but then, the only way to truely know if you have one is to buy it and do the flashlight method since I doubt the clerk will allow you to open the box and start staring into the thing with a flashlight, damn the relabeling

[godsantagonist]

sorry for upsetting you...

there has now been one report of a pro holiday bindle having no heatsink in hawaii. there is no definite way of knowing what chipset you will get. get the latest and hope for the best. again, go to those threads listed and read them. g'luck everbody.

[Wolfpup]

I had to go through this with my previous 360 that died, and it's correct. You need to be on XBL to play any previously purchased games.

Was this prior to the spring '07 update? Someone on here claimed (acted like it was fact) that after the spring 07 update all that's needed is your gamertag that purchased the games. So, for example, you'd be able to take a hard drive off one unit, stick it on another, and have access to all your games without ever connecting to the internet.

[dmaul1114]

Are all the Halo 3 bundles Falcons? And will they be bundled with the two free games?

I can't believe I'm so concerned about this...

Not all the Halo 3 are, and I don't think any of the 2 game bundle ones have been falcons.

Don't be so worried about it, they probably won't help much over the Zephyrs. The added heat sink should solve the problem. A smaller CPU, when the GPU is the main heat culprit, shouldn't make much difference.

[shrike4242]

Was this prior to the spring '07 update? Someone on here claimed (acted like it was fact) that after the spring 07 update all that's needed is your gamertag that purchased the games. So, for example, you'd be able to take a hard drive off one unit, stick it on another, and have access to all your games without ever connecting to the internet.For each game that I wanted to play that I had previously purchased, it required me to DL it again to play it.

[Mercenari]

Got mine yesterday Lot 736 9-08-07 old HS&F bummer... I was all happy till I looked inside...

[Wolfpup]

Like people have said, there's not much of a difference. The Falcon's don't change the GPU, which has apparently been the real problem.

[pete5883]

But they do apparently change the x-clamp, which is the real problem with the GPU.

[Wet Ninja]

All you need to know is that if you're 'unsatisfied' with your Xbox purchased from costco, just bring it along with the receipt back and they'll give you a full cash refund. All they really do is check to make sure that everything's there.

So will Costco let you exchange a 360 for a new one if it dies? I'm planning on buying my first 360 in a few weeks, and Costco is one of the places I'm considering.

[Foo228]

So will Costco let you exchange a 360 for a new one if it dies? I'm planning on buying my first 360 in a few weeks, and Costco is one of the places I'm considering.

yep...that's one of the main benefits from them and sams club

just don't over abuse the priveledge

[Serpentor]

ah, sucks, i was so hyped that the X360 will not have the RRoD problem with the new chip... Well, i'm still okay with the $408.89 X360 bundle from FRY...

[dmaul1114]

ah, sucks, i was so hyped that the X360 will not have the RRoD problem with the new chip... Well, i'm still okay with the $408.89 X360 bundle from FRY...

The new heat sinks (in every unit manuf after July) will do more to solve the problem than the new chips anyway.

[darkclawsofchaos]

Are you allowed to keep the HDD when you return it?

[shrike4242]

Are you allowed to keep the HDD when you return it?As I have a 120GB drive on my Costco-purchased 360, when I swapped it in August, I cracked open the box when I paid for it and gave them the 20GB hard drive out of the new package.

[Serpentor]

The new heat sinks (in every unit manuf after July) will do more to solve the problem than the new chips anyway.

yeah, thank dmaul, i see that you put a lot of research into this :)

as for me, i always thought the new chip is the key to the RRoD problem. Anyhow, it's the sinker huh, well, better with the new sinker than the old one. Just hope the new batch of X360s don't have this problem. The RRoD really gives the X360 some serious bad rep...

[dmaul1114]

yeah, thank dmaul, i see that you put a lot of research into this :)

as for me, i always thought the new chip is the key to the RRoD problem. Anyhow, it's the sinker huh, well, better with the new sinker than the old one. Just hope the new batch of X360s don't have this problem. The RRoD really gives the X360 some serious bad rep...

Well, the issue is that it's the GPU that over heats. The new chips are 65nm CPU, the GPU is still the same old 90nm chips, so the falcon's shouldn't do much. Unless they had something other than just the new CPU.

[Vajra]

So since I'm torn about the Amazon deal, let me ask.

Are all bundles seen at Costco with the extra wireless controller and play and charge kit? Or has anyone seen Costco with the Marvel/Forza 360 for $350 without controller/play & charge.

[DomLando]

Well, the issue is that it's the GPU that over heats. The new chips are 65nm CPU, the GPU is still the same old 90nm chips, so the falcon's shouldn't do much. Unless they had something other than just the new CPU.
So if I pick up an Elite bundle at a store is it going to have the new heatsink?

[pogipinoy27]

So since I'm torn about the Amazon deal, let me ask.

Are all bundles seen at Costco with the extra wireless controller and play and charge kit? Or has anyone seen Costco with the Marvel/Forza 360 for $350 without controller/play & charge.


I doubt it. Costco, as all wherehouse clubs in general, sell everything in bulk. The only things I've seen them sell singularly are (ironically) some of the other electronics (Cameras, Computers, HDTVs, video games).

The deal isn't really that bad though. It's about what you'd pay retail when you factor in tax...but Costco's extremely liberal return policy makes the purchase worth it imo.

[shrike4242]

So since I'm torn about the Amazon deal, let me ask.

Are all bundles seen at Costco with the extra wireless controller and play and charge kit? Or has anyone seen Costco with the Marvel/Forza 360 for $350 without controller/play & charge.The only bundles I've seen in-store have had a game bundle-packed in (PGR3 or Arcade Unplugged Vol. 1), a 2nd controller and a play-and-charge kit. The Halo 3 bundle has Halo 3 CE and a Spartan controller packed-in, not sure about the P&C as well as a P&C.

The bundles on Costco.com are similarly packed in:
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11234969&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US
(Pro system + Halo 3 + Quick Charge + 2nd controller)

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11234961&whse=BC&topnav=&browse=&lang=en-US
(Pro system + Madden 08 + Quick Charge + 2nd controller)

There's been an Elite bundle as well, also packed in with extras. None of the 360's, or any consoles/handhelds as well, come as item-only. They're always packed-in with something.

[Wolfpup]

For each game that I wanted to play that I had previously purchased, it required me to DL it again to play it.

Oh okay...so then it was tied to the new console I take it and could be played offline? Well, that's not ideal, but it's better than what Nintendo and Sony are doing, from what I've heard. Thanks for the info!

So since I'm torn about the Amazon deal, let me ask.

Wait...WHAT Amazon deal? I can't find anything on their site, and I haven't seen anything on here about an Amazon deal. I trust Amazon (and have Prime)...so an Amazon deal would work for me! :D

[kevlar51]

I'm amazed at all the Costco hate in here. That store's gotten scads of my money in exchange for really great deals.

[Wolfpup]

Costco's awesome. I wish I had one around here (just Sam's Club, which is a cruel joke by comparison).

[kenbo506]

I picked up my holiday bundle at Costco last night. I asked about the return policy and they said it's only 90 days.

I guess it varies by store so I would advise checking before you buy.

[radjago]

Oh okay...so then it was tied to the new console I take it and could be played offline? Well, that's not ideal, but it's better than what Nintendo and Sony are doing, from what I've heard. Thanks for the info!
XBLA games are tied to the console. If you move to a new console, you have to re-download all your games unless you move the hard drive over. Either way, you will not be able to play your XBLA games on the new console while offline. When you have the Live account with which you purchased the content signed in, you can play any of your games on any of the accounts on that box, as long as the purchasing account is signed in as well.

[saqqy]

my costco (azusa, ca) looks like they reused their old unsold xbox consoles because the lot numbers are 729 and 731, quite old. The 2 games are not in the console box, it is displayed outside the box.

[shrike4242]

My Costco says they have the bundles in-stock. I think I'll go swap it this weekend.

[pogipinoy27]

I picked up my holiday bundle at Costco last night. I asked about the return policy and they said it's only 90 days.

I guess it varies by store so I would advise checking before you buy.

That's surprising to me. Does the 360 fall under "computer" ? Here are the official return guidelines as per costco.com...


Returns
Membership: We will refund your membership fee in full at any time if you are dissatisfied.
Merchandise: We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund. Exceptions: Televisions, projectors, computers, cameras, camcorders, iPOD / MP3 players and cellular phones must be returned within 90 days of purchase for a refund.

How to Return: Simply return your purchase at any one of our Costco warehouses worldwide for a refund (including shipping and handling). If you are unable to return your order at one of our warehouses, please email customerservice@costco.com or call our customer service center at 1-800-955-2292 for assistance. To expedite the processing of your return, please reference your order number.

[kenbo506]

That's surprising to me. Does the 360 fall under "computer" ? Here are the official return guidelines as per costco.com...


Returns
Membership: We will refund your membership fee in full at any time if you are dissatisfied.
Merchandise: We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell with a full refund. Exceptions: Televisions, projectors, computers, cameras, camcorders, iPOD / MP3 players and cellular phones must be returned within 90 days of purchase for a refund.

How to Return: Simply return your purchase at any one of our Costco warehouses worldwide for a refund (including shipping and handling). If you are unable to return your order at one of our warehouses, please email customerservice@costco.com or call our customer service center at 1-800-955-2292 for assistance. To expedite the processing of your return, please reference your order number.
Yeah, I guess they are counting it as a computer.

I had read the return policy several times before going to Costco so I knew the closest thing was "computer". I asked the rep if that's what they were classifying it as and he said yes.

[shrike4242]

It's not a computer. My holiday bundle, which was purchased on 12/17/06 was returned in late August without any issue.

[kenbo506]

I don't think it's a computer either. After calling several Costcos numerous times and getting different answers about whether the bundle was in stock, I'm skeptical about whatever they tell me.

I suppose it won't hurt to try and return it after the 90 days if something happens. Worst case scenario is I'm prepared if they don't take it back. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I won't even need to try and return it.

[jazzman]

Off the topic, but has anyone seen an Elite bundle at their local warehouses? They no longer offer it online or its OOS.

[kevlar51]

my costco told me 6 months; it's different everywhere. how many do you have near your house?

they just built a new one near us which puts a total of four within a 20 minute drive!

[kenbo506]

my costco told me 6 months; it's different everywhere. how many do you have near your house?

they just built a new one near us which puts a total of four within a 20 minute drive!
I've got about four within about 20-30 minutes too. The one I bought it at is not the usual one I go to.

[saqqy]

btw, my lot 731 "holiday bundle" from costco started getting rrod problems on day 2.... sad, but this is why i purchased from there.

[marctina]

Yeah, I guess they are counting it as a computer.

I had read the return policy several times before going to Costco so I knew the closest thing was "computer". I asked the rep if that's what they were classifying it as and he said yes.


Come on guys! Why do we have to go through this on every COSTCO thread?

It is not a flipping computer! There is no return policy limit on gaming consoles. The Costco employee DOES NOT KNOW what they are talking about, and are blowing smoke up your ass.

You will be able to return the X-Box to your local Costco, with EVERYTHING, within reason. Try taking in back 5-6 years later may not work, but six months is BS!

[kevlar51]

I've got about four within about 20-30 minutes too. The one I bought it at is not the usual one I go to.

Then there's no harm in calling each and asking what their return period is on 360s.
You don't have to return it to the one you bought it.

[Wet Ninja]

I picked up a 360 at Costco today. Here's the stats:

Pro Holiday Bundle
Team CSON
Lot: 732

The games were in a case outside of the box (but inside the plastic shell).

They had one Team FDOU system, but it was lot 731 (or possibly 730). I looked through as many systems as I could, but they all seemed to be lot 730, 731 or 732, so they're a bit older.

I was planning on waiting for the Falcons, but I figured with Costco's return policy, I could buy it now and exchange it for a Falcon if anything happens.

[saqqy]

I picked up a 360 at Costco today. Here's the stats:

Pro Holiday Bundle
Team CSOM
Lot: 732


I exchanged my RROD one and got a 732 CSON. It's got all signs of being a the new hardware: benq drive, 2 coils instead of 3, and the newer heatsink.

[Wet Ninja]

I exchanged my RROD one and got a 732 CSON. It's got all signs of being a the new hardware: benq drive, 2 coils instead of 3, and the newer heatsink.

I've been wanting to sit down and examine it to see what it has (which DVD drive, which heatsink, etc.), but I can't stop playing it long enough to have a look at it. I'll try to look it over this weekend and post what I find.

[jgressley]

It's not a computer. My holiday bundle, which was purchased on 12/17/06 was returned in late August without any issue.

I got my 360 at Costco on release day, Nov 2005. My system red ringed on Tuesday (23 months later) and since I had used my debit card they handed me cash for the full original amount of my purchase.

I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the Elite Holiday Bundle, and I will still have money left over from this transaction. Costco rocks!

(Unfortunately, I decided not to buy the Pro Bundle there because I knew the consoles were of the older variety.)

[shrike4242]

I got my 360 at Costco on release day, Nov 2005. My system red ringed on Tuesday (23 months later) and since I had used my debit card they handed me cash for the full original amount of my purchase.

I'm eagerly awaiting the release of the Elite Holiday Bundle, and I will still have money left over from this transaction. Costco rocks!

(Unfortunately, I decided not to buy the Pro Bundle there because I knew the consoles were of the older variety.)I did the same thing, though as mine was bought with a cash card (from a previous return), they were supposed to give me a cash card to go with the return. As they didn't have their cash card system working, they gave me the cash back on it. I didn't want to pick up one from Costco, as they looked like the much older versions of the systems and I didn't want to take a chance. I ended up picking up a 0735 CSON unit from Target instead. Much quieter and works like a champ.

[doubledown]

My CostCo had the new bundles and Halo bundles also in stock as of yesterday.

[eau]

Pro Holiday Bundle
Team CSON
Lot: 732
Could someone explain why stats like this is so important? I don't own a 360 and knowing this may help in the future when I decide to buy one. Thanks.

[orimental]

A member of the Xbox forums reported that they got a Falcon MOBO, which has the smaller 65nm CPU, which reportedly reduces heat, decreasing the chance of RRoD. His Xbox manufacturing info is being used as a sort of guide as to whether or not the console you have is a Falcon.

So look for Team FDOU, Lot 734 or later, and manu date 08/24/07 or later. These aren't guaranteed though, as later lots and dates have been found to have the older chip in it. Also, until the official "Go Pro" and "Go Big" sets are out there, you have to be careful and look at the real stats as many stores have been given "kits" to convert all of their existing stock into the holiday bundles. You're going to have to lift up the cardboard flap on top of the box and peek inside to see the info on the console itself.

[Relentless355]

Does anyone know when the "Go Pro" and "Go Big" sets will come out? And also, does Costco have this same bundle with the elite?

I guess it doesn't really matter what chip/heatsink you get if you buy at Costco; if anything goes wrong, just take it back and get a new one.

[DomLando]

Does anyone know when the "Go Pro" and "Go Big" sets will come out? And also, does Costco have this same bundle with the elite?

I guess it doesn't really matter what chip/heatsink you get if you buy at Costco; if anything goes wrong, just take it back and get a new one.
Right now it looks like most places are adding the game to there stock of 360s. So you might not be able to find the newer bundles until they sell out of there current stock.

[A Happy Panda]

Hmm...my 360 just RRODed on me. Do I really want to wait until Thanksgiving, or even after, to get it back? Or do I just buy this bundle?

[Wet Ninja]

Does anyone know when the "Go Pro" and "Go Big" sets will come out? And also, does Costco have this same bundle with the elite?

When I bought mine at Costco, I didn't see any Elites or Cores. There was a big stack of Premiums, and a few Halo 3 Edition 360s.

[elmyra]

When I bought mine at Costco, I didn't see any Elites or Cores. There was a big stack of Premiums, and a few Halo 3 Edition 360s.

I'm pretty sure that Costco never sold the Core. I wonder if they'll sell the Arcade version?

[shrike4242]

I'm pretty sure that Costco never sold the Core. I wonder if they'll sell the Arcade version?Costco has never sold the Core system. In my Costco, it's only been the Pro/Premium and the Halo 3 system. Some Costco's have sold the Elite in-store.

[Monsta Mack]

Hmm...my 360 just RRODed on me. Do I really want to wait until Thanksgiving, or even after, to get it back? Or do I just buy this bundle?

Send 360 back, buy core at wal-mart and use it in mean time. return core at walmart when 360 comes back.

[A Happy Panda]

Send 360 back, buy core at wal-mart and use it in mean time. return core at walmart when 360 comes back.

? Is Wal-Mart's return policy that lax?

[darkclawsofchaos]

? Is Wal-Mart's return policy that lax?

I don't think so, better buy the costco one anyway, true it cost a lot, but you are guaranteed that you can return it anytime, just don't lose anything.

[A Happy Panda]

I don't think so, better buy the costco one anyway, true it cost a lot, but you are guaranteed that you can return it anytime, just don't lose anything.

So did we determine whether or not Costco considers 360s as computers? Sorry for the Q's, I just don't want to be 360-less come Thanksgiving.

[pogipinoy27]

I went to costco today and the premium bundles they were selling sold for $450 :(

[alpha_M]

you can get in at newegg.com for 349.99. shpping is like 13 bucks. and it has hdmi with the 2 games

[OGHowie]

? Is Wal-Mart's return policy that lax?

Most retail stores will let you return an opened system within 30 days with no restocking fee even if it isn't broken.

[kenbo506]

So did we determine whether or not Costco considers 360s as computers? Sorry for the Q's, I just don't want to be 360-less come Thanksgiving.
Some are sure it's not, but Costco employees will tell you otherwise. So take it for what you will.

I'd say just buy it at Costco and if something happens, bring it back and see what happens. If they don't take it then it won't be any different than buying it at Walmart or any other retail store. Plus you will have the extra controller which you will probably buy anyway. So dollar-wise, you'd end up spending about the same when all is said and done.

[kenbo506]

I went to costco today and the premium bundles they were selling sold for $450 :(
What was included in the bundle? My Costco bundle had an extra controller and a play and charge kit for $400. I hope there was some extra stuff in there.

[pogipinoy27]

What was included in the bundle? My Costco bundle had an extra controller and a play and charge kit for $400. I hope there was some extra stuff in there.

Yeah same contents (Holiday Pro 360, extra controller and play and charge) cept it said $450.

Maybe it was the Halo 3 one but it was disappointing for me nonetheless.

[MarkMan]

Sorry I didn't take the time to filter through the thread... do the current costco bundles with Forza/MUA have HDMI ports?

Just wondering.

I got RROD'd :(

[orimental]

They should have them, but I don't know for sure. I was just at the East H St. one and could only find DS and PSP bundles.

[wraith]

Bought my 360 at Costco this weekend. Premium, didn't check lot #, has HDMI+2 games+extra controller+play and charge for $399.99.

As a lot of people have mentioned this obviously isn't the best deal you're going to see on a 360 this holiday season but the warranty is just too good to pass up.