Originally Posted by Richard Kain

While Microsoft's pricing scheme for the XBox line seems like a good idea initially, they are walking on rotten ice. Ever since Playstation Plus started gaining traction, a lot of people have begun questioning the need for a subscription fee for XBox Live. Back when XBox Live was the end-all-be-all of console online gaming, it made considerably more sense to pay a premium for Microsoft's on-line service. But now on-line support and on-line play are considered default features, even for Nintendo's platforms. The XBox is now the only home console that you can't play on-line games on out of the box.

This value disparity is beginning to work against Microsoft. It's time for them to start re-evaluating XBox Live's subscription system.

We also need to hear more about the upcoming systems. At the moment they are both just big question marks. An accurate appraisal of the future of the console market requires more information.