X-BOX CONFIRMED
March 9, 2000

Microsoft today announced (as expected) that Bill Gates will unveil X-Box in his address at the Game Developer's Conference in San Jose tomorrow. The company expects to release the system in Fall 2001, which is more than likely the primary reason for Nintendo's unexpected first half release of Project Dolphin (unexpected because most systems hit North America in the third quarter).

Mr. Gates issued a statement that said the system will have: a 600 Mhz processor (100 faster than previously announced, and the decision now is whether to go with Intel or AMD), a graphics processor made by Nvidia (whose stock has been going up significantly on the news), DVD's (it almost has to), broadband internet capability (which was a given), and an 8GB hard drive (slightly larger than previously thought).

Indicating more of a 3DO hardware approach, Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer said, "We're not getting into the hardware business, but we do want to provide a great software gaming experience for people.''

Robert Bach of Microsoft said, "People won't be upgrading their hardware or installing software or anything like that. They'll just pop in the disc and go.''

Moreover, Tom Dusenberry of Hasbro said, "It's definitely an advantage to take the great content that already exists and easily move it to X-Box.''

Take from these two statements what you will. It does bring into question the likelihood of full PC game compatibility as has been suggested, though. However, it also suggests PC ports will be very easy if that route is not taken.

During Gates' address at the GDC, we're sure to find out more X-Box information. More on this as it develops.