HDTV Reviews

According to Spiegel Online the much rumored on again off again HD-DVD add-on for the Xbox 360 has been confirmed. In a recent Q&A new window the German publication spoke with Chris Lewis, Microsoft’s European Xbox 360 manager.

Mr. Lewis stated the add-on will be debuted at this year’s up-coming E3 game conference.

Spiegel Online: Is the HD-DVD-drive for the Xbox 360 still in the pipeline?

Lewis: Absolutely, yes. We’ll say a little bit more about it at E3. It will give people access to HD DVD.

Spiegel Online: But the 360 doesn’t have an HDMI-Interface — so you won’t actually be able to watch any HD DVD Movies on it because the obligatory copy protection mechanisms are missing.

Lewis: All I can say to you is — there are interesting developments in the pipeline. We will make sure that the HD-DVD-peripheral device will meet all the requirements for consumers to enjoy high-definition DVD playback.

Spiegel Online: Meaning, you will be able to watch Hollywood movies in HD through your Xbox?

Lewis: Yes.

Spiegel Online: So the drive will have its own interface?

Lewis: You will hear a lot more about that question at E3

While I still assert that game platforms won’t sway the format war either way, this does level the playing field somewhat. But in my opinion this still boils down to titles and player cost.

I think we’re still months away from getting a good indication of how hard each side is willing to fight for your entertainment dollars. Hey listen, I know it’s been HD-DVD non-stop here for awhile, but you have to admit pre-recorded HDTV content is pretty exciting stuff.