Pioneering Xbox executive Peter Moore reflects on the cultural impact and journey of the Xbox 360 during its launch and development. He emphasizes the console's unique marketing strategy, which focused on community involvement rather than traditional advertising. Moore reveals how the console war against PlayStation was stoked, the importance of securing major titles like Grand Theft Auto for Xbox, and the groundbreaking marketing approach that set the tone for future gaming launches. The article highlights beloved titles from the Xbox 360 era, underscoring the importance of diverse gaming experiences beyond just first-person shooters.

What made the Xbox 360 launch memorable?

The Xbox 360 launch was memorable due to its grassroots approach, which featured a unique event called Zero Hour where gamers could experience the console in person. This interactive strategy, coupled with emotional and inventive marketing campaigns like the memorable Gears of War commercial, contributed greatly to its cultural phenomenon status.

The Xbox 360, released in November 2005, revolutionized console gaming with its emphasis on online connectivity through Xbox Live. The platform not only brought iconic titles like Gears of War and Halo to the forefront but also served as a precursor to many contemporary gaming practices, highlighting the shift from simply selling hardware to creating community-focused entertainment experiences.