"The Xbox 360 is here with plenty of gaming with features that no gamer should pass up. After a week of basking in the 360’s goodness, here are five things that are sure to hook owners for a long time.

5. Launch Games

The first batch of games out of the gates are packing some serious fun. Whether it’s sports, first-person shooters, or racing games, the Xbox 360 is ready to rumble. Most notable, and unfortunately under-hyped, is Namco’s Ridge Racer 6. Sure it’s more of the same, but why mess with perfection.

4. Downloadable Demos

It’s a wonder that it has taken this long for a console to have an effective delivery method for game demos. With Xbox Live on the 360, consumers can try before they buy. Next-gen games like Need for Speed Most Wanted, NBA Live 06, and Kameo were available on launch day, with additional games on the way. Add in classic arcade games, plenty of HD homebrew inspired creations available through Xbox Live Arcade, and there’s plenty of action to keep the wireless controller all warmed up.

3. Xbox Live

Xbox Live matches are as intense as ever. The 360’s slick new interface makes communicating and matchmaking via Xbox Live even more intuitive. There’s nothing quite like signing in, checking what your buddies are playing, and laying down the smack-talk before whupping some ass in an online match. Just make sure you can write a check your mouth can cash." [more]