Guide Note:

On November 15, 2001, Microsoft entered the video game console market with the Xbox. The Xbox is the precursor to the Xbox 360 game system.

Fast facts:

1. Maker: Microsoft
2. Generation: 6th
3. Debut: November 15, 2001
4. May 2006: 24 million units reportedly sold
5. Online: Xbox Live
6. Top-seller: Halo 2
7. Connectivity: USB
8. Controller input: Max. 4
9. 1st console to incorporate a hard disk drive
10. Customer Support: 1-800-4MY-XBOX

In 1998, Microsoft tried to jump into the ever-growing video game industry by collaborating with Sega to develop the Dreamcast. Despite being hailed as a game system ahead of its time, it failed to gain any traction against the dominance of PlayStation, and so it was discontinued in 2001. By that time, Microsoft had decided to develop its own console system, and created the Xbox. It was the first console to include a hard drive, which eliminated the need for memory cards. It also allowed for networking connectivity through Xbox Live.