TheMan661's Xcast Official Blog

The Official Xcast Blog has been moved

2007-02-13T20:58:00.000-05:00

If you are viewing this page, you are viewing the old Xcast blog. I moved the blog to WordPress instead of blogger because of a major difference in features. So please visit http://theman661.wordpress.com/ or www.theman661.com for the new blog. Thanks for the idea Tee!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Look what I'm doing on Xbox 360 Fanboy

2007-02-12T22:39:00.000-05:00

Yep, yours truly was featured in a post over at Xbox 360 Fanboy. The post was made by David Dreger aka Knuckles Dawson who is a friend of mine and I interviewed him on the Xcast as well. He posted about a new program for Mac users called Mac Live that allowed people to check their friends list and see what their friends are doing right from their desktop. For more details, you can check out the original post here: http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2007/02/12/mac-os-10-4-gets-answer-to-windows-live-friends-list/ I think that the best part of the post was my gamertag being that I don't have a Mac haha.

(Thanks Dave)

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xbox Rewards program site is now active!

2007-02-12T19:30:00.000-05:00

Yeah I just posted the news about the Xbox360Achievement.org's event regarding the 1,000 people online achievement on NBA Live 07 and said the site was not active. The site is now active and you can sign up for the rewards program. The link is http://www.xbox.com/rewards.

Edit 2/13/07-The rewards site is currently down because of some behind the scenes issues and should be up in about 24 hours or so.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xbox360Achievements.org is helping you earn an achievement!

2007-02-12T19:24:00.000-05:00

Xbox360Achievements.org is helping you earn the 1,000 people online achievement if you missed your first chance. So if your looking to start increasing your gamerscore for the Achievement Rewards program, this is a good way to start. By the way the sign ups for the Achievement Rewards program are not open yet, I will let you know when the site is active.

(Via Justin)

-Frank (Gamertag:TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #20

2007-02-11T21:26:00.001-05:00

I have hit the twenties with Xcast Episode #20. This episode I talked about how Guitar Hero may be coming to the Wii, the achievement rewards program, the Halo 3 beta code being embedded in the Crackdown disc and how the Airport Extreme router is having issues with Xbox Live. Congratulations Dan for making your second post and for hitting 200 Gamerscore haha. Also I threw in whatever else I could find into this episode. I am in the process of scheduling a few interviews so stay tuned. Want to start a discussion? My email address is frank@theman661.com.

Download Xcast Episode #20 here!

Links to things mentioned in the show:
http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/02/06/540799.aspx
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2007/02/10/xbox-live-activity-for-week-of-2-5.aspx
http://origin.arstechnica.com/journals/apple.ars/2007/2/9/6978
http://planetxbox360.com/index.php/articledetails/show/1350
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6165647.html
http://www.xbox.com/rewards

Thanks for Listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Im back!

2007-02-11T12:44:00.000-05:00

Wow it looks like I missed alot of things going on around the industry this weekend. This weekend I went on a little vacation once again and I have returned. Which means that Xcast Episode #20 will be recorded tonight. I am also happy to see that Dan has posted something finally (I hope to see alot more of those) and he has hit 200 Gamerscore. Alright I'm just letting you know that I am back up and running and Xcast Episode #20 will be out soon.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xbox 360 and Windows Vista?

2007-02-09T17:31:00.000-05:00

Hey gamers, this is Dan here aka adrenaline96 on Xbox Live. Sorry I haven't posted anything yet (very lazy nowadays). But i will try to continue to make more post when new "news" about the 360 is released.For now here's something I am very excited about!
I'm sure that most of you heard about the newly released Windows Vista, but how will it help us gamers?. Well here's the answer: Windows Vista is sure to take LIVE gaming to the max! With windows vista your gamertag will work on both your PC games and Xbox 360. You will have mainly all the the same features of 360 on your PC! Great game such as Halo 2 and Shadowrun will be among the 1st offered on Windows Vista. High performance games will also work on W.V. and you will be able to plug a 360 controller into your PC to play them!! For you parents out there, Vista will offer easy to use parental controls. Create the ultimate music experience in your home using Windows Media Center in Windows Vista with your Xbox 360. The Xbox 360 has Media Center Extender technology built into it that enables you to access your music library through your home network, using the Media Center menu system. Using your Xbox 360 as a Media Center Extender is the same as you would get on your PC. You will also be able to access your music collection from anywhere in your house that is connected to your network using the Windows 11 sharing feature. Now more than ever is the time to connect your Xbox 360 to your home network and get xbox LIVE!! For more information please visit this site
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/news/2007/0129-xbox360andwindowsvista.htm. For help on connected your 360 to your home network wireless( which you should!) go to
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/hardware/x/xbox360wirelessnetadapter/default.htm

-Dan (aka adreanaline96 on xbox live)

(feel free to send messages and friends request to me. Thanks!)

Achievement rewards program details

2007-02-07T22:38:00.000-05:00

Deaconblade 360 has posted some more details about the Achievement "Rewards" Program. This cleared up most of the questions that I had about the program, and I hope reading this will help you to understand what you have to do to be involved in this program. One thing he said was that prizes are LIMITED so you have to sign up for the program on February 12th at www.xbox.com/rewards. FIRST COME FIRST SERVE!

http://www.unscripted360.com/2007/02/07/more-achievement-rewards-program-details/

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Root Beer Tapper has been released on the Xbox Live Arcade

2007-02-07T19:50:00.000-05:00

Root Beer Tapper has been released on the Xbox Live Marketplace. It will set you back 400 points. This is one of the classics that have been announced to be released on the Xbox Live Arcade. Some have been waiting for this, some are not so wild about it. Play it and let me know what you think. I don't think anything has been changed from the original version of the game.

Rewards for Achievements program has been announced!

2007-02-06T19:05:00.000-05:00

Rewards for achievements has now officially been announced. The program is going to start off in the US only and I am not sure if it is going to spread. Old Spice is the first sponsor for the program. To register for the program, you have to visit www.xbox.com/rewards on February 12th to sign up. Here is a list of the rewards that will be given for the launch of the program:

Reward Package Qualifications

Level 1 (Gamers with a gamerscore between 0-4,999 at time of entry): Game Picture, Dashboard theme, Contra for Xbox LIVE Arcade.

Level 2 (5,000-9,999 annual gamerscore): Level 1 Package, 100 Microsoft Points and a contest T-shirt

Level 3 (10,000+ annual gamerscore): Level 1 Package, 200 Microsoft Points, contest T-shirt and Fusion Frenzy 2

Hmm now I am a little confused, do I get a reward right when the program launches? Or does this program start to track my annual gamerscore over the year and see how many points I rack up? I hope that we will see as time goes on. It says at time of entry so I might be getting some rewards along with everyone that has 0-4,999 Gamerscore. Sounds interesting. Again be sure to register for the program on February 12th at www.xbox.com/rewards.

Official post over at the Gamerscore Blog: http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/02/06/540799.aspx

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #19 Recorded on February 5th 2007-Debut of the Active Reload Song

2007-02-05T21:43:00.000-05:00

Xcast Episode #19 Recorded on February 5th 2007

Yep I finally recorded the long awaited Episode #19. This Episode I debuted the Active Reload Song created by a few listeners of the Xcast: Arizona Jedi, Samuel Whyte, Honoo Kenja 08, and grandslam7jb. Thanks for contributing and I'm sorry if you sent me clips that I did not include. Maybe there will be an Active Reload Song 2nd Edition? I read off a few Itunes Reviews from Arizona Jedi and Will aka WiredToast. I went over some guidelines that were set for achievements and talked about how achievements might give us some awards. I talked about my experience on DeaconBlade 360's debut of Unscripted Nights. Go check out the Xbox 360 Fanboy Podcast or Fancast as they like to call it and the KOXM Episode #50.

Please post your reviews for the Xcast on the Itunes Music Store. (Link will open Itunes)

Download Episode #19 here!

Thanks For Listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Links to things mentioned in the show:
http://www.oxmpodcast.com/?p=65
http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2007/02/05/reminder-register-for-halo-3-beta-phase-ii.aspx
http://www.unscripted360.com/2007/02/05/unscripted-nights-debut-a-success/
http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/02/01/540575.aspx
http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/02/05/540745.aspx

Xcast Episode #19 Coming Soon!

2007-02-05T16:33:00.000-05:00

Yes Xcast Episode #19 is on its way. I plan to record it tonight February 5th 2007 and send it out tonight so check for that. I guess I can blame the Super Bowl for the delay....

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Debut of DeaconBlade 360's Unscripted Nights!

2007-02-02T23:28:00.000-05:00

I just participated in the first of DeaconBlade 360's Unscripted Nights. If you guys don't know what they are, it is when Deacon plays with his listeners and various other members of the community. Man this was a lot of fun. For the first Unscripted Night, we played a little title that is known as Gears Of War. I got to play three matches and then Deacon had to send invites out for the next cycle of players. My team played very well in all three matches with me sealing the win with a head shot in the last round of the final match . I pretty much surprised everybody because I wasn't doing so well in the beginning of the final match. If you guys are looking for a good time on Xbox Live you have to check out DeaconBlade's Unscripted Nights.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

New Video Marketplace content for the week of 1/29/07

2007-02-01T17:43:00.000-05:00

The following content will be coming out on Video Marketplace sometime this week:

TV

TNA: Impact - Season 1 and 4 episodes from the season 2
Pros v. Joes - Season 2, episode 1 for FREE now through Monday February 5 at 11:59PM PST

The Sarah Silverman Program - Series premiere FREE starting Friday 2/2 through Monday, 2/5 at 11:59PM PST

ER - Season 1 and 2

Movies

Hunt for Red October - Paramount (SD)

Music

New Epic Artist of the Month on - Good Charlotte

"Keep Your Hands Off My Girl" music video (TV-MA rated)

"Keep Your Hands Off My Girl" behind the scenes

Of course everything here is available in the United States only.

(This list is courtesy of Major Nelson:
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2007/02/01/video-marketplace-releases-for-week-of-1-29-07.aspx)

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

G.R.A.W 2 Demo is now on Marketplace

2007-01-31T18:41:00.000-05:00

The Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 demo has now been posted on Marketplace. Of course the demo is free, but is only available for Xbox Live Gold Members. It is also available in all the regions that Xbox Live covers. The size of the file is 625 MB. This one looks pretty interesting, I haven't downloaded it yet but I plan to sometime tonight or tomorrow, this is when I wish we had a bigger hard drive!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

New Xbox Live Arcade Titles Coming!

2007-01-30T15:46:00.000-05:00

New Xbox Live Arcade Titles are headed our way. A list released by the guys over at Gamerscore Blog tells us of some famous titles headed to the Xbox Live Arcade beginning in February. These titles include Alien Hominid HD, Paperboy, Root Beer Tapper, Worms and more. Though no exact date was clarified as to when these titles will be released, these are some very interesting titles that I cannot wait to see in the Arcade.

Link to the Gamerscore Blog press release:
http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/01/30/540428.aspx

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

I need more achievements!? Ok your right...

2007-01-30T12:58:00.000-05:00

Haha look at this one sent to me by Corran125 and his partner in crime Arizona Jedi. I guess I knew this one was coming after I saw there was an app where you can make your own achievement label. Look at this:

Alright I guess I do need more achievements. Now achievements=rewards (see post below) which means Im going to attempt to get more achievements.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

News Just In Courtesy of DeaconBlade....Rewards for Achievements?

2007-01-29T19:03:00.000-05:00

That's right you read the post correctly, rewards for achievements! Now when you hear my favorite noise, you may actually win something. As far as I know Microsoft/Xbox is teaming up with some sponsors and starting a program in which you will actually get rewards for achievements. This will be a free program and you just have to play games and earn achievements. Wow this is going to be interesting for Knuckles Dawson now because this is just an added bonus since he gets at least one achievement per day. Now I guess this will be a little more motivation for me to grab an achievement besides the satisfaction of hearing my favorite noise and racking up some points that really didn't do anything up until I heard this. This program is going to launch next month sometime.

Courtesy of DeaconBlade 360:
http://www.unscripted360.com/2007/01/29/rewards-for-achievements/#comment-14461

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #18 Recorded on January 26th 2007 with DeaconBlade 360

2007-01-27T10:14:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Xcast Episode #18

Wow this was a big show, co hosting the show this week was:

-Founder of the original 7 Xbox 360 Laws.

-Creator of the world famous Unscripted360.com and Unscripted360 the podcast

-MVP on the Xbox.com forums.

-Winner of the Xbox Community Member of the year over at the 2006 Gamertag Radio Community Awards.

-Xbox Live Ambassador who is always willing to answer any one's questions about the service or the console in general.

DEACONBLADE 360!

We talked about all of the news...that we could find going around the industry. I also let everyone know what kind of podcasting equipment I use and what podcasts I subscribe to. I asked Deacon what games he is looking forward to in the new year, what he thought about certain things going around the industry, questions about his show and whatever else I threw in last minute because of the lack of regular news this month. A good time was had by all and I'm looking forward to have Deacon back on the show again soon. I also played a piece of listener mail I received from Corran 125.

Do you want to bring up something for me to discuss on the show? Do you have an idea how I can improve the show? If so then email me your ideas, my email is frank@theman661.com, or you can send me voice messages to my Xbox Live Account.

Download Episode #18 here!

Thanks for listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Links For Things Mentioned In The Show:
http://www.unscripted360.com
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2007/01/25/psp-connect-using-pgr3-screenshot.aspx
http://theman661sxcast.blogspot.com/2007/01/this-one-i-found-surprising.html
http://www.unscripted360.com/2007/01/25/crackdown-demo-impressions/
http://www.unscripted360.com/xbox-360-laws/
http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/puzzle/guitarhero2/index.html?q=Guitar%20Hero%202
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lost_Planet
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bioshock
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Army_of_Two
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viva_Pinata
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crackdown
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_Effect
http://live.xbox.com/en-US/profile/profile.aspx?pp=0&GamerTag=Corran125
http://live.xbox.com/en-US/profile/profile.aspx?pp=0&GamerTag=adrenaline96
http://live.xbox.com/en-US/profile/profile.aspx?pp=0&GamerTag=DeaconBlade+360

This one, I found surprising...

2007-01-25T19:08:00.000-05:00

Looks like the competition is desperate, or at least Sony is when trying to promote Gran Turismo HD. They used a screenshot from the Xbox 360 Hit title Project Gotham Racing 3 or also known as PGR 3. You can see a screenshot of Sony's promotion here (courtesy of Larry Hryb aka Major Nelson) and here is the original screenshot (pictured above) from PGR 3. They took a screen from PGR 3 from the game's designer Bizarre Creations. Now thats just desperate, or at least I think so. This is a definite topic for me and Deaconblade 360 to discuss on Episode #18.

PS: Is anyone else having problems finding their friends games on the XBL section of the Crackdown demo? Ill talk about this more on Episode #18.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #17 Recorded on January 22nd 2007

2007-01-22T21:53:00.000-05:00

Xcast Episode #17

I talked a little about the Colts game...that is going to be an interesting super bowl, cant wait for that one. I also went over news like the COD 3 map pack release gone bad, I announced a new contributor to my blog Dan aka adrenaline96 and I went over anything else I could find going around the industry. Want to hear anything new on the show, want to start a discussion send me a message on my Xbox Live Account which is of course TheMan661 or send an email to frank@theman661.com. Stay tuned next week for Xcast Episode #18 with special guest host Deaconblade 360 from the Unscripted 360 podcast.

Download Episode #17 here!

Thanks for listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Links Mentioned in the Show:
http://www.unscripted360.com
http://forums.crackdownoncrime.com/forums/thread/3834.aspx
http://forums.xbox.com/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=9720092
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2007/01/18/battlestations-midway-multiplayer-demo.aspx
http://ozymandias.com/archive/2007/01/16/Your-Thoughts-on-the-Future-of-Live_3F00_.aspx
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/news/2007/0119-gearsofwarjuggernautcontinues.htm?WText.camp=TS1&WText.campSrc=Home
http://theman661sxcast.blogspot.com/2007/01/hello-gamers.html
http://theman661sxcast.blogspot.com/2007/01/welcome-dan.html
http://live.xbox.com/en-US/profile/profile.aspx?pp=0&GamerTag=adrenaline96
http://live.xbox.com/en-US/profile/profile.aspx?pp=0&GamerTag=DeaconBlade+360

Welcome Dan!

2007-01-21T21:08:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, as you may have noticed we have a new contributor to the blog (read post below). I invited Dan to come help me out on the site a few weeks ago. He has been gaming on the 360 for almost a year now but has just recently registered for Xbox Live so please excuse his gamerscore (even though mine isn't that great either....). I invited Dan to help me out after I realized that I needed a little help running both the podcast and the website and writing all the posts and everything. So send him some friend requests and game invites and welcome him into the Xbox Live Community. Also I'm hoping to record Episode #17 tomorrow night January 22nd 2007, I will most likely get to it, but if I don't I have a special guest coming on next show who I think you will all enjoy. Thanks to everybody who has contributed to the "Active Reload" song, I'm in the process of looking for a beat so if you know anyone that is musically talented, let me know.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Hello Gamers

2007-01-21T20:51:00.000-05:00

Hello everybody, this is Dan here. (Gamertag: adrenaline96). Frank has invited me to help him out around the blog and the podcast. So now you are going to be getting posts from both Frank aka TheMan661 and myself. I am good friends with Frank and have been for a long time now. I started gaming on the Nintendo NES, but today I am a regular gamer on the next gen Xbox 360, just like Frank. Me and Frank are going to continue to keep you up to date with all the news going around the gaming industry!

-Dan ( Gamertag: adrenaline96 )

Crackdown Demo Date has been announced!

2007-01-19T21:44:00.000-05:00

Finally we all have been waiting for this (or at least everyone I talked to is). The Crackdown Demo that was supposed to be released this past week was delayed and now we have an official date. The demo is coming out on Tuesday, January 23rd 2007 at 2:00 AM PT (Check your time zone here). Wow I have been waiting for this, I cannot wait to check out the co-op on this demo! Here is the official forum post over at the Crackdown forums.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

The Xcast is now on digg!

2007-01-19T12:32:00.000-05:00

Come on over and give the Xcast a digg! I submitted the Xcast to digg.com's new Podcast channel a few days ago and it just popped up today after being reviewed. So if you don't have one already, you need a digg.com user name to access the digg podcast channel. So if you dig the Xcast jump over here and submit a digg for the Xcast. Also I picked up Lost Planet the other day and I'm looking forward to play some Xbox Live matches, so just send me an invite and I will try and join.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #16

2007-01-16T17:51:00.000-05:00

Xcast Episode #16

The NPD group has released the official selling stats for December and Xbox 360 outsold both the PS3 and Wii combined.The Gears Of War Update is here and has caused a sort of "civil war" over on the Epic forums. I found the new maps good and bad. I talked about a few posts over at some of my favorite websites www.gamespot.com, www.knucklesdawson.com, http://www.majornelson.com/ and more. I addressed the issue of Microsoft buying Capcom. I had a little fun with the achievement unlocked sound while talking about the newly released achievements from the Xbox 360 version of Guitar Hero 2 and Crackdown. As always I also threw in other things that I wanted to talk about.

Download Xcast Episode #16 here!

Links to things mentioned in the show:

http://www.gamespot.com/news/show_blog_entry.php?topic_id=25304105&sid=6164175&tag=latestnews;title;0
http://gearsforums.epicgames.com/showthread.php?t=560548
http://knucklesdawson.com/epic/2007/01/of_friends_fans_and_fun_1.html
http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/01/11/540001.aspx

Thanks For Listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Check Out The Bill Gates Keynote Speech from CES

2007-01-08T20:59:00.000-05:00

Bill Gates' Keynote speech at CES is now available. You can stream the video from xbox.com here. This video requires Windows Media Player to work, you can download it here. Or if you want to listen to the MP3 file of the keynote from CES you can get it from MajorNelson.com here. Wow that was a bunch of information to link to, I'm listening to that as I am typing this actually and it is pretty interesting, check it out.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Gears Of War Maps and Update On the Way!

2007-01-08T16:36:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard the news, I just read a post on Major Nelson's blog saying that news about Gears Of War Maps was released by Mark Rein over at the Gears Forums. In his post, Mark talks about an update that should be pushing its way around tomorrow and the Multiplayer Maps releasing on Wednesday, January 10th 2006. These maps are going to be free! Wow this is one of the first if not the first Xbox 360 title to offer maps for free! Thank you Epic!

Here is the link to Mark's Post: http://gearsforums.epicgames.com/showthread.php?t=560548

These Screenshots ^ are from a level called Old Bones

These screenshots ^ are from a map called Raven Down

Wow I cant wait for these maps! Once again Thanks Epic!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #15

2007-01-07T16:10:00.000-05:00

Xcast Episode #15

I am back with the first Xcast Episode of 2007! In this episode I discussed:

-Xbox 360 has conquered the holiday competition, we have won the war this holiday season at least

-Germany cracks down on the game Crackdown

-I got another way for you to enter the Halo 3 Beta

-Time magazine calls Sony's PS3 one of 2006's Biggests Busts

-A new rumor involving a new Xbox 360 with HDMI and a bigger hard drive.

-I am looking for blog authors, so if you are interested send me an email

Download Episode 15 here!

Email: frank@theman661.com

Things Mentioned In The Show:

http://www.cesweb.org/default.asp
http://gamerscoreblog.com/team/archive/2007/01/03/539753.aspx
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163793.html?tag=latestnews;title;0
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163775.html?tag=latestnews;title;0
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163441.html
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1570831,00.html

Thanks for listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

The 360 tops holiday sales charts....not surprising to me!

2007-01-02T21:22:00.000-05:00

The Xbox 360 has beat the competition in more ways than one, one way is with the great online service of Xbox Live and the other is by selling more consoles than the competition. The Xbox 360 sold about 2 million units, while Nintendo's Wii came pretty close with about 1.8 million and Sony's PS3 sold about 750,000 units. I can think of a few reasons why the stats came out like this. First of all is the awesome community that makes up what we know as Xbox Live from the podcasters to the players everyone makes up this great community. Second is probably Nintendo mastering motion sensing capability with the Wii. Third Sony is sort of how should I say lacking exclusive games and the price point is unbelievably high with a machine that puts out pretty much the same graphics as the 360. I know the reason for the PS3 not selling well has nothing to do with it being available or not, like I said I saw a car in my neighborhood with a PS3 for sale sign on it and the PS3 has been seen in stores like Best Buy and Gamespot throughout the USA so you guys do the math either there is no demand for the machine or more than half of people in the world went on a vacation this holiday to a very dark cave where they were cut off from society. So there you have it folks the 360 is doing quite well, don't you agree?

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode # 14

2006-12-31T18:20:00.000-05:00

Xcast Episode #14 - Happy New Year

-The people from waterjets.org decided to have a little fun with their malfunctioning Xbox and Xbox 360... I wonder if they knew Microsoft extended the warranty on the Xbox 360?

-Wiimotes are still flying, a lawsuit was filed against Nintendo due to the broken straps.

-XBL matchmaking down 12/27/06

-Are Sony's PS3's still in demand, because I was able to find one for sale

-I went over a few lists that were given out due to the end of the year

-I went over Marketplace content, reviewed Rainbow Six Vegas (9/10), I gave everyone a review of the Xbox 360 Wireless Headset as well and whatever else I decided to throw in last minute

Download Episode #14 here!

Please post your reviews on the Itunes Music Store. (Link will open Itunes)

Listener Call In Line:1-206-339-4661 (not toll free)
Email: frank@theman661.com

Links to things mentioned in the show:

http://www.time.com/time/topten/2006/full_list.html
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/12/30/2006-top-xbox-live-games.aspx
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/hardware/x/xbox360wirelessheadset/default.htm
http://www.waterjets.org/
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163421.html
http://www.engadget.com/2006/12/21/xbox-xbox-360-taken-to-console-heaven-by-water-jet-cutter/
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/12/30/2006-top-xbox-live-games.aspx
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/12/27/yup-we-know.aspx
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163586.html?msg_sort=1
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/t/tomclancyrainbowsixvegas/

Xbox Live is back up and running!

2006-12-28T11:50:00.000-05:00

Finally after I played a couple levels of Gears on Insane and fell asleep, I woke up to Xbox Live Matchmaking working again. Thanks Microsoft for fixing the problem rather quickly although I do have to say I just renewed my XBL subscription a day or two ago so I was not thrilled when this happened. Anyway everything is working again, so I will see you all in the Gears lobbies!

Xbox Live Not Working.....Microsoft Knows, But I dont know what to do!

2006-12-27T23:32:00.000-05:00

Yeah yeah I know XBL matchmaking is down, its late here on the East Coast and I was getting pumped to play some Gears with a guest and with my friends over at Planet Xbox 360, but I guess that cant happen. Private Chat and all other XBL features are working except matchmaking. I just got off Private Chat with Nelson from Planet Xbox 360 and they were about to play some Gears with a bunch of listeners, then this happened!! Major Nelson says that they are working on it, so we shall see. What should I do with my life! Just kidding, but this is pretty frustrating when these things happen. I just renewed my XBL subscription for 13 more months. Hopefully Microsoft will get this worked out and all and I can play some Gears. Anyway I'm out for now, I'm definitely talking about this on the show this week.

Xcast Episode #13

2006-12-23T10:53:00.000-05:00

I know I am a little late in delivering this one again, but I am going to try and stay on top of things from now on.

Xcast Episode 13

-I had special guest host Garrett on the show with me, whose gamertag is GJK 2256

-We talked about all the headlines that I have posted on the site, plus the list of the top 25 people of the next generation released by next-gen.biz.

-Talked about the new backwards compatibility list

-We gave you some Gears news, an update on a few patches and informed you on the latest marketplace content.

-Lastly we played the first piece of Xcast listener mail to be recieved from Arizona Jedi.

Download Xcast Episode #13 here.

Please post your reviews on the Itunes Music Store. (Link will open Itunes)

Links Mentioned In The Show:

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163269.html?tag=latestnews;title;2
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6163240.html
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/backwardcompatibilitygameslist.htm
http://msdn.microsoft.com/directx/xna/gse/
http://msdn.microsoft.com/directx/xna/creators/
http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&amp;id=4395&Itemid=2&limit=1&limitstart=6
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061215/ap_on_hi_te/japan_nintendo_recall
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/12/21/crackdown-demo-details.aspx
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/12/16/major-nelson-is-otg.aspx
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/12/18/major-is-back-on-the-grid.aspx
http://splintercell.us.ubi.com/newspost.php?news_id=4278
http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=152171?cid=otc-rss&attr=cvg-general-rss&skip=yes
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/news/2006/1222-xbox360warrantyextended.htm
http://forums.xbox.com/8976537/ShowPost.aspx
http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3156063
http://maps.live.com

Thanks for Listening

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Happy Holidays to you and your family!

Microsoft has extended Xbox 360 warranties for another year!

2006-12-22T14:53:00.000-05:00

Wow this one surprised me. Microsoft has extended the Xbox 360 standard warranty on all new products and for people (like me) that are within their first year of ownership of a 360. I was jumping for joy when I heard this one because I did not buy an extended warranty when I purchased my 360. I still hope it applies to me and it sounds like it should even though I did not purchase the extended warranty.

Splinter Cell Double Agent Auto Update

2006-12-20T19:53:00.000-05:00

Finally Ubisoft has released an update for Splinter Cell DA, here is what it does:

Connection Issues:
Some instances of “the host has ended the session”.
Disconnections in the lobby.
Once the lobby reaches 5 or 6 people, random players drop.
After kicking the 6th player from a team, the leader couldn't invite another player
Group leader hangs in the "joining session" screen if the host quits while he is joining.
Improvement of the server selection so that the server is more reactive.
If a player leaves a session immediately when he arrives and they have some packet loss (he is in a resolving state), the resolving time out is not reset and in the next session he will kick all the players as soon as he arrives !!!!
Only 1 disconnect function to each peer when resolving is timed out.

Lag-related issues:
In-game freezing: treats a limited number of Unreal packets per frame to avoid freezes in some specific conditions.
Increased network thread priority over Sound thread that can reduce lag issues.
Fix the case when a player got flashbanged while lagging as a mercenary; the player can remain permanently flashbanged until the player reboot the game.
Fix FPS loss due to a sound problem.

Others issues :
A new Game Version to avoid LAN matches between master and update versions
The loading video was always the same, now it's changed at random
Fixed a bug on the score calculation of the Max Percent challenge.
Challenge Best score is wrong if the player has just beaten it.
Improved checks to avoid accessing an invalid leaderboard
Allows to write leaderboards of live challenges

Maybe I can actually play on XBL with this update!

Looking for blog authors!

2006-12-20T15:07:00.000-05:00

I am now in the process of looking for people to write and post articles, reviews and all things involving the gaming on my blog. The criteria is as follows:

1. You must have some knowledge of the gaming industry and own a major console.
(Xbox 360,PS3,Wii, etc...)(Since this is a blog mainly about Xbox 360 and Microsoft I will be leaning towards entrees who own an Xbox 360)

2. Have to have a well rounded view on the gaming industry.

3. Lastly it would be great if you had some prior experience posting on a blog or writing for a website. (If not you can still apply, but it would help)

When applying please include: your name, gamertag (if you have one), email address to which I can write back to you and the country that you live in.

Please send all entries to frank@theman661.com.

I will try and respond to all entries within 2 days of receiving the application.

Computer Problems....Just Great!

2006-12-19T13:08:00.000-05:00

Just to let all of you know I am unable to produce Episode #13 on time. I believe I should be able to do it this weekend. My AC Adapter for my Dell Latitude 110L laptop stopped working so I had to order a replacement part in from Dell and on top of that my battery is dead and I cant even access any of my files. Sorry for the delay, I am looking forward to giving you Episode #13.

Edit: I have received my AC charger and my laptop is back up and running.

Play Gears Of War with the Artist of the Month Tenacious D!

2006-12-15T16:04:00.000-05:00

Your Artist of the Month Tenacious D will be playing Gears Of War. To have a chance to play with the band you have to register at this link http://tenaciousd.com/xbox/. Please read all contest rules and regulations to see if you can enter.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Gears Downloadable Content to be Free?

2006-12-15T15:49:00.000-05:00

Wow I was amazed when I heard this one. It is true, the title of this post is for real! This surprised me that Epic may give us FREE downloadable content for one of the hottest titles released this year. I don't even care if its just a theme or gamerpicture its FREE. I guess I'm not used to this. I know EA started giving out some FREE downloadable content but of course I didn't have the game :( So if this starts happening, this may change my view on the marketplace in general.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Challenge Kevin (Gamertag: Waffle05)!

2006-12-10T00:08:00.000-05:00

A good friend of mine Kevin (Gamertag: Waffle05) has asked me to find him a challenge for Halo 2, he says he needs a good challenge because right now he is unbeatable. So send him a challenge and/or friend request. He is playing on a regular Xbox (The Big Black Beast) so you do not have the wrong Gamertag when you see it is an original Xbox Gamertag. Kevin will be coming on the show sometime hopefully Episode 13 and he will be telling us some scores from his last games. He will most likely be a frequent poster on the blog. His AIM Screen Name is New0005.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #12

2006-12-09T23:40:00.000-05:00

Here it is, the long awaited Xcast Episode #12!

This episode I had Special Guest Host Paul on the show, his gamertag is PaulisaPler. We talked about the Halo series and told you how to enlist in the Halo 3 beta. I gave you a review of Superman Returns (just rent it!) and Viva Pinata (pretty cool). We talked news going around the gaming industry as well. I completely forgot during the show but I would like to throw a shout out to APK Jester who is a great sport and he knows how to deal with me on Gears when I am not doing that well and Arizona Jedi who just started listening to the show. More Interviews to come soon! Thanks Paul for coming on the show.

Download Episode #12 here!

Listener Call In Line: 1-206-339-4661 (not toll free)

Email: frank@theman661.com

Thanks for listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Things Mentioned In the Show:
http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3155393
www.halo3.com
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/11/28/xbox-live-security.aspx
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/11/28/arcade-heads-up.aspx
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/11/30/dashboard-update-aka-the-1080p-fix.aspx
http://www.planetxbox360.com
http://www.teemorris.com
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/default.mspx

Xcast Episode #12 Delayed Until Next Week

2006-12-03T22:30:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,

Xcast Episode #12 is going to have to be delayed until later on this week or until next week due to some family matters. I will try and get it done sometime this week, but later on than I expected. I have tons of notes and things to share with you for Episode #12 so get ready for a packed episode.

Thank you for your patience,

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Delay of Xcast Episode #12

2006-12-02T17:00:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone,

Im away from my recording studio this weekend and will not be able to produce Episode 12 this weekend. I will be recording the episode on Monday (12/4/06) and it will hopefully be out Monday or Tuesday.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #11

2006-11-26T14:28:00.000-05:00

Welcome To Xcast Episode 11

-I welcomed Special guest hosts Nelson and Natalie from the Planet Xbox 360 Podcast to the show.

-Gave you a Wii review (havent played PS3 yet)

-Went over some ideas going around the gaming industry

-Announced some new marketplace content

Download Episode 11 here!

Links for Episode 11
http://www.planetxbox360.com
http://www.majornelson.com/archive/2006/11/23/video-marketplace-status.aspx
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6162230.html?q=Gears%20Of%20War

Please post reviews for the show on the Itunes Music Store! (link will open Itunes and take you to the Xcast page)

Listener Call In Line:1-206-339-4661 (not toll free)
Email: frank@theman661.com

Happy Birthday Xbox 360!

2006-11-22T16:00:00.000-05:00

I would like to wish Xbox 360 a Happy 1st Birthday. Please check out the new shows featured on the brand new video marketplace in the Media blade.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Xcast Episode #10

2006-11-19T18:20:00.000-05:00

The Xcast is now entering double digits, thank you for listening. This episode I talked about the PS3 and Wii launches, as well as the wireless steering wheel and HD-DVD Player being released and much more... This episode I also reviewed...

Sorry no interviews this episode but there are more coming don't worry! Send all of your comments about the show to frank@theman661.com.

Download Episode 10 here!

Remember to Post Reviews for the Xcast on the Itunes Music Store! (this link will open Itunes and take you to the Xcast page)

Thanks for listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Links to Items mentioned in the show:

COD 3
Wireless Steering Wheel
HD-DVD Drive
Knuckles Dawson's Podcast
Shoutout to CoolhandM3

Zune Going to out sell Ipod this Holiday season?

2006-11-15T20:52:00.000-05:00

(Courtesy of a Google Image Search)

Alright here is what I think about this whole issue. It depends what people are looking for at what price. The Zune holds video,music, has a built in radio tuner and wi-fi capability*. The price point of the Zune is 250 dollars (not sure for how much storage*) Now an Ipod Video sells for around 350 dollars (I think base storage is a little more storage than Zune, not sure), If you buy music from the Itunes Music Store, it comes in a protected format so it cannot be used for any other device except if you burn it to a disk which gets kind of annoying after the first disk or two. But the Music Store supposedly is one of the biggest if not the biggest online music stores around. So I guess we are going to have to wait and see this holiday season, though a nice thing about Zune is since the dash update it is very compatible with the 360 (wi-fi). So thats my take on it, wait and see.

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

*Visit the Zune website for more information on the Zune and Apple's website for more information on the Ipod.

Happy Birthday to the X that started it all, the original Xbox!

2006-11-13T20:18:00.000-05:00

Wow can you believe it? I sure cant, on November 15th the console that started Microsoft's jump into the console wars, the original Xbox turns 5 years old! Check out what some gamers had to say here. 6 days after this birthday, we have another birthday in the Xbox family, the Xbox 360 turns 1 year old and as we all now HD/Standard Definition Movies for rent and TV Shows are published on marketplace. So keep your eyes open for that!

Xcast Episode 9

2006-11-13T18:32:00.000-05:00

Xcast Episode 9: Happy Official Emergence Day and the first Xcast Interview!

This episode as you can tell from the title was the first Xcast Interview with interview candidate Knuckles Dawson! Also Happy Emergence Day, Check out Marketplace for some new Gears Of War content. As far as news goes, Is Sony running there mouth, along with EA?-two seperate links. Also remember to check out Knuckles Dawson's site. Feel free to email me: frank@theman661.com to let me know what you think. Ill see you around in the Gears lobbies! Download Episode 9 here!

Sorry about the shaky editing job with the beginning intro, I wanted to bring the content to you faster and I tried to launch it on Sunday, but server problems got in the way, so I didnt preview it as much as I normally would have.

Thanks,
Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

Is Gears stealing the spotlight this week?

2006-11-12T18:56:00.000-05:00

Over the past week many great titles have been released. These titles are Gears Of War,Call of Duty 3, Tony Hawk's Project 8 and Viva Pinata.(sorry if I missed any) Of all these titles, Gears is said to have been the most popular. I feel as though the other games released this week arent recieving as much attention as they should be. Gears is a great game, dont get me wrong but please be sure to check out the other titles that also released this past week.

Episode 8

2006-11-08T22:15:00.000-05:00

Welcome To Episode 8 Xbox Live's: TheMan661's Xcast For the week of November 5 2006!

This episode I discussed the "console wars" and where I stand on that, I did a Gears Of War review,mentioned an upcoming interview (you will find out with who when it happens, you will find it very interesting!). I also went over some new halo 3 content that was announced, and much more newsbits. Movies and TV Shows coming in both high and standard definition on marketplace on November 22nd 2006 to celebrate the Xbox 360 Launch Anniversary."Gamer Content"-custom made 360 faceplates and "Gamer Opinion" What do you think about gold members getting content before silver?

P.S.- While I was in gamestop picking up Gears, I saw a Wii display, I do not think it was hooked up though, so if you want you can check into that. I took a picture of it with my phone, but it is not that clear, I will try and post it later on.

Download Episode 8 Here

My email address: frank@theman661.com
Listener Call In Line (not toll free)- 1-206-339-4661

Links mentioned in the show:

http://www.nyko.com/gamefacecommunity/ "Gamer Content" Faceplates made by gamers!
http://www.gamespot.com/news/show_blog_entry.php?topic_id=25091223&sid=6160605 -Halo 3 content announcement
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/marketplace/moviestv.htm -Movies and TV Shows on Marketplace!
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6161190.html?part=rss&tag=gs_news&subj=6161190 -Best Buy cancels some PS3 preorders.

Thanks for listening!

Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

2006-11-08T15:56:00.000-05:00

COD 3 Launch!

Today COD 3 was launched, I know I made a post with Gears Of War that they were launched the same day, but COD 3 was shipped the day Gears launched. Sorry, my mistake.

(new episode coming soon!)

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

2006-11-07T06:38:00.000-05:00

New Games Released Today

Happy Emergence Day-Gears Of War

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

-Post edited: 11/8/06

2006-11-06T17:16:00.000-05:00

Emergence Day Tomorrow! (11/7/06)

Most of you reading this post are going to say, What is Frank talking about?, Emergence Day is the 12th. Yes officially it is the 12th but most dedicated game stores (Gamestop,EB...) will be recieving Gears Of War tomorrow, but If you reserved your copy you Should be able to pick it up tomorrow. I will be bringing you my Gears Of War review tomorrow when I post my next podcast. I reserved and I am picking the game up tomorrow.

Thanks for listening!

-Frank (Gamertag:TheMan661)

2006-11-04T13:57:00.000-05:00

Release Confirmed-Wireless Headset Has Been Released!

Like I was saying in episode 7, I was not sure if the wireless headset was released. Now I have recieved word that it has been released, so pick up one soon, they have already been back-ordered on gamestop!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

2006-11-02T21:39:00.000-05:00

Gamer Opinion Poll #2 Episode 7

Which system do you think is going to come out on top this holiday season (Xbox 360,Wii or PS3) and why?

Please respond in the form of:

Response

First Name and/or Gamertag

2006-11-02T21:36:00.000-05:00

Gamer Opinion Poll #1 Episode 7

Do you think the PS3 is too expensive?

Please respond in the form of:

Response

First Name and/or Gamertag

2006-11-02T15:54:00.000-05:00

Episodes 1-3-Here is the story

Episodes 1-3 will be reposted on Itunes ASAP. I deleted them to make room on my sever.(I use LibSyn) Episodes 1-3- here is the story on these episodes. I had brought up to some gamers that I knew and ran into that I would be starting the show. They all wanted to be in it so I threw them in. So that is the story on episodes 1-3. These episodes are not content that will be featured on other episodes nor were they made with the new equipment in Episode #7 So if things seem a little out of order in these episodes I apologize in advance. For the uniform order of content that will be used from now on I suggest that you check Episode #7 (which can be downloaded here). So I will be trying to get these episodes out ASAP, storage space permitting. I thank you for bringing this up to me and I thank you for your listenership!

P.S- If you would like to be a co host please email me and I will try to get you on the show like the co hosts featured in episodes 1-3!

-Frank (Gamertag:TheMan661)

2006-11-02T06:40:00.000-05:00

TheMan661's Xcast Episode 7: Xcast Show Overhaul

This show the Xcast went through a complete show overhaul! I am now bringing you hi-def and more detailed episodes. I will still give you the Xbox 360 news, reviews,interviews and more... But on top of that I added brand new content to represent YOU the gamer. I added a new segment in which I will share with the world your opinions. The segment is called "Gamer Opinion" I will be having blog based polls on my blog at www.theman661.com and I will relay most of your comments to the world on my podcast. My next new segment is called "Gamer-Created Content" In this segment I will speak about content created by you the gamer and possibly share (audio reviews) on my show. Send all content created by you whether it be drawings, audio or anything to frank@theman661.com. I also mentioned new content and reviewed Cabela's Alaskan Adventures. Also I talked about the world-wide "so called" problem of microtransactions.

Links that I mentioned in the show:

http://developer.saintsrow.com/agecheck.php?page=%2Fnews%2F2006%2F10%2F30%2Fsaints_row_title_update_on_xbox_live- Saints Row Auto Update Information

http://youtube.com/watch?v=e_wR1wDy5I4 -Major Nelson on G4
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/personality/elle/20061030-update.htm -Elle's article on the Fall update features.
http://forum.teamxbox.com/showthread.php?t=413263&page=1&pp=15 -360 song
http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=20569 - Xbox 360 Selling Stats in Australia
www.theman661.com - My website (I put this on if you are viewing the Libsyn blog or .tk)
frank@theman661.com - My new email address

New Listener Call In Line (Not toll free)

Call in number: 1-206-339-4661 (not a toll free number)

2006-10-30T21:24:00.000-05:00

Fall Dash Update Is Almost Here!

The fall dash update is being launched on Tuesday October 31st at 5:00 am here in New York. (This varies from timezone to timezone). You will automatically recieve the update as soon as you login to xbox live. Here is a full list of features for the new dash update. I cannot wait for the dash update even though it is only a few hours away! The new features are going to be awesome. New Podcast is being published soon!

P.S. I was about to record a podcast tonight when I recieved word that the dash update is taking effect tomorrow, so I will wait and podcast about the new features in the dash update.

Thanks

-Frank (Gamertag:TheMan661)

2006-10-27T15:02:00.000-05:00

Gears of War Commercial

Check out the new Gears of War Commercial here.

This content is rated M for mature audiences only!

2006-10-25T19:00:00.000-05:00

Episode 6: For the week of October 22nd 2006

This episode I discussed news as to why xbox live was down for maintenance. I gave some info on the new dash update(dont expect that until the end of the year). Also I went over a PS3 article I found.

As far as game reviews go: Lego Star Wars 2

And

Splinter Cell Double Agent

Download Here

Hope you enjoy! Got an opinion? Email me at frank@theman661.tk

2006-10-25T18:33:00.000-05:00

For My New Listeners-Introduction of TheMan661

Alright now here is a little bit about me. You may just come and listen to my podcast thinking that this is just another Xbox 360/Microsoft Podcast, but let me tell you its not just any old 360 podcast. I myself do not work for any major gaming publisher or Microsoft. So when I say I am giving you the gamer's perspective on things I Mean IT!. I give you all the regular news you could hear anywhere else but I also try and put my spin on things and I try to be the voice of you the regular gamer. I will give you what I think as a regular gamer myself. I will also throw in reviews, news, interviews, leaderboards and more.... So if you would like to voice your opinion about something to do with the gaming industry as a whole drop me a email at frank@theman661.tk. Alright enough about me. I hope you enjoy the show!

Thanks,

Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)

2006-10-25T18:16:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the new blog format!

See I told you I would update the blog! This is my new blog which i will post all xbox 360 news manually instead of a hard to edit automatic blog. So this will help me customize the blog a little easier!

Thanks For Listening!

-Frank (Gamertag: TheMan661)