With an Xbox 360 you can now download MGM movies in HD, as well as standard definition movies, through Xbox LIVE. Microsoft’s popular gaming console is the first of its kind to offer this feature. The deal between MGM and Microsoft was announced at CES ’08, with a goal of 50 movies to become available for download.
Some movies available in HD include: Rush Hour 3, Mr. Woodcock, Rocky, The Terminator, The Assassination of Jesse James, 3:10 to Yuma, Shoot ‘Em Up, The Brave One, and newer James Bond films Die Another Day and The World is Not Enough. TV shows like LOST are also available for download in HD.
An Xbox LIVE Silver (free) or Gold ($7.99 mo.) account is needed to download content, and a point system is used to purchase TV shows or movies. HD movies cost more than standard definition movies. For example a high definition movie would cost 360 Microsoft Points compared to 240 points for standard definition. New releases cost more, at 480 and 320 Microsoft Points respectively.
The Format Scene
After Toshiba discontinued the HD DVD add-on player for Xbox 360 last week, Microsoft is hoping that downloadable media will replace the need for discs. As of yet, they have not announced any plans to develop a Blu-ray Disc player for the gaming console. Blu-ray advocates and tech bloggers have recently been questioning Microsoft’s business savvy, indicating that failing to develop a Blu-ray Disc player add-on would be hurtful to the future of the console.
