$299.99

This CNet article says the "Xbox 360 core system" will be $299.99. It goes on to say the "premium" version, which most people will probably buy, will be $399.99.

EA Focus Test, Take 2

Woot. Went to another focus test at EA tonite. This one was for the upcoming Bond game: From Russia With Love. As before, I can't say anything about the game though...

The process for these is pretty neat. They've got a bunch of debug consoles and sit you down to work through very specific parts of the game. After you get a chance to mess around with it, then there is a set of questions that are asked which you fill out on paper. Rating of the gameplay, visuals, etc. There's usually a couple sections that you work through. Both times, some of the developers and designers come in and ask specific questions around some of the stuff they've worked on.

As before, it's neat to see a game in the works. As a thanks, they let you take home a game. Last time, I picked up Nead for Speed Underground 2 (the original was very good... this one is excellent; writeup later). Tonite, I grabbed Oddworld: Stranger's Wrath. metacritic gave the game an 88, and I've heard quite a few good things about it, so it should be fun.

Heavenly Sword

Damn. Here I go thinking that platform exclusives are going to be minimized in the next-gen consoles. While that may true, the launch games are a different story. The console manufacturers want to make a big splash, so they'll pay for exclusivity.

Well, a friend just pointed me at Heavenly Sword for the PS3. EBgames is putting the release at next May (a likely release date for the PS3). There is a bit of info about the game, but the real killer is the trailer from E3

Holy crap. Take some Jade Empire, some Dynasty Warriors, and a healthy dose of God of War. Mix it all with next-gen, and damn. When this game comes out, if it gets rated as good as it is looking now... it could be a reason to buy a PS3.

Definitely one to watch for.