Gaming fans across the globe eagerly await the release of Xbox 360, scheduled for November 22, 2005. Since its launch in 2001, Xbox gaming systems have been a favorite among hard-core gamers. Created by Microsoft, Xbox had to compete with popular systems such as the Sony Playstation and Nintendo. The success of Xbox was unimaginable.

In addition to being released in the United States, Microsoft has scheduled a December release of Xbox in Europe and Japan. Australian, Mexican, and Korean gamers will have to wait until early 2006. Fans were informed of the new Xbox earlier this year. They were given a sneak peek of the new design at the 2005 Tokyo Game Show. This preview put a stop to many rumors involving the new design.

Because the release of Xbox 360 occurs during the beginning of the holiday shopping season, Microsoft anticipates selling 1.5 million consoles during this first month. Retail stores are given a limited supply of gaming systems, thus concerns about low quantities are high. Yet, there is a solution for those determined to be one of the first to get their hands on the new console.

Several retail stores that will carry the new Xbox 360 are allowing customers to reserve consoles in advanced. The base price of the new Xbox is about $299.99. Those preferring a system with enhanced features must be willing to shell out an extra hundred dollars because at $399.99, this Xbox includes wireless controllers and hi-definition capabilities. Each retail store is different. Some may require customers to pay the full or partial price of consoles in advance. Meanwhile, smaller retailers may simply include a customers name on a roster or waiting list. The downside to the latter is that those who procrastinate in purchasing their new console will be removed from the waiting list.