Despite a tough economy, the gaming industry held strong in 2008 and, according to Microsoft, Xbox 360 recorded the biggest year in Xbox history, with more consoles, games and online entertainment experiences sold than any previous year.
It was a year in which life-to-date unit sales of Xbox 360 systems climbed to 28 million consoles worldwide - expanding the product's lead over Sony PlayStation 3 to more than 8 million units. The Xbox LIVE community also grew to more than 17 million active members, as online consumer spending increased 84 percent from last year.
Since the launch of the Xbox 360 three years ago, more than $1 billion has been spent on Xbox LIVE.
"For Xbox, 2008 will be remembered around the world as a pivotal growth year at retail and online - even in the face of tough economic conditions," said Don Mattrick, senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. "Worldwide, a record number of players flocked to our broadest games and entertainment lineup ever, while the New Xbox Experience thrilled millions of fans by making our console even more engaging. And yet, we've only provided a glimpse into the new world of interactive entertainment that we're imagining. The best of Xbox 360 is yet to come."
