First, I would like to say, very good in-depth information about the X-Box. I think you covered every aspect well, except comparing it to the PS2. "The X-Box is a must have" ???? I really doubt it. From a technical standpoint, the X-box is better in graphics and sound. The numbers speak, but you have left out the reason why people buy the consoles. We buy them for the price, the games, the feel of the controller, and the ease of use. In these catergories, the PS2 comes way out ahead. The PS2 is $100 dollars cheaper, which is a lot when you dont make a lot, and it canplay DVD's with no other needed products. X-box comes with some great add-ons, but at $30 a pop, it adds up.
There is also the games, PS2 has much better games, and a hell of a lot more of them to choose from. I played Halo, and it sucked, $50 for 10 hours of gameplay, then it was over. I am still trying to beat GTA3 weeks later.
Then, there is the controllers, if you held both, you would be lying if you said X-box's was better, it is huge, hard to use, and retarded. Most of the consumers out there still have PS1 and many addons for that, so they are overjoyed that the can still use them on the PS2. The big fact is that THE PS2 CAME OUT 1 YEAR AGO, in comuters years, that is ancient, so I think it is doing very good for its age against the X-box. The graphics may not be as good as the X-box but they are still a great improvement over PS1, WHO REALLY CARES ABOUT NO LINES IN GRAND TURISMO 3??? Not me, I just love playing the game.
So why should a person buy an X-box when they could just easily upgrade their computer to be a hell of a lot better than the X-box. I am waiting for an emulator, but until then, I am waiting for a good game to come out for the X-box, I wait still.
The main thing is that you have left out why people buy which consoles. Nintendo has made an awesome product for young people, PS2 for older people, teanagers, and X-box for the hardcore enthusiast. We both know that the better technology doesnt mean it will be adopted and used by many, hence; zip drive vs. LS-120, DDR vs. Rambus, etc. There are other reasons why one became the standard, price, availability, and the main thing: EASE OF TRANSITION, PRICE OF TRANSITION, BANG FOR THE DOLLAR. That is why the PS2 is better for me, and most people than the X-box.
thanks for listening,
Jeff Arnts