While I had the opportunity to get in on the beta for the new Dashboard update, I had to pass because of time constraints. However, reports and tests have been coming out around the gaming community about the changes in the new Dashboard. So far, there’s been a collective stream of positive reviews about the new changes.
The new Dashboard update is supposed to reduce Hard Drive usage considerably. According to Digital Foundry, the new software allows the system to be more specific in what non-pertinent data is left on the Hard Drive. Early tests run around the gaming community report as much as cutting space down to 1/5th or more of usage. The new King of Fighters XII has seen a change from 3.4 GB to a measly little 703 MB and Raiden Fighters Aces from 3.4 GB to 484 MB. While not all games will see a drastic reduction in space, those that do will start to add up and leave you with more space to store your demos, videos, etc.
Expect a much smoother interface with a faster Dashboard. This is supposed to apply to all areas whether it be load up times, browsing the menu system, or accessing content. A welcome improvement in any update.
Also, the new avatar marketplace is supposed to be pricier. Why? Makes no sense to me, as people are less willing to shell out a lot of money for a single avatar. As opposed to having everything cheaper, where people would be more willing to buy multiple items at a lower price. Personally, I don’t care much for them, but I know there are plenty of you out there that like to pimp your avatars out. None of which will be happy with the new prices. Bad move by Microsoft.
August 11th is the official release date. Check out Digital Foundry for a more in depth review along with a video preview.
Agreed. Hopefully the earlier Xbox 360 owners (like myself) can fit more than one installed title on the HD in addition to all the DLC.
Hopefully the bigger updates that are due near X-Mas will make for a far more in depth user experience. I would still like to see some more customization options.
I had a chance to play with this, and while most of the updates are underlying, it's good to see that they're working on those types of improvements.