XBConnect is one of several FREE, LEGAL, programs out there that allow you to essentially connect your game console to the internet and play against users worldwide. Instead of having to subscribe to your consoles fee-based network, users are connected to one another using a PC program that creates an alternate network for gamers to play against one another. Although platforms and game titles are sometimes limited based on the gaming network you use, for those on either tight budgets, or simply of tight wallets, one is provided with an alternative to the established fee-based networks that are out there. The first gaming network I want to discuss here is XBConnect (http://www.xbconnect.com/). It currently supports both the XBOX and PSP handheld console with an average of 5,000 users, 1,727 currently connected as I speak, for the XBOX, and well, a handful for the PSP, and works by tricking your console into thinking that it is connected to a local area network(LAN). Supported game titles can sometimes be limited depending on time and day of use (see http://www.xbconnect.com/index.php?topic=SupportedGames), but again, for those looking for alternatives to XBOX Live, etc., or simply want extra money for beer, cigarettes, hookers, or whatever vice in your leisure, XBConnect merits a closer look. To get started, first simply download the browser and install onto your PC.
After creating a login and password combo, login and select the desired platform.
Host and user population statistics will appear in the center, with game selections available on the left.
The next step is to connect your game console to the PC (for network configurations and router assistance see http://www.xbconnect.com/xbchelp/router/), and let it search for the linked games selected on XBConnect. Overall, the program is not bad, and more importantly, it is FREE. Is free ever bad?
NEXT REVIEW: Free Global Gaming Networks Revisited: XLINK Kai - "...bringing together Xbox, PS2, GC, and PSP in one integrated community.” (http://www.teamxlink.co.uk) SOULXTC |
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