Microsoft has finally stopped production of the Xbox 360, with the company finally saying goodbye to their most successful console to date (and, quite possibly, ever). After more than a decade of production there'll be no new consoles made, although Microsoft has committed to continued support via Xbox Live and programs such as Games with Gold.
"Xbox 360 means a lot to everyone in Microsoft," Xbox boss Phil Spencer said of the console that launched first in North America way back in 2005. "And while we've had an amazing run, the realities of manufacturing a product over a decade old are starting to creep up on us. Which is why we have made the decision to stop manufacturing new Xbox 360 consoles. We will continue to sell existing inventory of Xbox 360 consoles, with availability varying by country."
Xbox 360 was a huge success story for Microsoft, and in many territories bested PlayStation 3 thanks to console exclusive titles such as Gears of War, Halo 3, and Mass Effect. It also played its part ushering in the digital age thanks to the success of Xbox Live. And despite the dreaded "red ring of death" the hurt the console's early years, it will still be remembered fondly by millions and millions of gamers.