Microsoft's New Xbox Experience (NXE) is still on course for a worldwide launch on November 19th, but the all-new dashboard isn't without its problems.
In order to meet its already-published launch date, Microsoft has resorted to cutting features from the NXE including its so-called game-changing Xbox Live Primetime.
First announced at E3 earlier this year, Xbox Live Primetime promised a series of scheduled game shows where Xbox Live members could compete against one another. The first known game show, titled 1 vs. 100, was said to allow an Xbox Live member to play against 100 others with a live host and real prizes for winners.
Though the Primetime service has been overshadowed by big-name titles such as Gears of War 2 and Fable 2, it could provide mass appeal to the casual-gaming market currently dominated by Nintendo's Wii.
Originally expected to launch in four regions (North America, France, Germany and the U.K) alongside the NXE on November 19th 2008, Microsoft has now confirmed that Xbox Live Primetime won't make its debut until Spring 2009. The delay is said to allow the Xbox Live team to focus on a successful and problem-free launch of the NXE.
The NXE still has plenty to offer, but Xbox Live Primetime, in our opinion, remains one of the most intriguing additions to Microsoft's online gaming platform. We're a little disappointed in the knowledge that we won't be enjoying it this Christmas.
