Microsoft ends production of its Xbox 360 console, explaining that 'the realities of manufacturing a product over a decade old are starting to creep up on us.'

Released all the way back in November 2005, Microsoft's Xbox 360 has sold over 84 million units across the globe. Not only did the console introduce (now iconic) series like Gears of War and Saints Row, but it also helped to make online multiplayer service Xbox Live the massively popular juggernaut that it is today. However, after all that the Xbox 360 has done for gamers (and for Microsoft’s Xbox brand as a whole), production of the console is now coming to an end.

In a statement from Xbox boss Phil Spencer, he says that the “Xbox 360 helped redefine an entire generation of gaming at Microsoft” and that he is “incredibly proud of all of the work and dedication that went into development of the Xbox 360 hardware, services and games portfolio over the last decade."

But, Spencer explains, “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 the company has decided to stop making the console. During its lifetime, the “beloved gaming and entertainment hub” saw 78 billion gaming hours played during its lifetime, over 25 billion hours spent in apps and players also racked up a 486 billion Gamerscore on 27 billion achievements.

Spencer also explains that Microsoft will “continue to sell existing inventory of Xbox 360 consoles, with availability varying by country” and Xbox Live services will continue. This includes online multiplayer gaming (and parties), access to apps, Games With Gold and Deals With Gold. Xbox 360 games will continue to be sold digitally and physically and hardware will still be supported on the Xbox website.

While many Xbox fans will surely be sad that Xbox 360 production is stopping, many will also likely agree that Microsoft has done the right thing here. The company says that this year, the Xbox 360’s successor, the Xbox One, has the greatest lineup of games in Xbox history and the company has also been pushing Xbox One sales with deals such as the major money-saving spring bundle deal. By ending Xbox 360 production, when the stock completely runs out, those looking to buy an Xbox console will only have the Xbox One as an option.

Moreover, Microsoft is keen to point out that Xbox One owners can still play Xbox 360 games via Xbox One Backward Compatibility. Microsoft continues to add new games to the service, with recent additions including the first Dark Souls game and Sonic The Fighters. With even more games likely to be added in the coming months, again, Microsoft continues to give gamers more reasons to buy its newer system over its aging one.

What is your favorite Xbox 360 game of all time? Are you sad to see the console end production? Let us know in the comments.

Source: GameSpot