It seems like the new Xbox 360 shares one problem with the previous model. Luckily, it is not the infamous Red Ring of Death (RROD). Instead, it will scratch and destroy your game disc if you move the console while the disc is spinning.
The guys over at have tested this out with a copy of Alan Wake (make sure you check out the video on their website), and the disc was destroyed/damaged when they moved the console while the disc was spinning.
If you have just got yourself a new Xbox 360, then it might be a good idea to make sure you don’t do this, as it could end up being expensive. You would have thought that Microsoft would have come up with a way to solve this problem in the new Xbox 360.
Understanding the Issue
The problem of disc scratching is not entirely new to Xbox 360 users. The original Xbox 360 also had a similar issue where moving the console while a disc was spinning could result in severe scratches, rendering the game unplayable. This issue is particularly frustrating for gamers who invest a significant amount of money in their game collections. The new Xbox 360, despite its various improvements and sleek design, unfortunately, carries over this flaw.
The mechanism inside the Xbox 360 that holds the disc in place is sensitive to movement. When the console is moved, the disc can shift slightly, causing it to come into contact with the laser or other internal components. This contact can create deep scratches on the disc surface.
Preventive Measures
To avoid this costly mistake, it is crucial to follow some preventive measures:
1. Keep the Console Stationary: Ensure that your Xbox 360 is placed on a stable surface where it is unlikely to be moved accidentally. Avoid placing it in high-traffic areas where it might get knocked over.
2. Remove Discs Before Moving: If you need to move your console, always remove the disc first. This simple step can save you from the heartache of a damaged game.
3. Use Digital Downloads: With the rise of digital gaming, consider purchasing digital versions of your games. This eliminates the risk of disc damage entirely.
4. Invest in a Disc Repair Kit: If you do end up with a scratched disc, there are disc repair kits available that can sometimes fix minor scratches. However, this is not a guaranteed solution and should be a last resort.
Microsoft’s Response
Microsoft has acknowledged the issue in the past but has not provided a definitive solution in the hardware design. Instead, they have focused on other improvements and features in the new Xbox 360 model. The company has encouraged users to follow the preventive measures mentioned above to avoid disc damage.
In some cases, Microsoft has offered to replace damaged discs, but this is not a consistent policy and often depends on the specific circumstances and the warranty status of the console.
While the new Xbox 360 offers many enhancements over its predecessor, the disc scratching issue remains a significant drawback. Gamers must be cautious and take preventive measures to protect their game discs. It is disappointing that such a fundamental flaw persists in an otherwise advanced gaming console.
For those who have experienced this issue, it serves as a reminder of the importance of handling gaming hardware with care. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is hoped that future console designs will address and eliminate such problems, providing a more seamless and worry-free gaming experience.
via Dvice
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