Online Accessories

Xbox 360 Messenger Kit

If you've ever used the non-keyboard of typing on the Xbox, it's a bit like typing on a keyboard from the other side of the room, using a broom handle. Enter the Xbox 360 Messenger Kit, the official mini-keyboard that will save you hours of frustration typing messages on your Xbox 360.

The Messenger Kit offers a super-easy way to input text to the Xbox console. It's an essential accessory if you're planning to spend any time sending text messages to friends online. (You may be surprised how often you will want to do this once you start building up contacts. It's a bit like text messaging but more fun as it's on screen).

The keyboard will also come in handy for typing text into the 360 during games, which things like RPGs require. Although I wouldn't recommend you buy one just for that, as it's not something you spend a lot of time with. The keyboard snaps securely onto the bottom of either the wired or wireless controller, and provides a fast, easy way to type, without interrupting your game play.

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Xbox 360 Wireless Adapter

If you're planning to go online with your Xbox 360 then you're in for a real treat. I just can't tell you how much fun lies ahead once you get connected. Don't think it's just all about shooting your mates in first person shooters. There's a WORLD of stuff you can do. And the Xbox 360 Wireless Adapter is one of the easiest options to getting connected.

Unlike the PS3, the Xbox 360 doesn't come with a network adapter built in, to get it online. This was likely done to keep the initial cost down but it's kind of a pain in the arse. The official network adapter (and I've not seen and cheaper knock-off versions yet) is pretty expensive but, in my opinion, easily worth the cash - not only for the fun you'll have but for the hassle you'll save too.

I wasted a lot of time trying to get my Xbox to talk to routers and also to this other hub I had. It got really frustrating and I eventually gave in and bought the wireless network adapter. It cost about £60 and it's come down a fair bit. It snaps on the back of the Xbox and doesn't take any fitting or fannying about. Very easy and well worth the cash.

Once it's on, and presuming you've got the Xbox 360 Hard Drive, you're ready for some serious fun. I'd recommend spending some time playing around with Xbox live arcade, downloading all the free demos, and also grabbing free demos of all the old and new games that you're interested in. You'll likely find a whole wealth of stuff you'll enjoy.

Buy the 360 Wireless Network Adapter here