Sad news indeed. As mentioned by major nelson, Microsoft are to officially shut down Xbox live services for Xbox games on 15/4/2010. This includes games played by emulation on the 360's "Originals" range.

This action symbolizes the last of the links between 360 and Xbox apart from the Xbox name (and Halo). I personally always got the impression that Microsoft have been somehow embarrassed by, and ashamed of, the original Xbox and have really tried to distance itself from it since 360 launched with the half arsed backwards compatibility and no Xbox peripherals support (Although, that hasn't stopped me...). It is disappointing for me especially as I will no longer have the ability to play OutRun 2 tracks online.

On the plus point, at least you can now softmod my Xbox without fear of being banned from live. Will probably get XBMC onto it so I can network my media all round the house. That guide runs it through Mech Assault but also works with Splinter cell or Agent under fire - See my HDTV guide for old consoles in the retro forums for further details.

Also, there are still some options for those of us who like to play Xbox games online. Unfortunately, it only works with system link games so no Street Fighter III online anymore. :cry:

Anyone want to join myself and others on TDS to dedicate a day/night/weekend/week to original Xbox online gaming? Would be a fitting memorial for a fantastic service.

Feel free to leave your messages of condolences below.

Xbox live is dead. Long live Xbox live!

Image: http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/8878/xbldead.jpg