So it's that time of the year people are looking to purchase a game console for themselves or a loved one.  With so many possible Xbox 360 versions it's tough to know exactly which one to buy.  Right now in stores there are 4 possible versions: Elite($449), Halo 3 Edition($399), Premium (Pro)($349) and the Arcade($279).  The basic differences are in game save storage and what is bundled with the console.  The Elite, which is the black box, comes with the 120GB hard drive and has a HDMI cord in the box.  The Halo 3 Edition is branded with the Halo game and comes with a play and charge kit, 20GB hard drive and has HDMI but no HDMI cable.  The Premium, white box, can currently be found with Forza Motorsport 2 and Marvel:Ultimate Alliance comes with a 20 GB hard drive and new models may have an HDMI port.  The Arcade, green box, comes with 5 arcade games and has a 256MB memory card for game saves.

Of the four consoles I recommend buying the Premium since it comes bundled with two games.  The larger hard drive space really is not needed unless you plan to buy tons of TV shows or hate deleting demos.  If you can be sure, try to get a newer Xbox 360 since they will be sporting the hardware fixes that resolve the issues earlier Xbox 360s have been plaguing the system. 

If you are currently looking to buy a game for someone who owns a Xbox 360 here are my top five recommendations:
1) Mass Effect - An epic Sci-Fi role playing game  that has gotten critical acclaim.
2) Guitar Hero III - This rhythm game allows you to play new and classic rock songs in a virtual band.
3) Project Gotham 4 - This arcade style racing game has been a keystone franchise for the Xbox brand.
4) Rock Band - This rhythm game lets you be the singer, lead guitar or drummer in a virtual band. 
5) Halo 3 - The first person shooter launched has been the top selling game franchise for the Xbox and is an excellent game.

Here are my top 5 Xbox 360 Accessories:
1) Quick Charge Kit - Allows you to charge two battery packs at once and comes with a spare battery.
2) Messenger Kit - Allows you to easily type text messages via keyboard that attaches to the controller.
3) Limited Edition Halo 3 controller - It;s a wireless controller with art work from Todd Mcfarlane.
4) HD-DVD Player -  It's a $179 HD-DVD player that plugs into your Xbox 360. 
5) Halo 3:Contact Harvest - This book is the latest Halo 3 novel and is a best seller.

I hope this post helps any confused shoppers out there wondering what to buy.