Microsoft and ESPN partner to provide sports shows through Xbox Live

Microsoft Corp. and ESPN recently reached an agreement that will bring the world of sports to the Xbox 360. Owners of Microsoft’s console will be able to download full length sporting events and television show episodes in both standard and high definition formats through its Xbox LIVE service. This service started on November 5, 2007, and is aimed at sporting fans of all ages offering events that include NCAA college basketball and football games, the X Games, The World Series of Poker and The Contender among others.

All the games and shows will be available 48 hours after the original broadcasting dates and will be commercial-free. The prices for the events have already been announced and they will vary depending on their length and whether they are in standard or high definition. For example, a one-hour episode in standard definition such as The Contender will cost $2, and the high definition version will be available for $2.40. Longer events like a two hour basketball or football game will cost $3 for standard definition and $4.50 for the high definition version.

I think this is a great idea for sports fans because we are always looking for replays of our favorite moments and the best plays in a game. This service will grant Xbox 360 owners the opportunity to have as many replays as they want or maybe to relive that great football game where your team came from behind to win with that last minute touchdown or that awesome catch by you favorite wide receiver.

As these games are different content than movies, maybe they won’t be deleted from the Xbox’s hard drive allowing for a collection of games and sporting events in high definition. Microsoft is definitely on the right track with its Xbox Live service and I hope they keep coming up with ideas like this to keep the content fresh and updated.

Read [Techshout] Also read [Totally360]