Xbox 360 Records its Biggest Year Ever in 2008

Following up on yesterday's announcement that the Xbox 360 had its best ever Christmas performance in Europe, Microsoft today announced that 2008 has turned out to be the biggest year for the console since its launch. With Xbox Live expanding to 17 million "active members" (what deems someone an "active member" is unbeknownst to us) and 28 million consoles sold worldwide, Microsoft claims that the 360 now has more than an 8 million unit lead over the PlayStation 3. They also report that online consumer spending increased by 84% -- but that could very easily be attributed to the increase in Xbox 360 owners and the expanding library of content. "For Xbox, 2008 will be remembered around the world as a pivotal growth year at retail and online -- even in the face of tough economic conditions," said Microsoft senior VP Don Mattrick. "Worldwide, a record number of players flocked to our broadest games and entertainment lineup ... (link)