Microsoft's first foray into the home video game market came in 2001 with the launch of the original Xbox console. One of the first games for the system--and still one of the most popular game series on the console--was Halo: Combat Evolved. Glowing reviews of Halo from critics and fans alike helped cement the Xbox as a strong contender against the number one console of the time, the PlayStation 2.

However, many PlayStation 2 and Nintendo devotees thought that the Xbox's launch was sub-par. Some felt that Halo was the only truly launch-worthy game, but opinions changed in the subsequent months and years. With Xbox games like the three titles from the Splinter Cell series, along with other high-profile titles, including entries from the Grand Theft Auto series, Xbox systems became fixtures of home entertainment centers throughout the world.

The release of the Xbox 360 in November 2005 makes this is a wonderful time for Xbox gamers to build up their Xbox game collections. As many gamers are selling off their Xbox games and systems in anticipation of the new console, many Xbox owners are scooping up these cheap Xbox games to build their video game libraries.

Two great features of the original Xbox console are its support for Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound and high definition television sets. Many gamers who purchase a widescreen digital display in the future will be able to play a large number of their older Xbox titles in high definition with theater-quality sound. When you revisit your favorite Xbox games by playing them on an HDTV, it truly is like playing the games again for the first time.