xbox 360 brans new

In the year of our lord 2023, you will be able to purchase a brand-new Xbox 360 — but there’s a catch. You’ll have to assemble it yourself. A full seven years after Microsoft stopped production on what was its bestselling console, block builder company Mega has revealed a 3:4 scale replica of an Xbox 360 that’s available exclusively at Target starting October 8th. This unique offering by Mega allows gaming enthusiasts to relive the nostalgia of the Xbox 360 era while embracing their inner builder. The replica comes with all the necessary components and instructions, providing an exciting DIY experience for gamers of all ages. 

The 1,342-piece set includes the console, naturally; an Xbox 360 controller; and a bricked-up copy of Halo 3.

There’s also an impressive amount of internals to build, including a functional indicator light — with no worries about getting the infamous red ring of death. The internals of the device are designed to ensure optimal performance and prevent any hardware failures. Additionally, the functional indicator light serves as a helpful visual cue for users, providing them with real-time information about the device’s status. 

According to the set’s description, “the console opens to reveal a disc drive (and other Easter eggs),” and apparently putting the fake Halo 3 disc into the console will “activate the motherboard.” Not sure what that means, but I have a feeling 343 Guilty Spark is somehow involved. The inclusion of Easter eggs and the mention of activating the motherboard with the fake Halo 3 disc suggest that there might be hidden features or surprises within the console. It’s possible that 343 Guilty Spark, a character from the Halo series known for his involvement in mysterious events, could play a role in uncovering these secrets. 

The set’s attention to detail is impressive, particularly the inclusion of a fully detachable gray detachable 360 hard drive.

The box accurately replicates the look of a 360 box, even with the frustrating side folds.

I have to imagine half a glance at this sitting on the shelf at Target would make a generation of 30-somethings believe they’ve been transported back in time. After all, this is the same year that Final FantasyDiablo, Baldur’s Gate, and Armored Core games are making headlines while the Big Three Shonen anime series are back on TV and a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie is in theaters. The nostalgia-inducing power of this sight would be undeniable, as it encapsulates the essence of a bygone era. The combination of iconic video games, beloved anime series, and a classic movie revival creates a time capsule that instantly transports 30-somethings back to their cherished childhood memories. 

The sight of an Xbox 360 console in the wild, though not an actual console, further demonstrates our current early-year time compression.

The set releases on October 8th at $149.99. It’s available for preorder on Target’s website, but apparently Mega has tapped the nostalgia vein so hard that preorders are already sold out. That’s okay; that other brick builder company should be able to scratch your classic console itch just as well. The set is expected to be a hit among fans, given its nostalgic appeal and reasonable price point. However, if you missed out on the preorders, it’s worth keeping an eye out for restocks or exploring other retailers for a chance to get your hands on this sought-after set.