Player match (game based)
This mode of play is designed as a non-competitive "jump in and have fun" mode. Matches aren’t ranked and don’t involve True Skill Matchmaking. Players can browse a list of available games, choose one that suits their needs, and then enter into the fray.

Ranked play (game based)
This play mode is designed to cater to gamers who crave competition and want to face a challenge every game. Using True Skill Matchmaking, gamers are matched with players of like skill, experience, and personality. This mode generally also contributes to a gamer’s online ranking for the particular game they are playing.

Custom match (game based)
This how a gamer can create and host his/her own matches over XBL. The host can select options from the setup menu, including player count and item availability. People can join his/her match by accepting invites or joining from player match searches.

Content download (dashboard based)
Content Download is an option that is sometimes mandatory in the form of patches, and sometimes selectable from the marketplace in the form of maps or characters. There is generally a fee attached to new game content, but patches for software upgrades are free. Players can pay for content either with a credit card or through Microsoft Point Cards.

XBL arcade (dashboard based)
XBLA is a new feature to the Xbox brand that allows a gamer to download independently developed titles approved for Xbox by Microsoft. Some developers also offer games from the back catalogs for download through the service.

Spectator mode
Watch other gamers play in an online “virtual arcade” mode.

Intelligent matchmaking
XBL uses a gamer’s profile date to match up compatible players.

Feedback
XBL lets gamers rate players as either good or bad, then matches them according to feedback.

Enhanced friends list
Review gamer cards of prospective friends and see their Friends Lists.

Ubiquitous chat

• Voice chat with friends regardless of subscription level
• Chat with friends in different game sessions
• MSN Chat
• Video chat for XBL members
• Requires X360 compatible headset and camera

Message center
All notifications, voice and video messages, and system- and service-based communications are stored in one location.

Market place
Here you can download demos, trailers, movies, TV show (US only), dashboard wallpapers, player icons and arcade games. Some of the content like the demos and the trailers are free and some of it like the arcade games you have to buy with Microsoft points.

Gamer profile
Summarizes preferences, achievements, and online personality, including:

• Gamer card that acts like a personal ID card
• Gamerzone - lets you indicate four choices of social gaming style
• Achievements - indicates your progress, skill, and accomplishments
• Reputation - allows you to see how the community rates you
• Gamerscore - tallies a cumulative score of all achievements.

Exclusive programming
The Prime Time Calendar provides information about events on XBL, such as “Game with Fame,” “Mystery Gamer,” and "Play and Win."

Tournaments and competitions
XBL-sponsored tournaments exist across a multitude of different titles and genres. XBL also supports gamer-created tourneys.

• Memberships

• User Reviews
• XBL Arcade Games
• XBL Troubleshooting