Over the last few weeks, we've documented just about everything you'll ever want to know about Microsoft's latest piece of gaming hardware, the recently launched Xbox 360. We've told you all about the system's cutting-edge multimedia capabilities, the tremendous Xbox Live support, as well as the games that were available at launch. Of course, this is just the beginning of the console's life cycle, so we figured that now would be as good a time as any to check out what's in store for the future of the system. Over the next few days, we'll be taking a look at some of the games that you can expect to see in 2006 and beyond. Although most of these titles have been officially announced, we don't really know all that much about them, a fact that isn't about to stop us from speculating. So, without further ado, let's take a look into the Xbox 360's future.



The Godfather

With this game set in Mario Puzo's mafia-filled universe, it appears that Electronic Arts is finally trying its hand at some Grand Theft Auto-style ultraviolence. When the game begins, you'll be a low-level enforcer, and you'll be given plenty of opportunities to gradually make your way up throught the ranks to become a Don, just like Mr. Brando himself. You'll be able to do everything from bribe cops to rob banks, and the game keeps track of your "respect". After a while, pedestrians on the street will even drop to their knees to kiss your ring.


One of the coolest elements of the game is the ability to create your own, highly-detailed character by using the Mob Face technology. Similar to the GameFace mechanic seen in the Tiger Woods PGA Tour series, the system will allow you to creat virtually any person you want, although you'll be limited to those of Italian descent (after all, it is a mafia game). Ever wanted to see Chef Boyardee cave in a stool pigeon's skulls? Ummm, me neither.



Saint's Row

Another game that's going the Grand Theft Auto route is this urban action title from THQ. As a member of a gang called The 3rd Street Saints, you'll wage warfare against a number of other mobs to gain control of a city called Still Water. You'll be able to jack cars, pick up your homies, and perform drive-bys as you rise to the top of the city's criminal underworld.


While it's certainly easy to compare the game to Rockstar's uber-popular crime franchise, there a number of elements that help make this title unique. Customization plays a big part, as you can create and recreate (thanks to a plastic surgery mechanic) your character to your heart's content. Since Xbox Live is such a big part of the console, it's not surprising that developer Volition has included an as-yet-unrevealed online component. Now you can take the battle to every street across the world.