I've got the latest screenshots from Microsoft's incoming Kinect racer Joy Ride. If you think it looks a lot like a Wii game I would agree with you. Of course the Xbox 360 is pumping out graphics in HD though, if that's some sort of consolation prize. The game also utilizes a gamer's avatar in the game like a Wii does.

I still don't know what to make of Kinect. I do like the name but I just don't see this being a huge seller - especially priced at $150.

Joy Ride and the Kinect system are set to hit the streets on November 4th.

Read more: Kinect Joy Ride Says Look at Mii

The Xbox LIVE most played list for the week of August 2nd was posted and it's the usual COD-Halo-FIFA set at the top followed by games like Red Dead Redemption and GTA IV. L4D2 is still hanging tough which is pretty good for a game getting on it's life that's not in the top 5.

Some surprising games might be Castlevania Harmony of Despair, LIMBO and Hydro Thunder Hurricane; while they don't crack the top 10 in the standard list they do come in the top 3 on the Arcade list which is pretty impressive. Next week should be interesting as Madden 11 should fly up the ranks.
 

Read more: Arcade Games Have Strong Showing in Early August XBLIVE Most Played Lists

Just ahead of this week's launch (that's a week earlier than planned which is nice) the Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days demo is now available for download and playing on XBLIVE.

I'm not sure it's your cup of tea and I can't believe I just said cup of tea but the game is at the very least intriguing because it's sure to be banned somewhere in the world so you should try it out just so you know when someone says something stupid about the game and video game violence in general you'll be prepared.

Read more: Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days Demo Ready on XBLIVE

Microsoft and Bungie unveiled the special Limited Edition Halo Reach Xbox 360 and it looks mighty fine. The unit comes with a spiffy Halo-inspired color scheme, matching controllers and of course the game. This is the latest gen Xbox 360 with a big 250GB hard drive and the latest built-in Wi-fi. Taking it a bit further than usually done with limited edition Xboxes, the Halo Reach version uses Halo sounds for the On/Off button that while a small gesture certainly add to the machine's mystique.

The price is right for this beast at $399 but I have to quibble with the lack of the better Halo Reach bundle. Why aren't they offering the limited edition Reach with the Limited Edition Xbox 360? Seems like they were more concerned about hitting that magic $399 bundle price they love so much.

Pre-order today from Amazon and get release day delivery - Use this link.

Read more: Bungie Unveils Halo Reach Xbox 360 Limited Edition 250GB

Microsoft is running a special "contest" by selling Gears of War 3 avatar items with this fateful decision hanging in the balance "The fate of Carmine lies in your hands! For the first time in franchise history, Epic Games and Microsoft are giving fans the chance to decide the fate of a character in “Gears of War 3.” By purchasing avatar gear on Xbox LIVE Marketplace" The money will not be going into Microsoft's bank account though, they are donating all proceeds to Child's Play Charity which is nice.

Starting July 29th you can buy a Save Carmine or Carmine Must Die shirt that will decide this character's life or death.

Read more: Buy Gears of War 3 Avatar Shirts and Decide the Fate of One of the Characters In the Game