Xboxist

Zune HD Plays Games, Apps

We were already impressed with Microsoft's new Zune HD for its many unique features, which include HD Radio and high-definition video out. It turns out that the Nvidia-powered device will be more of a threat to the PSP, DS and iPhone than we originally reported. That's because Microsoft says that the Zune HD will also play 3D games and downloadable applications like those competing devices. The online applications will be available starting later this year from the Zune Marketplace. No pricing has been revealed, but the company did mention a few of the launch games in its official press release:

"Zune HD also features new casual games and non-gaming functionality such as a calculator and an MSN Weather application. Later this year, Zune plans to release free applications such as Twitter for Zune and Facebook for Zune, in addition to fun 3-D games such as "Project Gotham Racing: Ferrari Edition," "Vans Sk8: Pool Service" and "Audiosurf Tilt." Games can be added to Zune HD via Zune Marketplace over the Wi-Fi connection or when connected to the Zune PC software."

The first few launch games seem to have been made in-house to the Zune HD specifications. It will be interesting to hear which third party developers sign on to the service as we get closer to the release. Facebook and Twitter are cool additions as well, suggesting that Microsoft sees the Xbox 360 console and Zune handheld converging in terms of services. Now all we need is a web browser on the Xbox 360!

The Zune HD is powered by a powerful Nvidia Tegra graphics processor, ensuring that it will be able to run 3D applications on par with those found on the iPhone 3GS and PSP Go.

Zune HD goes on sale today, and you can grab it from Amazon here.