[Debbie]

Apparently, Microsoft has been in very interesting discussions with ESPN. The discussions center around bringing subscription based streaming video programming to the Xbox 360 platform, but it is possible that the deal might extend to the Windows platform, as well.

While details of exactly what kind of programming would be included with the subscription-based service are a bit up in the air, but it is said that it would include live sporting events as well as other ESPN programming. The New York Times believes that the programming would be similar to the same sort of programming that the company offers on its ESPN 360 service that is already available.

While no one seems to want to comment on the possibility of this actually happening, it would be a good direction for Microsoft to go. The demographics of the makeup of the majority of Xbox 360 owners could favor the addition of a service like this. The real question might actually be the pricing more than anything else. Currently, ESPN 360 airs a variety of International sporting events along with some NBA basketball, but no NFL football currently.

Currently the ISPs play ESPN for the ability for their customers to access ESPN 360. The move to offering it via a subscription base on the Xbox 360 would represent a new shift to the way that the service is marketed and that might not actually be a bad thing. What we have to wonder is if Microsoft will be able to cut an exclusive deal for it or if it is another service that will show up on PlayStation 3 in a few months after release on the Xbox 360.

Source: http://www.fudzilla.com/content/view/17286/1/

[pizzadude]

Haha....that'll really work out well

[semiferger]

It Looks like another huge disappointment. Unless microsoft finally realizes that we are paying for online gold memberships and should not need to pay for extra services then I will just stick to the gaming. I have cable and DVR so I do not need to pay for another ESPN.