Microsoft to discontinue Xbox v1 LIVE support

Microsoft are finally closing the LIVE curtains on the original Xbox – after almost eight years of dedicated service.

Sadly. this also applies to Xbox Originals that are 360-compatible AND any applicable titles in the Games On Demand range.

Microsoft’s Marc Whitten penned a letter (presumably from an underground bunker, to avoid the salvo from disgruntled Halo 2 gamers) with the following:

“I want to start by saying this isn’t a decision we made lightly, but after careful consideration, it is clear this will provide the greatest benefit to the Xbox Live community. 

“Your Xbox Live community has grown to 23 million strong. And as we look down the road, we’ll continue to evolve the service with features and experiences that harness the full power of Xbox 360.

“To reach our aspiration, we need to make changes to the service that are incompatible with our original Xbox v1 games. We will contact the Xbox Live members directly impacted by this change and if this includes you, I encourage you to check your Live messages and associated e-mail account over the coming weeks for more details and opportunities.”

So, are there are original Xbox gamers out there? How do you feel it will affect you?