We heard it was coming—but that was pretty much all we heard. Now Microsoft has officially announced that they will release an external high-def DVD player for the Xbox 360.

The current Xbox 360 doesn’t come with an HD DVD unit, so instead of shunning the thousands of customers that have already shelled out the cash, they are eager to please everyone with this $200 add-on.

With this announcement, Microsoft is hoping that the Xbox 360 won’t get swept under all of the PlayStation 3 fanfare. The PlayStation 3, which is scheduled to hit shelves worldwide in November, will come with the competing Blu-ray high-def DVD player integrated as part of the package.

To further entice Xbox fans, the add-on will come with an HD DVD version of “King Kong” and the Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote. It’s a limited time offer though, so you’d better start camping out!

Microsoft’s HD DVD player is rumored to hit shelves next month. There’s no word on an exact release date.

• $199.99
• Expected to hit retailers in November
• External add-on for existing Xbox 360

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.