Gadget of the week: Xbox 360

What is it?

Xbox's first custom-designed limited-edition Xbox 360 console with a Star Wars theme, revealed at the recently concluded Comic-Con in San Diego.

So what's special about it?

Well, if you're not a Star Wars fan, not much. But who isn't? Inspired by two of the film series' most iconic droids, R2-D2 and C-3PO, the console will make the character's signature beeping sounds when turned on and the disc tray is opened.

The white-and-blue R2-D2 comes in the form of the main Xbox while C-3PO's avatar is recreated in the wireless gold controller. There is also a 320GB hard drive, the largest available for Microsoft's gaming system. The console also comes with a white Kinect sensor and the Kinect Star Wars game so fans can utilise the camera-based controller to use gestures to wield light sabres, among many other options, like a Jedi.

The Kinect Star Wars game, which comes free with the limited-edition console, also features a Podracing mode. Podracing was a popular sport in the less-developed regions of the galaxy far, far away. Called "the ultimate test of skill", it was considered one of the most dangerous sports ever. Now, you can relive that thrill thanks to the Kinect sensor.

When is it coming to the UAE and what's the damage?

The Xbox guys are being vague, telling us the release date is "holiday season". So, we're guessing year end. The price touted in the US is around $499, which is roughly Dh1,800 for us.