it starts straight away, even when you create a silver account.
Achievements. Do you get anything for achieving them?
just gamerscore points I think, but it's good when a game has hard achievements, feels rewarding to get them (survive 1 million in geowars really is an achievement)
Do you need a credit card for buying stuff through Xbox Live?
you can buy marketplace points in stores these days
Can I register an Xbox Live account now on PC before I get a 360 (like I did for the PS3)?
i'm pretty sure you can, check xbox.com
What sort of ping would I get? I'm in WA with a 1500/265 ADSL connection.
dunno about that one, a good host is needed though, pretty much all games are p2p.
Is a Play & Charge kit necessary?
no, but you really should get one anyway.
My TV is old and only supports 50hz
Am I screwed?no, but some games require a 60hz compatible tv, I suggest you find a monitor, cheap HD, no 50hz dramas.
What sort of deals are available now/will be available during Q1 2007? (bundled games etc.)
dunno
Anything else I should know/need to do to get the most out of the Xbox 360?
don't limit your friends list to ranchers, find some aussies and add them to your friends list, plenty of WA gamers out there too (mcwrang is one), ranchers won't always be into the games you like, it's a bandwagon thing
also, you really want a better TV, it's extra cash but it's worth every cent, 5.1 is also important imo.
THANKS!
seems so
