Searching the Internet for a proper way to “mod” an XBOX360 to play downloaded games (backups) can be an arduous endeavor. I spent hours sifting through dozens of sites and pages before I found out how it is really done, so I thought I would share that knowledge.
When browsing the latest XBOX360 torrents, one thing stands out - many ‘proper’ scene releases are tailored towards XBOX360’s that have been “firmware-flashed”. Firmware Flashing is not the addition of a so-called mod-chip - however, it does require a few tools; plus it includes opening of the unit chassis - which, in turn, breaks the warranty. It can also void out your XBOX Live account, or, in a worst-case scenario, brick the unit completely. Yet I recommend that this firmware approach is still much safer than a mod-chip hardware solution.
I included this mini-guide on the site to bring awareness to gamers, and take no credit for anything shown. The true kudos belongs to http://www.360mods.net - the real pioneers behind XBOX360 modding. All the information you need can be found there - I recommend you register with them to get the most out of the site.
The userguide for XBOX360 Firmware Flashing can be found here:
http://www.360mods.net/tutorial/Textbook.pdf
In short, there are three different types of DVD drives that are shipped inside an XBOX360, and the procedures for firmware flashing vary from one to the next. You’ll first need to identify which drive your unit came with, and proceed accordingly - it is all outlined in Textbook.pdf. Image courtesy of 360mods.net:
The tutorial also comes with hands-on video footage of the procedure in action. This is the video showing how to flash an XBOX that contains the ‘Toshiba-Samsung’ DVD drive. To quote 360mods.net: Please do not try to follow this video tutorial alone. You should download the text tutorial first, and read that. Follow the text tutorial, and only watch the video if you need clarification.
The videoguide for the Hitachi drive can be found here:
Coming Up: Once you get that sorted out, you’ll be ready to download and burn your own games.
Andrew Says:
Not worth the risk imho. I’ve gone through 3 xbox 360’s already from the RROD. Plus you can’t even play on Live.
zeb7s Says:
Eh live sucks now anyways unless you are between the ages of 8 and 12, so was an easy decision and have yet to have any trouble with my box.
Plus if you ever get the urge to play one of the few good live games (aka halo) you can just hop on xlink or xbc
kester Says:
i agree, I’ve had my x box for a while now and there isn’t anything special on live
so i did the mod and never had a problem, saves me a bunch of money on games
halo 3 = $60, after mod ,halo 3= free
love it
xbox360 games Says:
I bookmarked your blog, thanks for sharing this very interesting post
Wes Says:
misleading
fo3nixz Says:
err.still can be considered mod chip , its a mod and u flash a chip..