It was a year in which life-to-date unit sales of Xbox 360 systems climbed to 28 million consoles worldwide — expanding the product’s lead over Sony PlayStation 3 to more than 8 million units.

“For Xbox, 2008 will be remembered around the world as a pivotal growth year at retail and online – even in the face of tough economic conditions,” said senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business Don Mattrick. “Worldwide, a record number of players flocked to our broadest games and entertainment line-up ever, while the New Xbox Experience thrilled millions of fans by making our console even more engaging. And yet, we’ve only provided a glimpse into the new world of interactive entertainment that we’re imagining. The best of Xbox 360 is yet to come.”