The name "Xbox 360" was chosen by Microsoft for several strategic marketing reasons. Initially, the console was meant to be called "Xbox 2," but the marketing team decided against this to avoid a direct numerical comparison with Sony's PlayStation 3, which could imply that the Xbox was a generation behind its competitor148.
Instead, the term "360" was intended to convey a sense of completeness and immersion, suggesting a full-circle experience in gaming and entertainment. This branding aimed to position the Xbox 360 as a versatile multimedia hub rather than just a gaming console, emphasizing its capabilities beyond gaming, such as streaming media and online connectivity234.
Additionally, the name "360" was memorable and catchy, contributing to its marketability. It symbolized a revolution in gaming technology and experiences, indicating that it encompassed all aspects of entertainment within a single system34. Overall, the choice of "Xbox 360" reflected Microsoft's vision of creating an all-encompassing entertainment center for living rooms.