Countdown to Origen Xbox 360!

Microsoft is promising to reveal the secret behind the mysterious Origen Xbox 360 site by 12 noon Pacific Standard Time.

The one-page site features a tree growing out of a hole with two rabbits at the base, along with a countdown timer set to expire at 12 noon on 27 September 2005.

600,000 gamers have already visited the site in the hope of deciphering its cryptic meaning, but so far none have succeeded.

Over the last month, the site has undergone many subtle changes intended as hints for those following it: the site’s rabbits have frequently changed positions, Latin text appeared on one of the tree roots, and the fruits on the tree have been steadily multiplying.

In a statement to the gaming industry press released yesterday, Microsoft revealed little but teased much, saying,

“The internet is already buzzing with rumours. Is Origen the announcement of Halo 3? Is it an Xbox 360 shop on Times Square, is it the announcement on an Unreal Engine 3-powered Fable sequel…….?”

The remainder of the press release (reproduced below) was equally mysterious, confirming only that the Origen secret would be revealed at 12 noon on 27 September 2005. The release hinted vaguely at what gamers could expect from Origen, but stopped short of disclosing exactly what Origen is.

“Origen is? The debut of next generation gaming. A real place dedicated to gaming pleasures.

A place to play Xbox 360 before anyone else. A place to play all the Xbox 360 launch titles. A place to take on other gamers.

How do you get to Origen? Over 600,000 gamers have already tried to find out. They find a page at www.origenxbox360.com, but paradise is not there yet.

The gates of Origen open soon. The European race for entry into Origen starts on 27 September 2005.”

Stay tuned for the latest details on Origen Xbox 360 as soon as they are revealed!