Rumors abound that an Xbox price cut is in the works: There's a GameSpot story called Further proof of Xbox price drop based on a leaked advertisement that apparently lists the console system for $199.94, while demonstrating no doubts about this, Analysts: Xbox U.S. Price Dropping to $199 on GameSpyDaily reports that Microsoft has given indications to "retailers and analysts that the company will soon slash the U.S. price of the Xbox console to $199." Not to be confused with Gladius Online, this LucasArts press release announces production on Gladius, a game that will offer loads of Russell Crowe-style gladiator gameplay, and in timely strokes, GameSpot Previews Gladius and PC.IGN.Com Previews Gladius, each offering a look ahead at the game which is expected in "spring 2003 on PlayStation 2, Xbox and GameCube." There's a Prisoner of War Preview on GameSpot with a look at the upcoming stealth get out of jail free game for the PS2. There are some new Buffy the Vampire Slayer screenshots on TeamXbox. Finally, PlayStation(R)2 Worldwide Shipments Reach 30 Million Units offers today's hype-check.

Console Reviews

• Final Fantasy X (PS2) on TVG.
• Max Payne (Xbox) on GDXbox.com.
• Resident Evil (GameCube) on Gamezilla.
• Spider-Man: the Movie (PS2) on Game Revolution.
• Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader (GameCube) on EuroGamer.