14 DAY TRIAL // We already knew that Microsoft is not too keen on Unix and Linux, as they are rival products, but banning them as keywords in the Xbox Live just doesn't seem right. The online service now disallows funny screen names like "Linuxrules", "Linux" or any other variations. Many bloggers have also reported that variations of the word "Unix" have had the same fate, receiving the following message: "Your motto contains inappropriate language. Please try again."
Unlike the PS3, that even allows gamers to install Linux, the Xbox 360 bears Microsoft's trademark anti-Linux features. Why would anyone feel offended by a motto like "Linuxrules"? What about an avatar featuring the Linux logo? Will that be banned too? We'll just have to wait and see what happens next in the Microsoft-Linux war, as the battleground has now moved to the virtual Xbox Live environment.
Most of the gamers will probably ignore this minor feature, but those with a strong sense of freedom will probably start criticizing Microsoft on official forums, for their decision. Such a keyword restriction can only mean one thing: Linux does rule, but the folks over at Microsoft will never admit it. Who knows, maybe we'll even find out that the famous Red Ring of Death was caused by the gamers who used "Linux"-based nicknames.
Whatever, Microsoft... If this solves your consoles' problems, we're just fine with your decision. I wonder what happens to the gamers who already use such keywords. Will they be banned or simply required to change their mottos? As long as the Xbox Live service provides us free demos, we're happy with it, mostly because we don't care about the whole Linux versus Windows affair. Let's just hope that they won't start banning people who use "Nintendo Wii is the best selling console and better than Xbox 360" as a motto...