The gaming world was taken back a little bit when Microsoft announced the disconinuation of Xbox Live later in the year for the original Xbox. While most 360 owners didn't mind, there were some first-generation Xbox owners who weren't too pleased. However, for die-hard Xbox owners who still want to game online, there are a few services out there to replace XBL and they happen to be free.

...for those of you who came here for the Xbox Live alternatives you can check them out below. And the best part about the following services is that they're all free...so you don't have to worry about being screwed out of anything if any of them decide to fold in under.

vortis via cinemablend.com »