After skipping 2004 without so much as a reason given, Microsoft's usually annual "X0" event is set to return with X05, to be held October 4 and 5 at an as-yet undisclosed location somewhere in Europe.

　　Starting in 2001 with the unveiling of European Xbox pricing and launch details at Pierre Cardin's bubble villa in Cannes, France, the "X0" events were used as platforms to make big announcements while schmoozing industry types with lavish PR efforts in exotic or unusual locations. X02 was held in a massive Spanish theme park, while X03 took place at an exclusive beach club in Juan-les-Pins, France.

　　Regarding the event, Chris Lewis, regional vice president for Xbox, Europe, Middle East, and Africa said, "We have a lot to say and even more to show people. Believe me, after X05, there will be no question that Xbox 360 is the next generation."

　　Don't think you'll need to wait until October for more details on the Xbox 360. Last week, Microsoft announced the Xbox Summit 2005, a Japanese event intended to give the console a rollout in that country on the scale of an E3 unveiling.