Xbox LIVE Gold is a premium membership that lets you play games with friends online. Gold membership includes all the features of Silver (below) plus additional benefits and features.
Multiplayer games: Invite your friends into a multiplayer match and compete against each other or play co-op through expansive adventures.
Marketplace: Gold members get early and exclusive access to select downloads, trailers, videos, and more.
TrueSkill matchmaking: For every ranked game you play, TrueSkill finds the best match for your skill level.
Parties:Invite a group of friends into an Xbox LIVE Party, then you can all join games and play and chat together.
Gamer feedback: Use the feedback system to select players you want to play with (or avoid) the next time you're online.
Xbox LIVE Gold cards can be purchased at retail stores for a one, three- or twelve-month membership. You can also subscribe online using your Xbox 360, or join now right here on Xbox.com.
Silver Membership
Xbox LIVE Silver is a free service that allows any Xbox 360 user with a broadband connection to get online and interact with the Xbox LIVE community.
Gamer profile: Showcase your online reputation and achievements for your friends to see.
Avatar: Share the customized Avatar that represents your online identity.
Friends list: Add other Xbox LIVE users to your friends list and chat using the headset or send text messages.
Marketplace: Download free content from Marketplace such as demos, trailers, music videos, dashboard themes, and lots more.
Microsoft Points: Redeem Microsoft Points (available at retail stores or through Xbox LIVE) for extra game content, Arcade games, movies and TV shows, independent videos, and more.
Gold Weekends: Look for special offers from Xbox LIVE that let you experience the excitement of multiplayer gaming free.
