New analysis on Microsoft's development of the Xbox 360 points to improper testing and rushed manufacturing behind nearly two million defective consoles.

A scathing analysis by journalist Dean Takahashi contends that Microsoft was fully aware of defects in its Xbox 360 console before launch.

Prior to the console's November 2005 release, Microsoft knowingly pushed manufacturing ahead despite glaring test failures. The drive to beat rivals Sony and Nintendo to market were behind the decision to ship the console in light of the problems.

"Everything Microsoft did was under time pressure," writes Takahashi. Microsoft began on Xbox 360 hardware development later than rival Sony, yet forced an early launch a full year ahead of PlayStation 3.

Takahashi goes as far as claiming, "The Xbox 360's defect problem will go down as one of the worst snafus in consumer electronics history."

Ironically enough, that hasn't stopped gamers from snatching up the console. Well over 20 million units have been snatched up since 2005. Declining sales against PlayStation 3 and Wii, however, have slowed reception. According to Takahashi, a cheaper, smaller version of the console will be sold next year.

By Tracy Erickson