The most recent major update to Xbox Live’s Dashboard, which happened in November, disabled a feature that some gamers immediately missed; the ability to boot directly to a game disc instead of bringing up the Xbox Live Dashboard.  That functionality will return in a new update, but it will come at a price; our “precious” Gamerzone information.

It’s a largely ignored feature on XBLA, but the Gamerzone entry allowed players to label themselves as “Casual” gamers (grown-ups who buy Madden every year), “Family” gamers (women and children), “Pro” gamers (hardcore gamers who, ironically, are often unemployed), or “Underground” gamers (EXX****XXTREE3333EEEME!1!1!!).  As of this week, the distinctions will disappear, as we all become listed under the “Money pump” zone that Microsoft has created.

I can’t imagine anyone really caring about losing their Gamer Zone label, but some players will be happy to get back their “Boot to Disc” option.  Hitting that A button one additional time can be very taxing.