According to anecdotal reports emanating from the US, the Xbox 360 is so advanced that it rebels against the very environment that tries to contain it. Many people have been excited to see the new machine imprisoned in pods at Walmart stores, but their glee soon turns to disappointment when they realise the consoles are never switched on.

The reason is - apparently - because the entertainment system somehow interferes with the handheld scanners used at the stores. So it’s a sort of double-edged sword – if you like the 360 after playing it, you can’t buy it; or you can buy it, you just can’t try it first. Here in England, pods with new consoles in them never seem to work anyway: what’s all that about?

American readers, does your Walmart have functioning Xbox 360s in it? Jump in your 5.0 and get over there and look. Stop at the ‘Drive Thru’ on the way if you like. Then report back here!