Free Xbox LIVE entry for the Thanksgiving weekend

(All rights reserved - Microsoft Corporation)

The Xbox 360's online service, Xbox LIVE Gold, is to fling open its doors to all-comers over the Thanksgiving weekend, from November 25 to November 29.

That means Xbox 360 owners who haven't subscribed to the premium scheme will be able to access music videos, voice chat, Facebook functions and online multiplayer for their games.

North American users can also see how Xbox LIVE Gold links up with ESPN and Netflix , while in the UK and Ireland there is a chance to try out Sky TV's Sky Player on the console.

Call of Duty: Black Ops is also in on the action, with double the usual amount of experience points available to players who get involved over the holiday break.

The service usually costs $59, €59, or £39 per year, with monthly rates and other local currencies also available.

Nintendo's online service is free of charge for Wii and DS users, as is Sony's basic plan for the PlayStation 3 and PSP.

Sony now offer a PlayStation Plus option for PlayStation 3 that grants access to store discounts, game trials, and automatic game updates for $65, €49, or £39 per year.