Whenever I do one of my “best of” or “top lists” features here on U360, the feedback is always great.  My latest article about Xbox.com’s Super MVP feature led to some interesting emails with questions about the program.  I figured I would become Deacon, the Mythbuster, for a minute to give you all yet another great read.  (because I love you all so)

XMVPs are paid by Microsoft to spread Xbox love across the interwebs - Although I could use more money with the pay increase, the truth is that this is a myth.  We’re not employees of Microsoft so we don’t get to collect a check.  There are former XMVPs that have ended up gaining employment within Microsoft but that’s a different animal.  Being selected doesn’t bring any bacon home to daddy.

XMVPs can’t say anything bad about Microsoft products - This of course is another myth believed about Xbox MVPs.  In fact, I’m going to prove that myth wrong right now.  DRM sucks on the Xbox 360!  See…it’s not true.  Contrary to popular opinion, there are no off-limit subjects.  Many of the things that play a part in selection revolve around having a strong, unbiased opinion within the community.  The type of opinions are up to each XMVP individually to convey be they of the light side of the force or the dark side.  It’s a choice made by each.

XMVPs are just stupid little nerds still living with their parents - Come on.  How do you make the list of Top 10 Cute Boys in Gaming Journalism by being a nerd trapped at your parent’s house?  There’s also an 18-year old age requirement in play that would limit the amount of XMVPs stuck at home.  Not that there’s anything wrong with it, but it’s just not something that’s the norm.  If you haven’t guessed, this is also a myth.

You have to have a blog, a website or a podcast to be an XMVP - While it may seem that way, there are no rules that say you can only be an Xbox MVP if you maintain some sort of interweb presence.  There are dozens of XMVPs and not all of them host a show or blog about the latest things in the community.  Does doing more in the community by way of blog, podcast or some other means help?  Ofcourse it does but it’s not a requirement.  Chalk this up as another myth.

XMVPs get free Xbox Live subscriptions and free consoles - Some of these myths I wish were true but they’re really just wishful thinking.  Let it be known though that I’m an advocate to implement this!  I’d actually like to be the first to suggest this be included as a perk with the selection.  It only makes sense to make sure your vessel of Xbox love is properly equipped.  As it stands right now, however, free subscriptions to Xbox Live and free consoles aren’t a part of the deal.

XMVPs are permanent members of the program - Myth.  The award period of an Xbox MVP only lasts one year.  If you see an XMVP for more than a year, it’s because they’ve done something equally as awesome as they did to gain the first award and were selected again.  Just take me for example.  I’ve been totally awesome for 2 years now but my awesomeness may run out in October and I’ll be super-power disabled returning to mere civilian status.  Holy Cartridge Belt Deacon.  Yeah, the thought is madness!