We’d heard Blockbuster was launching a set-top box prior to the holidays, and here we are. The Blockbuster OnDemand service is powered by 2Wire’s new MediaPoint hardware. The box is “free” … should you choose to pre-pay for 25 Internet-delivered movies at a cost of $99. Additional rentals will start at $1.99 and Blockbuster promises many titles within 30 days of DVD release. Unlike Netflix’s strategy to provide subscribers with unlimited viewing and enable a variety of partner hardware, Blockbuster has started out on a sole platform with the more traditional pay-per-play model. Which isn’t neccessarily a bad thing if you’re looking for current Hollywood hits… something in short supply on Netflix’s Watch Instantly service. The Blockbuster OnDemand box kindly incorporates wireless connectivity, but video is described as only “DVD quality”. So, those in need of higher definition content will want to look elsewhere. While the Internet video streaming space is crowding, however it’s too early to count Blockbuster out as they’ll leverage their targeted retail channel to move units.