If Japan were the only battleground in the next-gen video console war, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 would already be dead in the water.The console’s sales in Japan have been notoriously sluggish and recent figures are no better, despite news of new high-def games coming, 1080p resolution updates and the coming of the HD-DVD drive in November. According to Punch Jump, consoles sales for the week fell in at 928 units in Japan. This means the system was beaten out by pretty much every other gaming machine going, including hand held models.
All of this has some industry analysts thinking it’s Wii and not the 360 that has Sony running scared on its home turf. A degree in quantum physics probably wasn’t necessary to figure that one out though.
Sony’s move to discount the PS3 in Japan only could have ramifications that travel farther. It’s possible the price cutting will alienate potential buyers in other regions as the console rolls out. But, in Japan, the move is likely solid.
And, as the battle for Japan seems to be lost, Microsoft is making good on earlier reports that it will stand by its first runs of the Xbox 360 console. The company will comp repairs for some units and issue refunds to customers who have already paid for repairs in some cases. This is a smart move not only for PR purposes, but also for gaining loyalty. I doubt it will help in Japan, but it might elsewhere.
Related:
Sony Gives U.S. PS3 Fans The Shaft
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Xbox 360 Warranty Extension Coming
Xbox Sales Numbers Bleak In Japan
Xbox 360 on discount already in Japan
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