Report: Microsoft to Relaunch Xbox 360 in Japan
- April 03, 2006 17:28 PM PST
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Microsoft calls report of Japanese Xbox 360 relaunch "rumors and speculation"
In response to tepid sales, Microsoft will be relaunching the Xbox 360 in Japan this June, according to a report on German site Gamefront (as reported by GamesIndustry.biz).
The Gamefront story suggests that an upcoming Microsoft press conference in Japan -- scheduled for next week -- will be used to make the announcement of the relaunch.
UPDATE: A Microsoft representative refused to elaborate on the story, saying "we do not comment on rumor or speculation."
If true, the story could have serious ramifications for Microsoft. The Japanese launch of the Xbox 360 was an almost complete disaster for Microsoft -- the unit actually sold worse than the first Xbox, which came in well under Microsoft's modest expectations.
A relaunch, with more culturally appropriate games, could have a positive effect on the Xbox 360's sales in Japan. Since the console's launch last fall, the Xbox 360 has seen the release of more Japanese-friendly games, like Dead or Alive 4, Final Fantasy XI, and Ninety-Nine Nights could give the Xbox 360 a much-needed boost.
