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Speaking to MCV, Lewis has admitted that Microsoft is not surprised that Sony has had to cancel plans for a simultaneous global launch.
“We know how challenging it is to pull off a global launch, so it’s not surprising that Sony has backed away from their previously announced launch plan due to the unproven technology they are trying to pack in to their console,” said Lewis.
Microsoft was praised for its global launch (not quite simultaneous, but close enough), however, hardware shortages were common place for the months following launch. Despite these problems the Xbox 360 is now in a strong position, and even if Sony had been able pull of a global launch in 2006, Thompson feels it would have had little affect on the Xbox 360.
“Europe remains a priority for us and that is why gamers have been able to experience Xbox 360 from day one and why we’re confident we’re going to have a great Christmas, regardless of what competitors are or are not in the market,” stated Lewis.
The likes of Gears of War, Viva Piñata, plus next-gen 2006 exclusives of Pro Evolution Soccer 6 and FIFA 2007 are some of the key titles for the holiday season, and would have remained that way even had the PS3 launched on November 17. In addition, the Xbox 360 will also be the only way in Europe to play next generation versions of Splinter Cell: Double Agent, Call of Duty 3, Tony Hawk’s Project 8 and Rainbow Six Vegas.
Microsoft is planning to release the external HD-DVD add-on, enabling Xbox 360 to embrace the world of high definition movies, which will almost certainly be the cheapest way to experience HD movies this year.
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