http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=197219

 

After a week of rumours, Microsoft has officially cut the price of the Xbox 360 in Europe, bringing the hard drive-less Arcade console down to an astounding £129.99. The PS2 isn't much less than that...

From this Friday, September 19, the 60GB Core console will retail for £169.99 (down from £199) and the 120GB Elite will be on shelves for £229.99 (from £259), Microsoft has confirmed.

The reduction follows hot on the heels of similar slashes in North America and Japan.

Microsoft says the price reduction is part of its "ongoing strategy to open up the ultimate in high-definition gaming and entertainment to an even wider audience, with something for everyone." In other words, it wants to sell more consoles to girls.

"Xbox 360 has now sold over 20 million consoles worldwide and due to its unprecedented success, we are now able to pass on the rewards of that success to the consumer with a new retail pricing from £129.99", said MS UK regional boss Neil Thompson.

"With more games, more entertainment with Xbox LIVE and now even more value, we are looking forward to welcoming more customers into the leading Next Generation console, Xbox 360."

It can't be argued; a £129 price point moves the Xbox 360 into a huge mass-market position that even the £179.99 Wii doesn't have in pricing terms. But will it be enough to win back sales from the PS3 at Christmas?

Andy Robinson   ------------------------   Woot to you europeans!!!

This is a wonderful news for people in Europe.
360 will turn the tide in Europe market.

Whoa. So basically 230€ or less for the high end SKU? I just started seriously considering buying a 360 now, even though I've been pretty meh about it for a while now. o_O

*edit*

Apparently I don't know how to count. Forget I said that, please. =P