Bboid on 16 November 2008
It depends on what you mean by beat. In raw numbers, no. Microsoft will edge out a slight victory as it appears they are pushing for a much larger media/promotion blitz this holiday season. Paired with the shrinking wallets of consumers they will opt for the cheaper system. They both have identical libraries, relatively speaking(each top exclusiveof each console has a competeing game just as good). I am personally expecting much larger numbers for MSFT, especially the week of black friday(where are the ps3 bundle specials???)
Now, IMO, if the total # of consoles sold are within 5% of each other it is a virtual tie. It isnt a "clear" win. Does look for a close race to the end of the year however.
