As many people have stated microsoft is pushing the boat out in japan with games tailored specifically for that audience (blue dragon etc), but it still has a negative image based on the last xbox, poor marketing in that area and the fact most people construe it as being good for only FPS'.
The fact of the matter is, the biggest franchises in Japan are either exclusive to other consoles (FF, Mario, Zelda, KH etc), or are multi-platform (with the PS3 generally) and will be bought on the more familiar Sony console (Dynasty Warriors, Pro Evolution).
Japan took a small bite with Halo 3 which saw quite a large spike (in terms of average weekly sales), but this has died down pretty quickly. As has been stated before its a marathon, not a sprint, MS will keep slowly increasing their install base in japan, so the next console released over there will have a much more favourable reception.
Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned for Sega. - Jason Lee, Mallrats.
http://theaveragejoe.sportsblognet.com/ - Mainly American Football, snippets of Basketball, European Football and Hockey.
