Following intense speculation Microsoft UK have finally announced the Xbox 360 price point. The basic console is £209.99 while the HD-equipped "premium" model is £279.99. But Microsoft is gambling by splitting its market.
By having a dual price point the company risks creating a two-tier 360 ownership that will make it harder for developers to properly know who to target when adding new features. This is especially dangerous when you consider the emphasis Microsoft has placed on Live/online gaming for 360.
Also, optional hardware add-ons have rarely worked in the gaming market.
The £279.99 model includes:
-- Xbox 360 console (with, ahem, "signature metallic detailing on the console itself")
-- 20 GB and detachable hard drive (20 GB)
-- Xbox 360 Wireless Controller
-- Xbox 360 Faceplate
-- Xbox 360 Headset
-- Xbox 360 Component HD-AV Cable
-- Xbox Live Silver membership
-- A bonus Media Remote that lets you access your content on your PC.
The standard model includes the console, wired controller, faceplate and standard AV cable.
The Xbox 360 will launch "before Christmas".
So £280 then? It's a lot of cash, but the core gaming market will pay up and it gives MS scope for a price drop when the PS3 launches.
But how punters react to the two price points will be very interesting indeed. Will the hard drive be enough of an incentive to pay extra?
