Muted Xbox 360 Launch in Japan as Shortages Continue

Microsoft has launched its Xbox 360 games console in Japan to what seems like a more subdued response than it received in Europe and North America. Queues formed for its main launch event in Tokyo but early sales were reported to be slower than at other launches.

Japan’s games market is traditionally dominated by Sony and Nintendo. The country is the biggest market for console games, after the US.

BBC - Muted hello for Xbox 360 in Japan

The muted affiliation of Japanese towards Xbox 360 can be gauged from the statement by Kentaro Okamoto, one of first few to purchase the Xbox 360. Says Kentaro in a firm tone, "it’s not going to be a big hit in Japan." According to him, a majority of the Japanese customers prefer consoles of either Sony or Nintendo."

EarthTimes - Japan unenthusiastic about Xbox 360

In the meantime, Xbox 360 shortages continue in North America and Europe, though Microsoft insists it continues to ship consoles to retail outlets. For many consumers, the only recourse seems to be ponying up two to three times the retail price of an Xbox 360 to grab one from online auction house eBay. Microsoft tells me the console will be widely available by January or February.

WindowsITPro - Xbox 360 Launches in Japan as Shortages Continue