The Xbox One will go head-to-head with the PlayStation 4 when it releases later on this year, and thanks to some confirmation straight from Redmond, we now know exactly where the forthcoming Microsoft console will be launching initially. Unfortunately, the company’s claim that the Xbox One would be releasing in 21 countries from the get-go was actually a bit of an ambitious target, and today, it has emerged that only an initial 13 markets will see the third-generation Xbox.
The reason for cutting the number so drastically, according to Microsoft is to ensure that “customers get the best Xbox One experience the first day it is available.” The slight change of direction means that when the Xbox One does hit the retail market in November, some of the so-called second-tier countries will be temporarily cold-shouldered.
Still, if you live in the following countries:
- Australia
- Austria
- Brazil
- Canada
- France
- Germany
- Ireland
- Italy
- Mexico
- Spain
- United Kingdom
- United States
- New Zealand
Then your Xbox One ambitions are very much alive and you’ll get your console in 2013, but the poor folks of:
- Belgium
- Denmark
- Finland
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Russia
- Sweden
- Switzerland
The you will have to wait until 2014.
Naturally, Microsoft remains “committed” to delivering the Xbox One to those cut from the initial list, but the news will surely come as a bit of a disappointment to those hoping to get their fill in time for the busy holiday season.
The note over on Xbox.com goes on to mention the amount of work Microsoft will be putting in to ensure that consumers can enjoy the very best experience possible, and as something of a consolation, those having preordered the Xbox One Day One system hitherto will be the recipients of a “pack-in game” when the console finally does hit their market.
Although the free game won’t perhaps repent for the sour taste left in the mouth of the avid, loyal Xbox One fan, these kinds of unforeseen delays and alterations are frequent when a company gets carried away amid the excitement and expectation behind a new release. Hopefully, Microsoft can deliver on the promises it has made today, and avoid any further delays and disappointment as we edge ever closer to that November drop.
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