XBOX 360 Wire

Console makers fighting over Europe?

EA corporate bigwig Gerhard Florin had something to say about Wii, PS3, and Xbox360 at a Technology Summit in Paris a few days ago.

“I believe the biggest fight will be in Europe…….Whoever wins the hardware war in Europe, most likely will be the overall winner.

I’m sure Microsoft understands that pretty well. Dismal sales numbers in Japan have alot to do with Nintendo and Sony being local companies, and on the flip side has led to moderate success in America (despite Wii nation growing everyday). With no console maker native to Europe, it would make sense that there would be less favorites and more objective consumers.

Microsoft definitely has its foot in the door across the pond, with 2 major elements I think will be crucial to staying #1. With a good percentage of Europeans already speaking English, XboxLive with America and Australia is already happening, mate. Even if competitors get a mass-market game online, I can’t understand what other players are saying, let alone cooperate in a deathmatch like Gears or GRAW. The second thing is the new office in Reading. Not just an American company anymore, Microsoft obviously saw this battlefront situation coming, and it looks like they’re prepared. With the $$$$ they spent on aquiring Rare and what they’ve invested in Lionhead and the other teams, they may be trying to instill some of that local pride the Japanese are all keen on dishing out.

Posted by Erick - May 18th, 2007 -