Xbox One at last on sale in China, without Halo
On Monday, September 29, Xbox One went on sale in more than 4,000 retail outlets in 37 cities across mainland China. The country recently ended a 14-year ban on the sale of foreign-made game consoles, making Microsoft, Corp.’s Xbox One the first game console to go on sale there after the ban was lifted.
The launch and distribution of the console is handled by BesTV, a subsidiary of Shanghai Media Group and Microsoft’s partner in China.
“This milestone is significant for both our partnership with China and our global expansion plan. Every new market launch is unique and we’re grateful to our fans for their patience and enthusiasm,” said Phil Spencer, head of Xbox. “We will continue to work closely with our partner BesTV to bring exciting games, entertainment and app experiences to delight gamers across China.”
After initial delays the Xbox One, dubbed “China Day One”, went on sale with a meager 10 game titles available. China has to approve each title for release and they have very strict regulations regarding violent content in video games. The 10 approved titles include the likes of Forza 5, Dance Central: Spotlight, PowerStar Golf and Naughty Kitties (a Chinese exclusive at the moment) to name a few.
Popular titles such as Halo, Titanfall and Destiny are notably absent from the lineup. According to Microsoft and their partner, BesTV, they are working on a lineup of 70 additional games, but they will have to pass regulatory approval first of course.
Although fans lined up for the Xbox One, it is not yet known how many units were sold on opening day. Microsoft has also not said how many units it needs to sell in China in order to deem their entry into the market as a success. They do at least have a lead on rivals.
Image credit: Ricky Brigante
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