Earlier this month, Microsoft slashed introduced a cheaper version of the Xbox One for $399, which comes without Kinect. The low priced console is set to hit the retail shelves starting June 9th, but it seems the demand is already decent for the Kinect-less version. Gamespot report they have seen strong interest from customers regarding the $399 Xbox One. The news comes from GameStop president Tony Bartel during a post-earnings financial call.
“I definitely think we’re already seeing in our stores with our reservation program as well as dialogue with PowerUp Rewards [members that] there’s a stronger demand as a result of the price drop. The good news for us is… we’ll sell a lot more units,” said Bartel.
He further said, “And that means there will be more [Xbox One] units out there to put software on.” It’s been over a week since Microsoft dropped the news about the new Xbox One pricing. It may be a little too early to talk about the effect of the new pricing strategy since the console is yet to hit retail. A better picture will be presented by the end of the year, when retailers, and even Microsoft, will report their earnings.
It’s not just Gamestop who think it’s a good move from the Redmond-based company, some popular game developers also feel this could increase Xbox One market penetration.
What do you think about the price cut? Are you planning to get the Xbox One without a Kinect? We’d love to hear about your thoughts.
