Microsoft launched the Xbox One console in November last year, and since its launch, it has lagged behind its bitter rival, the Sony PlayStation 4. The console was available in several major markets, with a big exception — China. The company has faced issues with the launch of the Xbox One in China, especially after the country lifted the 14-year ban on consoles earlier this year. Despite the announcement, the launch of the Xbox One has seen setbacks, with the console finally hitting retail earlier this week.
After the poor response in Japan, it seems the things are apparently different in China. According to a new report, Microsoft and BesTV managed to sell almost 100,000 consoles at over 4,000 retail stores over the first few days. This shows there is a strong demand for consoles on Chinese shores, even after reports mentioned that Xbox One carries a higher price tag of 3,699 yuan (almost $600), which is comparatively higher than its retail price in the US.
The number of consoles sold isn’t extremely impressive, but good nonetheless, especially if you consider that many popular titles are not going to make their way to China. To be exact, the console launched with 10 titles, including Forza Motorsport 5, Kinect Sports Rivals, Powerstar Golf, Zoo Tycoon, Max: The Curse of Brotherhood, Dance Central Spotlight, Neverwinter Online, Rayman Legends, Trials Fusion, and the Chinese-developed Naughty Kitties.
The likes of Call of Duty, Destiny, and Halo won’t launch in the region due to several restrictions imposed by the government as they are trying to avoid games that promote violence. But this can always change.
It turns out Chinese gamers welcomed Xbox One with open hands. Sony’s PlayStation 4 is also expected to launch in China, but no definite launch details are available at the moment.
