Rumor has it that Microsoft is on the cusp of shipping a sub $200 Xbox, which would be the second time the popular game console has enjoyed a price drop amidst heavy sales, problematic “red circles” and heavy competition from the Nintendo Wii and Sony Playstation 3 platforms.
Last month, Microsoft lowered the price of the 20GB Xbox to just under $300. Now, there’s talk that a 360 with no hard drive could go as low as $199, 60GB models doing down to the $299 price point and the 160GB Elite Model going for a very affordable $399. If true, however, game fans may balk at the Elite model considering for a similar price, they can get a Blu-ray DVD drive with the Playstation 3, a convenience that seems to be effecting the Blu-ray player market as well.
But such a move could also trigger a price war with the competition platforms as the sub $200 price point is believed to be the “sweet spot” for mass market appeal and could mean a lucrative Christmas as lower income families would suddenly find they can afford it.
But since Microsoft hasn’t commented on the rumor and considering its recent price cut, it’s unlikely that the story is accurate for it’s September shipping date. However, with Christmas right around the corner, it could be that the model could make it into stores in time for Black Friday.
Only Time will tell.
Hat Tip – C’Net