99 Sleeps to go, only 99 sleeps...

Auckland, November 22, 2005 - It’s only 99 sleeps until New Zealanders can get their hands on the world’s most powerful games console, the Xbox 360.

Microsoft today announced that two versions of the console will go on sale from 12:01am on March 2nd, 2006. Consumers will be able to choose from the Xbox 360 at RRP$719.95* and the Xbox 360 Core System at RRP$549.95*.

“Amazingly realistic gaming experiences are now within our reach,” said David McLean, Regional Director, Entertainment and Devices Division, Microsoft Australia and New Zealand.

“Xbox 360 ushers in a whole new generation of gaming. Game characters and environments are just like the real world or as fantastic as the imagination can dream up. The New Zealand lounge room has not seen richer or more detailed games.”

Xbox 360 is the first console that lets gamers enjoy the freedom of wireless gaming, as standard. The Xbox 360 offer will include the console, 20GB hard drive, media remote, wireless controller, component high-definition cable and Ethernet cable. Xbox 360 Core System delivers the same powerful gaming as Xbox 360, but starts with the basics and lets you expand at your own pace. The Xbox Core system includes the console, composite AV cable and wired controller.

Both packages come with a complimentary Silver subscription to the world’s leading online gaming service Xbox Live, which provides gamers new ways to compete and hone their skills.

There are currently more than 200 games being developed for the Xbox 360, with 18 titles now launched in the United States and other markets. A full list of titles available on New Zealand launch will be available in 2006.

A wide range of Xbox 360 accessories will be available on launch. The current list includes:

· Wireless (RRP$89.95*) and wired (RRP$69.95*) controllers

· Play charge cable (RRP$39.95*)

· Rechargeable battery pack and cradle (RRP$59.95*)

· Battery pack (RRP$24.95*)

· 20Gb hard drive (RRP$189.95*)

· 64MB Memory unit (RRP$59.95*)

· Wireless networking adaptor (RRP$189.95*)

· VGA cable (RRP$59.95*)

· Advanced AV pack (RRP$44.95*)

· High Definition AV pack (RRP$59.95*)

· Headset (RRP$59.95*)

· Faceplate (RRP$34.95*)

· Universal Media Remote (RRP$59.95*)


Xbox 360 consoles, games and accessories will be available from leading retail outlets.

Hhhhmmmmm, better start saving hard!