In the hardware wars, console makers typically fight fire with fire. When Sony announced both the PS3 Slim and a price cut to $299 at Gamescom in Germany yesterday, many assumed that Microsoft would naturally take the stage today and either follow suit or even undercut Sony's price move. Neither happened. Xbox 360 pricing across all models remains unchanged for now.
Despite a persistent rumor that the Elite model of the Xbox 360 would be slashed to $299, MCV reports that the delayed price drop can be attributed to the number of existing Xbox 360 consoles currently in retail. Only once some of these consoles have been sold and the supply drops will Microsoft makes its play to reduce the price and potentially roll out a new model that could replace the Pro model, which is being phased out.
The PS3 Slim and price cut are certainly designed to goose sales of the platform, which consistently chart below the Xbox 360 and Wii. Perhaps Microsoft will take a wait-and-see approach here and determine if the new PS3 model and price jumpstart sales. If Sony moves up, Microsoft could feel forced to quickly retaliate with its own cut and/or new Xbox 360 model.
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Despite a persistent rumor that the Elite model of the Xbox 360 would be slashed to $299, MCV reports that the delayed price drop can be attributed to the number of existing Xbox 360 consoles currently in retail. Only once some of these consoles have been sold and the supply drops will Microsoft makes its play to reduce the price and potentially roll out a new model that could replace the Pro model, which is being phased out.
The PS3 Slim and price cut are certainly designed to goose sales of the platform, which consistently chart below the Xbox 360 and Wii. Perhaps Microsoft will take a wait-and-see approach here and determine if the new PS3 model and price jumpstart sales. If Sony moves up, Microsoft could feel forced to quickly retaliate with its own cut and/or new Xbox 360 model.
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