Microsoft introduces Xbox One
Hey guys!
The Xbox One is still around. Of course I knew this, but I’m not sure Microsoft knew this, because they are announcing a brand new system–the Xbox One! But this time it’s without the Kinect.
It’s actually the same thing they came out with last year, but without the fancy futuristic camera/all-seeing eye that they were certain would be the second coming of Christ. Because of that, it’s arguably a worse package than what came out last year. Maybe this is a smart move on Microsoft’s part though, as removing the Kinect from the package has allowed them to offer the new system at a lower price.
“Well that’s good,” you may think. Well yes, that is good. You will now be able to purchase a hi-tech gaming system for the fantastic price of $400. That’s amazing. It would be even more amazing if you couldn’t already buy a PS4 for that price, but it is what it is. And that is probably the most important part of the change.
Many argue that if not for the hefty price, the Xbox One would have rivaled the sales of the PS4 last year over the holidays. Of course we’ll never know for sure. People will buy the systems over this year’s holiday season as well, but the systems will have already been out for over a year, the Xbox One sans Kinect for over six months, and they will have lost the appeal of being brand new.
Now it looks like Microsoft has leveled the playing field, and the never-ending battle between Xbox One and PS4 continues. This is good for me–I love seeing the drama and complete ridiculousness of people over their favorite console.
One notable commenter on CNet referred to Microsoft as “Flacidsoft”. The creativity and ingenuity of some in this community is astounding.
On a more serious note, many argue that the Xbox One has a better lineup of games, and now that it has a lower price, will surely take over the PS4 in sales. Of course this is up for debate, as PS4 has more indie titles, like “Drifter” and “Apotheon”, and Xbox One focuses on the big names, like “Titanfall”. But even without the “better” lineup of games, PS4 has its advantages, like having a free online network and better hardware. Both systems have premium membership options that allow you to access free games and get discounts on certain titles.
They’re both amazing emblems of modern technology. It’s almost as if people have different preferences, and it doesn’t make one better than the other. Most people can recognize that. Unless they’re very brand loyal, in which case we get gems like “Flacidsoft”.
It looks like Microsoft will have to keep on its toes if it wants to continue being at the forefront of gaming technology, because Sony is really giving them a run for their money. There’s talk that maybe Microsoft will abandon the Xbox, as it’s not been as profitable as their other ventures, but I’m not so sure that will happen. It looks like Microsoft is at least trying to learn from their mistakes, and looking to keep their hold on the gaming industry.
Be amazing and game crazy,
Phaera
For next week’s post I bring you the future of grocery shopping.