REDMOND, Wash. - Oct. 14, 2002
- Microsoft Corp. today
announced that the Xbox video game system will become even more
irresistible to holiday shoppers beginning Oct. 15. For the low price of
$199.99*, consumers at official Xbox retailers in the United States can
get an Xbox system, including the new Xbox Controller S and two free
exclusive games - Sega GT 2002 and JSRF - Jet Set Radio Future - packed
into one box. The limited-time offer represents a savings of $100** and
is a great incentive for new customers to experience the gameplay,
graphics, sound and power available only on Xbox. With titles that
appeal to a broad audience, the offer is suitable for diverse gamers of
all ages.
"Millions of people have Xbox atop their holiday wish lists," said
John O'Rourke, director of Xbox sales and marketing at Microsoft. "With
this powerful holiday offer, the launch of the Xbox Live online game
service and more than 200 games to choose from this holiday season,
there's never been a better time to buy Xbox."
"Since Xbox launched nearly a year ago, we've been selling the system
and games at a rapid pace," said Pete Roithmayr, vice president of
merchandising for EB Games Online Inc. "The Xbox holiday offer is an
excellent value for the consumer and a strong sales driver for us."
With unbeatable graphics and sound, a built-in hard drive to store
music and shorten game load times, an Ethernet port for online gaming
with Xbox Live,*** a DVD drive for movie lovers,*** and more than 200
great games, Xbox was already a bargain. This special offer gives gamers
two stellar exclusive SEGA games - Sega GT 2002 and JSRF - Jet Set Radio
Future - at no additional cost. The holiday offer also includes the
Controller S, which is smaller than the original Xbox controller and
will be the new standard controller for all Xbox systems sold moving
forward. Current Xbox owners can purchase both games from major
retailers.
SEGA Unleashes Intense Xbox Games
Hard-core gamers and beginners alike will have fun playing the
all-new Xbox exclusive racing simulation game Sega GT 2002. The game
features 125 classic and modern cars, thousands of vehicle customization
options, a stunning virtual garage for trophy storage, and a
nostalgia-rich Chronicle Mode, where gamers can get behind the wheel of
classic cars from the '60s, '70s and '80s. Official Xbox Magazine
recently gave Sega GT 2002 a score of 9.1 out of 10, calling it "one of
the most polished and playable driving games for Xbox - or any other
system, for that matter."
JSRF - Jet Set Radio Future is a unique action adventure that
features extreme skating, extreme action and extreme style. A fun, edgy
game that offers 24 playable characters and a soundtrack featuring
Russell Simmons and the Latch Brothers, JSRF - Jet Set Radio Future
takes advantage of the power of Xbox with its four-player competitive
battles at 60 frames per second. The title launched on Xbox earlier this
year to tremendous accolades. According to GamePro Magazine, "To play
Jet Set Radio Future is a breathtaking experience. From the inimitable
graphics to the hypnotically addictive gameplay, it's captivating on
every level and a must-have for your Xbox library."
"SEGA's JSRF - Jet Set Radio Future and Sega GT 2002 have widespread
appeal and have been praised by media and gamers alike," said Charles
Bellfield, vice president of strategic planning and corporate affairs at
SEGA. "Demonstrating the true graphics power of Xbox, JSRF - Jet Set
Radio Future and Sega GT 2002 are the perfect games to complement Xbox
this holiday season."
* U.S. estimated retail price. Actual retail prices may vary.
** Based on MSRP. Actual retail prices may vary.
*** Xbox Live subscription and DVD Playback Kit sold separately.