The New Japan 360 Plan

Gamespot lays out Microsoft's new plan for the 360 in Japan. They're not taking the initial cool reception for their console lying down. Initiatives include new games, an emphasis on the Live system, and updates on ongoing projects that appeal to Japanese gamers. From the article: "Taking time out from development work on a clutch of Xbox 360-exclusive RPGs, Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi gave a progress report on a number of projects underway at his Mistwalker development company. His first game, Blue Dragon, is on track for a 2006 release. Sakaguchi says the game is playable and his team is currently focused on game balance and presentation. Sakaguchi's second game, Lost Odyssey, is slated for a 2007 launch."

Comments

Re:Playing catch up

[Shadow Wrought]

Some points to consider about the Next-Gen war:

1. The 360 and PS3 are vying to have the best graphics and power for a console.

2. The Revolution is avoiding that route with a completely different market strategy.

3. Both iterations of the XBox have performed miserably in Japan.

4. Since the 360 was designed with an eye towards the Japanese market and MS has consistantly stated that the Japanese market is key to them, their lack of success is important.

5. Hence the story about their attempt to "re-"introduce the 360 to Japan

6. Which in turn spawns discussions about how the Next-Gen war will play out. Since GP's position is supported by the above points, it is actually ontopic as to how MS is going to fare.