Microsoft Downscales Xbox One 2013 Launch to 13 Markets

joshuaboy · August 2013

Much of Europe will now be waiting until 2014 for the Xbox One.

Microsoft will launch the Xbox One in only 13 markets around the world later this year, and not 21 as it had announced at this year's E3.

Those 13 still include major markets like the United States and United Kingdom, as well as Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Spain, and New Zealand. These countries will see the Xbox One released in November.

Other countries that had expected to see the One this year will instead be getting it "as soon as possible in 2014," including Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and Switzerland. It was previously confirmed that Japan wouldn't see the console until next year.

The original plan to launch in 21 markets was described as "an aggressive goal" in a message posted online by the Xbox Leadership Team today. "While we wish we could launch Xbox One simultaneously in these markets, there are many factors that determine the timing of specific market launches," the statement explains. "This includes work to localize the Xbox One dash, incorporate additional voice and languages, and build partnerships to bring apps and meaningful local content to each country.

"We understand this will be disappointing news for our fans in the impacted countries, and we are doing everything we can to bring Xbox One to you as soon as possible next year."

In order to make up for the delay, those who have already pre-ordered the Day One edition of the system in affected countries will receive a free pack-in game with their console, though just what game this will be was not identified.

Stay tuned to IGN for all the latest on the Xbox One launch, and be sure to keep an eye on our ongoing Ask Microsoft Anything series that continues to deliver the answers to your Xbox One-related questions.

focus · August 2013

joshuaboy wrote: »

Microsoft will launch the Xbox One in only 13 markets around the world later this year, and not 21 as it had announced at this year's E3.

Those 13 still include major markets like the United States and United Kingdom, as well as Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Spain, and New Zealand. These countries will see the Xbox One released in November.

Phew. Close one.