Microsoft Replaces Xbox Head in Japan

While not directly attributing his departure to the Xbox 360's lackluster debut in Japan, Microsoft announced Thursday that Xbox general manager Yoshihiro Maruyama is being succeeded by Takashi Sensui. Sensui previously worked as director of marketing for the division, building relationships with game publishers.

"We acknowledge that achieving success in Japan will not come easily or quickly for Xbox," Sensui said in a statement. "But we are confident that because Xbox 360 is the most powerful video game and entertainment system, delivering the best content for Japanese gamers, enabled by the online capability of Xbox Live, we will earn more of their business moving forward."