Xbox One buyers beware -- Microsoft is holding your money hostage [updated]
Yesterday, my colleague Alan Buckingham reported on the Xbox One availability and pricing. I wasn't sure if I wanted one but I thought it would be a good idea to pre-order. I have failed to pre-order consoles in the past with devastating results. Many Christmas holidays were ruined by the failure to secure the newest console (I know -- first world problems). And so, I decided to pre-order the Xbox One -- just in case.
I headed to the online Microsoft Store, with debit card in hand. I went to the pre-order page and started the process. I was shocked to find that Microsoft wanted me to pay the full $500 (plus tax) up front! Keep in mind, this console will not launch until November. Paying full price now, in June, is ludicrous. In the past, I had pre-ordered consoles by putting down a small deposit.
Microsoft announces Xbox One availability and pricing -- Will you buy one?
The next Xbox was a lightning rod of controversy between rumors and the official announcement (and even that came without key details). Today's E3 keynote address fills in the information we were waiting for. Microsoft took the stage at the world's gaming mecca to deliver important information such as pricing and availability, as well as the all-important games stuff.
The console maker refers to its new lineup of games as "blockbuster", though that is for consumers to decide. Unveiled games include Ryse: Son of Rome, Forza Motorsport 5, Dead Rising 3, Project Spark, Sunset Overdrive and Titanfall. The biggest related news, however, is the unveiling of "Halo Xbox One", the next chapter of the gaming franchise developed by 343 Industries, which launches in 2014.
You will be able to trade-in or resell Xbox One games, says Microsoft
Almost two weeks ago Microsoft unveiled its next generation console, the Xbox One. The unveiling did not disclose the pricing and launch date of the gaming system, nor whether it would be possible for Xbox One buyers to trade-in or resell used games.
We still don’t know the retail details, but we do have a clear idea about trading games thanks to an assurance from Larry Hyrb and an official confirmation from Microsoft.