Microsoft and BesTV have announced a September 23 launch date for Xbox One in China. It'll be priced at ¥3,699 RMB, which equates to about $599.
For China this marks the first time a foreign console will release in the country since lifting its 14-year ban back in January.
“We’re honored that Xbox One is the first console approved for sale in China through the Shanghai Free Trade Zone,” said Microsoft Devices and Studios' corporate VP of Marketing Yusuf Mehdi. “We’re dedicated to earning millions of fans in China by working with BesTV to deliver an all in one games and entertainment experience starting September 23.”
Microsoft hasn't finalized its launch games yet, but the company does expect the day one offerings to include Forza Motorsport 5, Kinect Sports Rivals, Powerstar Golf, Zoo Tycoon, and Max: The Curse of Brotherhood, "among others." Of course, the catalog will also expand with the releases of Sunset Overdrive and Halo: The Master Chief Collection later this year. Games will have a suggested retail price ranging from 99 RMB to ¥249 RMB.
In addition to Microsoft Studios' titles, Microsoft notes that 12 of the world's largest developers including EA, Ubisoft and 2K are "working to bring their gaming favorites to China." Meanwhile, 13 of "china's best developers" are also working to bring new IP and games to Xbox One, starting with Neverwinter Online from Perfect World. Snail Games, NetEase, and Tencent were also mentioned.
“We’ve been working together with Microsoft for more than a year to prepare for the launch of Xbox One and our organizations share a vision for bringing entertainment and gaming innovation to our consumers,” added Zhang Dazhong, senior vice president of Shanghai Media Group and chairman of the board, E-Home Entertainment. “We are excited to start delivering on that promise and are committed to fostering China’s original game development.”
Sony's PS4 is also headed to China, but no release date has been announced.
