14 DAY TRIAL // There's proof that the 20 GB version of the Xbox 360 console might be ready to depart from stores, being replaced by a 60 GB version of the gaming device. Apparently, an e-mail addressed by Microsoft to GameStop and BlockBuster was leaked; it details the way the new console will be introduced.
Here is what the e-mail reads, "With the introduction of the 60GB Pro console in July, we have research that suggests it is very important to have a 60GB stand alone Hard Drive to go along with it to allow the consumer a full range of choices and values. In late October/early November (exact date TBD but most likely last week in October or first week in November), we will ship the Xbox 360 60GB Hard Drive, tentatively called the Xbox 360 60GB LIVE Starter Pack".
As always, Microsoft has refused to confirm or to deny the leaked e-mail, citing its policy of not commenting on unsubstantiated rumors. But the company has again made it clear that it plans to announce some pretty interesting things at the upcoming E3, especially regarding the Xbox 360.
Microsoft needs to do something to make its console line more appealing to customers. For the first time since launch, the PlayStation 3 from Sony is consistently outselling the Xbox 360 in North America and the Nintendo Wii shows no signs of slowing down its pace. Even the release of GTA IV, with the promise of exclusive content for the Xbox 360 version of the game, failed to significantly improve sales for the console.
Introducing a new version of the gaming platform, with a bigger hard drive, while maintaining a competitive price, ideally that of the previous ones, might help boost gamers' interest. I guess we'll have to wait for E3 to begin in order to get some clear cut answers.