Asia Xbox 360 Elite coming

Philip Wong | Aug 02, 2007

Microsoft has officially announced the upcoming availability of its souped-up HD gaming console, the Xbox 360 Elite. Pitted squarely against the 60GB PlayStation 3, the new box will be going at an estimated S$799 (US$587.50) a piece. This is an interesting proposition which will give the Japanese's offerings a run for their money considering the Xbox's generous 120GB storage capacity and updated HDMI output.

Editors' note:

The Microsoft Asia regional representative has indicated that the company has no immediate plans to revise the HD-DVD addon's pricing.

There will also be a similar pre-order offered in Taiwan at NT$15,980 for an Elite bundled with a Sanyo electric shaver (hmm?) and copy of Blue Dragon. Now available at Taipei Computer Application Show 2007 from August 2 to 6

There were no further details on an Asia-wide launch at press time but this will be carried out progressively following the Singapore release.

The local package comprises a matt-black console, matching wireless controller, Xbox Live headset and HDMI cable. The accessories will also be sold separately, including a removable 120GB hard drive for owners of legacy models. Supplies are expected to reach Singapore retailers from August 13. If you can't wait to get your hands on one, head down to the World Cyber Games over at Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre hall 602 to pre-order. This will be available only from today till the end of the week.

Still undecided? Check out the following cheat sheet.

	Xbox 360 Elite	PlayStation 3
Storage capacity	120GB	60GB
Wireless networking	Optional via USB	Onboard WiFi-G
HD movie playback	Optional via HD-DVD	Onboard Blu-ray
Dolby Digital Plus/True-HD/DTS-HD surround sound support	N/A	Yes
Bundled HDMI cable	Yes	N/A
Online gaming	Subscription-based	Free of charge
HD disc-based titles (figures based on website catalog)	94 (excluding Live Arcade titles)	17
CNET rating	8.5	8.8