Xboxist

Microsoft Hijack PS3 Launch

Our sister site, PS3Informer.com recently reported the European launch of the PS3. Whilst the UK launch appeared to be a success, other reports suggest that turnout was not as enthusiastic at certain launch sites across Europe. Most significant was Microsoft's attempts to hijack proceedings. BBC News Technology site reported how even at the best turnout at the London Virgin Oxford street launch, cheeky Microsoft gave out chairs to queuing PS3 fans with a web address of a site that welcomed Sony to the next generation. Who can argue with them, as Sony has taken its time in delivering the PS3, whereas the 360 has been available since 2005.

Similar antics were witnessed across Europe. In France, where the media outnumbered gaming fans on the temporary store boat Sony docked near the Eiffel Tower, Microsoft spoiled the show by driving its own 360 emblazoned boat up and down the Paris Seine near Sony's craft. Whilst in Berlin Germany, our friends at Kotaku reported that at a Saturn electronics branch, 50 gamers got a free PS3 after smashing their Xbox 360 by throwing it off a wall.

Smash and grab? Looks like the next generation console war as really begun.