Microsoft announced Wednesday it will launch the Xbox One gaming console in China this September, after forging a partnership with Chinese media company BesTV.
The console is expected to be launched September 23 and will cost Chinese gamers 3,699 RMB, around $600. The consoles will come with a free Xbox Live Gold subscription that lasts until March 2015 and a copy of Powerstar Golf and Neverwinter Online.
Apart from these games, the company will also launch 70 games, including popular titles such as Forza Motorsport 5, Zoo Tycoon, Max: The Curse of Brotherhood and Kinect Sports Rivals. Microsoft is working with Electronic Arts, Ubisoft and 2K to redesign these games to suit the Chinese market, as well as partnering with Chinese developers to build local games.
The Xbox will have thousands of hours TV content, including TV shows, movies and other items from BesTV New Media, a Chinese maker of set-top boxes, and Xbox Fitness workouts. Chinese gamers can take advantage of a Chinese-based interface with translated content and local payment options.
Microsoft has been working with BesTV to develop consoles in Shanghai's Free Trade Zone and is the first to manufacture and sell consoles in 14 years.
"We're honored that Xbox One is the first console approved for sale in China through the Shanghai Free Trade Zone," said Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft corporate vice-president of marketing for Devices and Studios. "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."
Other console makers, like Sony and Nintendo, are yet to announce launch plans for China.