Xbox 360 pricing confirmed!

As expected, Microsoft have just revealed launch pricing for Xbox 360, and we are pleasantly surprised to be able to bring good news, to UK gamers at least.

As we reported earlier today, Microsoft have confirmed US$299 and US$399 packs, but those concerned of UK gamers suffering once again from Rip-Off Britain syndrome can rest easy. The UK street prices will be £209.99 for the Core System and £279.99 for the premium bundle pack

For gamers who want the ultimate experience (and the best value) right out of the box, Microsoft will offer the £279.99 Xbox 360 console. This premium edition - distinguished by signature metallic detailing on the console itself - comes fully loaded for the ultimate gaming experience, with components and accessories that would cost over £100 if sold separately.

For £279.99, the Premium Edition will come with:

• 20GB detachable hard drive
• Wireless Controller
• Headset
• Component HD-AV Cable
• Xbox Live Silver membership
• Bonus Media Remote compatible with Media Centre PCs too

For £209.99, the Core System bundle consists of the console, a wired controller and a standard AV cable only - enough to get you gaming.

Also announced is a wealth of Accessories. Here is the list, direct from Microsoft PR:

• Xbox 360 Hard Drive (20 GB). 20 GB and detachable, the hard drive allows gamers to store their games, music, downloaded trailers, levels, demos and community-created content from Xbox Live Marketplace and more. ERP £69.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 Memory Unit (64 MB). Easily portable, this lets gamers save games, in-game achievements and unique gamer profiles for quick and easy access on the go. ERP £22.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. The same hassle-free high-performance precision wireless gaming that comes with the premium edition features the Xbox Guide Button for quick access to digital movies, music and games libraries as well as a range and battery life of up to 30 feet and 30 hours of life on two AA batteries. ERP £32.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 Play & Charge Kit. This allows plug and play for high-performance, precision wireless gaming with the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. Gamers will be given ample warning when the end of battery life is nearing so they can connect the Play & Charge cable for uninterrupted play. ERP £14.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 rechargeable battery pack. This provides up to 25 hours of gameplay for wireless gaming fun. ERP £9.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter. With this, gamers can chat with friends and play games via Xbox Live, as well as stream videos and music to Xbox 360 from a Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005-based PC, all without the clutter of wires. ERP £59.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 Headset. This heightens the Xbox Live experience by letting gamers strategise withteam-mates or trade banter with opponents while playing games. ERP £14.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote. Sold as an accessory, this integrated control centre for the entire digital experience lets consumers play DVDs, movies and music, as well as control a TV and their Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005-based PC controls with a single controller. ERP £19.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 SCART AV Cable. This cable provides optimal audio and video signal transfer for SCART connection ERP £17.99
  
  
• Xbox 360 VGA HD AV Cable. Gamers can experience high-definition gaming on flat-panel TV or VGA monitors. This cable provides optimal audio and video signal transfer. ERP £19.99

Microsoft did not reveal an exact street date, but it is widely expected to hit shelves on 24th November. That's a Thursday, if you need to book the day off work.

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