Xbox 360 Reaches 8 Million In Europe

Microsoft says that Xbox 360's 2008 Christmas sales doubled in Europe over the same period in 2007, marking the console's most successful season yet in the region. According to the company, this brings Xbox 360's userbase to eight million in the EMEA territories (Europe, the Middle East and Africa), and gives the console a one million-unit lead over the PlayStation 3 there. "Christmas 2008 was a resounding success for Xbox 360," says Chris Lewis, EMEA regional VP for Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business. "2008 saw us grow faster than any of our competitors and we over-achieved in sales during the crucial Christmas selling period." Microsoft expects this level of growth to continue in 2009 thanks to its reduced price points, its publisher relationships and retail partnerships. "As we move into 2009 and an uncertain economic climate, we continue to be committed to offering the right blend of gaming and entertainment experiences at the right price," Lewis says.