Microsoft's Xbox 360 hits Indian markets

New Delhi, Sep 24: Much awaited popular gaming sensation from Microsoft Corp has finally hit Indian markets with the launch of Xbox 360 here.

The company has signed Bollywood star Akshay Kumar and cricketer Yuvraj Singh as brand ambassadors for the promotion of the gaming console.

Two variants -- Xbox 360 Core System (Rs 19,990 + tax) and Xbox 360 System (Rs 23,990 + tax) -- of the console were launched yesterday.

''Xbox 360 is the most advanced games and entertainment system which gives a realistic cinematic games experience and brand new ways to play them,'' Mr Mohit Anand, Country Manager (India), Microsoft Entertainment and Devices Division (MEDD), said.

The company will launch a new title, Yuvraj Singh International Cricket 2007, which is specially created for India, in the beginning of 2007, Mr Peter Moore, Corporate Vice Prsident, Interactive Entertainment Business, MEDD, informed reporters.

''The cricket game has been conceptualised and designed in sync with the preferences of the Indian gamers,'' Mr Anand said.

Initially the company has introduced 20-25 titles but the numbers are planned to go up soon, he added. ''Microsoft will introduce more new titles that will enhance the overall gaming experience with the Xbox 360.'' The console will be available across Microsoft's network that contains 1,200 retailers in seven cities of the country, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Pune.

The Xbox 360 has already been launched in 25 countries across the world.

UNI