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250GB Xbox 360 hard drive now available for $129.99
It's been available in Japan for a little while now, and it looks folks over here will finally be able get a standalone 250GB hard drive to breath some new life into their Xbox 360 as well. First revealed on the Xbox 360 Dashboard, Microsoft has now come out and confirmed that the drive will cost $129.99, and says that it should be available at retailers starting today (although Amazon is only listing an in-stock date of March 28th). And, yes, it does come with a transfer cable -- that's it next to the drive in the image above.
Standalone Xbox 250GB HDD confirmed by Dashboard [update]
While Microsoft may have stated up, down and sidesaddle that the 250GB version of its Xbox 360 HDD would remain exclusive to special console bundles (e.g., Modern Warfare 2 and Splinter Cell: Conviction), it would appear that the particular drive will arrive as a standalone accessory sometime soon. As spotted by eagle-eyed Joystiq reader Rodney in the Spotlight section of the Xbox 360 Dashboard (pictured above), the accessory should be available at "participating retailers" rather soon -- the ad's wording indicates that the HDD might already be on store shelves (as of this writing, Amazon has the product listed without a price). Though it's odd to see an official reveal through the Xbox Dashboard, we have been hearing rumblings about a standalone version of the 250GB HDD for quite some time -- listings even popped up on retail sites earlier this month bearing ... today's date! We've contacted Microsoft for pricing and release info, but until the West Coast wakes up, we've got this thrilling hi-res gallery of the Dashboard advertisement for you below. [Update: We've just gotten official word from Microsoft that the 250 GB HDD retails for $129.99 and should be available today.] %Gallery-88789% [Thanks Rodney!]
GameStop lists standalone Xbox 360 250GB hard drive [update]
GameStop has listed a 250 GB Xbox 360 hard drive for sale, priced at $130 and scheduled to release on March 23. When reached for comment, Microsoft declined to make a statement by the time of this posting. Checking with GameStop, the retailer wouldn't confirm the product either, but did tell us that the page featuring the 250GB drive "is not an error." Microsoft had previously stated, like, only two weeks ago, that it planned to keep the larger drives tied to bundles. Xbox 360 and Xbox Live Product Manager Aaron Greenberg also told us at the time, "We're always evaluating." Clearly. Update 1: GameStop has removed the listing. Additionally, tipster Matt V. (thanks dude!) reports that, on March 9, Amazon also briefly listed the 250GB drive dated for March 23 -- for only $59.99! Though the likely erroneous offer has since been removed from the online retailer, Matt says his order is still active and that Amazon has emailed him with a new estimated ship date of April 10. The plot thickens ... Update 2: As of March 22, tipster Matt's order has been canceled by Amazon, but the retailer does suggest that an "alternate" item has been listed. [Thanks, Patrick]
Splinter Cell: Conviction Xbox 360 bundle coming this April
click for more top-secret images As was foretold, Microsoft has announced a special Splinter Cell: Conviction Xbox 360 bundle set to arrive this April in North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The bundle will retail for $399 and will include two controllers, a standard edition copy of Splinter Cell: Conviction and a 250GB hard drive. We should remind readers that, unlike the one offered in the Final Fantasy XIII bundle, the second controller will actually be useful in Splinter Cell: Conviction, thanks to its split-screen co-op modes. Check out hi-res images of the bundle in the gallery below. %Gallery-86914%
PS3's Torne DVR launching in Japan March 18
If you want to pick up the Torne PS3 DVR unit, March 18 is the day to do that. If you're buying a PS3 for the first time and hoping to get the bundle, you should know that the package (which includes a PS3 with a 250GB hard drive and the Torne unit for ¥42,800 or $466.52) will be available in "limited quantities." You should also know that this is designed for Japanese terrestrial TV signals, and isn't likely to work outside of that country. On Saturdays throughout February and early March, Sony will hold demonstrations of the Torne device in electronics stores in Tokyo and Osaka, as well as Sony's own Ginza Sony Building.
Interview: Aaron Greenberg talks Xbox 1 Live shutdown, hard drives, and Games on Demand
If you thought the jam-packed Xbox lineup on display at the X10 event was exciting for you, imagine being one of the people in charge of it. Microsoft's Aaron Greenberg got to watch reactions to the lineup at the event all day -- except, of course, for the time he took out to speak to us about the crowded game schedule, Project Natal, and more. Greenberg remained genial even when faced with familiar questions about the ramifications of the removal of Xbox 1 Live support, and with random, odd questions generated from Joystiq's interview brainstorming session, such as: Joystiq: Can you make Kudo in Kodu? Aaron Greenberg: What? I don't know. Don't worry about it. Does not compute.
Greenberg: No plans for 250GB Xbox hard drive outside of bundles
If you've been downloading demos and premium themes at a furious pace in anticipation of an upcoming 250GB hard drive for Xbox 360, you may want to rethink your data footprint. Speaking to Joystiq yesterday at X10, Xbox 360 and Xbox Live Product Manager Aaron Greenberg told us that the 250GB hard drive is likely to remain exclusive to limited-edition bundles. "We did it with the Modern Warfare bundle, which, as people know, was a huge success, completely sold out," he reminded us. "We're excited to bring it back with the limited edition Final Fantasy bundle." Greenberg said that the limited nature of the bigger drive is "part of what makes it special." Greenberg also mentioned that much of the Xbox 360's functionality, like Netflix, Facebook, and Twitter, and even the Zune Video Marketplace, doesn't require storing big files on the hard drive. "That said, we understand that game demos, a lot of the game add-on content does take up space." "We're always evaluating," he said, "but for now we feel like the 120 is serving us very well as the standard offering, and then having the 250 as a limited edition is a good balance." Keep some space in your browser cache free for our full interview with Greenberg.
Final Fantasy XIII Special Edition Xbox 360 Bundle includes 250GB hard drive, will cost $399
Click to embiggen. Launching simultaneously with Final Fantasy XIII in the US is a limited edition 250GB Xbox 360 console. Included in the box is a copy of the game, two wireless controllers, a headset, a FF-branded hard drive, and "exclusive downloadable avatar items" -- perhaps something to go with your pet Chocobo. All of this will be packaged together for $399, according to Major Nelson. Microsoft is trying to make sure Final Fantasy fans from the PS2 generation will choose Xbox 360 as their console of choice. The carefully worded press release notes that this is "the only console outside of Japan to be bundled with the game." In other words, don't expect the limited edition PS3 to make its way Stateside. Ever. In addition, Microsoft also plans to release a Final Fantasy XIII faceplate designed by Tetsuya Nomura and not included with the special edition bundle. The press release doesn't explain exactly how to get one, only stating that a "very limited number" will be available "promotionally in fixed quantities across select retailers in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand." %Gallery-85272%
Xbox 360 120GB HDD discounted in the US too, again 'while supplies last'
After discovering that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has been discounted in Europe "while supplies last," Joystiq has now learned that the drive has been discounted in the United States as well. When asked if the European discount would make it overseas, a Microsoft representative informed Joystiq that the drive has been reduced to $129.99. Again, the rep noted that the discount will apply "while supplies last," which implies that the 120GB drive won't be around for much longer. When asked directly if the unit was being discontinued, the rep stated only that she couldn't comment. It would seem that several retailers haven't gotten the memo, as many still list the drive at a $149 price point (the $129 price is listed on GameStop's website, for what it's worth). Of course, the drive can also be found much cheaper than the new $129 price, though readers should be aware that there is a very healthy knock-off hard drive market out there. While Microsoft won't directly confirm that the 120GB is kaput, all signs are certainly pointing that way. The company has already announced that a 250GB standalone drive will be made available in Japan. With the price cut now effective in Europe and the US "while supplies last," it's likely only a matter of time before Microsoft announces the 250GB drive for other territories.
120GB Xbox 360 HDD discounted in Europe 'while supplies last'
According to Eurogamer, Microsoft has announced that the Xbox 360 120GB hard drive has now been discounted to €129.99 ($180) in Europe and £79.99 ($125) in the UK. Curiously, the Microsoft representative appended "while supplies last" to the announcement, implying that the 120GB won't be around for much longer. This news comes on the heels of a standalone 250GB hard drive being announced for Japan. When asked whether that drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft informed Joystiq that it had nothing to announce at the time. If the separate 250GB drive did become available elsewhere and the 120GB were discontinued, consumers would have to choose between 60GB and 250GB add-ons. As Microsoft's typical strategy has been to replace the lowest end of its hardware spectrum, it would make more sense to discontinue the 60GB drive instead. Then again, as we've learned time and again, sometimes that strategy can be typical Microsoft.
250GB Xbox 360 HDD headed to Japan in March [update]
Update: When asked whether the 250GB drive would release outside of Japan, Microsoft has informed Joystiq that it has "nothing to announce" at this time. Microsoft has announced (translation) that it will release a standalone 250GB hard drive in Japan later this year. The drive – which carries a price tag of ¥15,540 (~$170) – is set to be released on March 11. On the same day, the company will also be releasing the Wireless Controller Game Pack and the Xbox 360 Wireless N adapter. This will mark the first time that Microsoft has released the 250GB hard drive as a standalone product. Thus far, the 250GB model has only been available as part of certain bundles such as the Modern Warfare 2 bundle released in 2009. Previously, Microsoft's Albert Penello noted Microsoft didn't have any specific plans to release the 250GB drive by itself, though he did note the possibility. While this particular drive is currently slated only for Japan, it seems likely that other territories will follow. We've contacted Microsoft regarding any North American or European release plans and will update this post with any new info.
Xbox 360 Hard Drive accessory bumped to 250GB in Japan
On March 11th, Microsoft will kick out its 250GB external hard drive to the good people of Japan; notable, as the first time that this 250GB drive has been sold anywhere outside of a new console bundle. The slab of external magnetic storage is set to cost ¥15,540 or about $172 should it ever ship Stateside. Unfortunately, Microsoft isn't revealing its plans for that at the moment while conceding the need for more local storage for content such as software, TV shows, and movies downloaded from the Xbox Live Marketplace. In other words, you'll get your storage bump... someday.
Heavy Rain, God of War III PS3 bundles listed for Europe
If you're in Europe, you'll have the option to buy an even bigger, more expensive, but less crazy God of War III box than the "Ultimate Trilogy Edition." An Amazon.fr listing for a God of War III PS3 bundle has been spotted, complete with very believable image. According to Amazon, it'll be available March 17 for €349.95 (roughly $490) and will include the game and a 250GB PS3. A similar bundle will also be released for Heavy Rain on February 24 for the same price, according to Amazon France -- and wouldn't you know, the bundle box image is classier than the North American game box. There's also a supposed MAG bundle due out January 29, but Amazon just shows the bundle as a regular 250GB PS3 and a copy of MAG. [Via Kotaku; thanks francisco dang!]
Mass Effect 2 'super elite' 360 bundle bound for Australia only, EA says
EA has confirmed it will only be shipping its $600 AUD ($550 USD), 250GB HDD-equipped "super elite" Xbox 360 bundle (breath) to Australia, according to a report from VG247. "This is a local bundle deal that the [EA Australia] team has sorted," an EA representative explained. The bundle is said to contain two black wireless controllers (standard Microsoft issue) and a wired headset; a regular, non-fancy copy of Mass Effect 2; an Xbox 360 Elite (sans promotional artwork, unfortunately); and a 250GB HDD. Just like the Modern Warfare 2 "Super Elite" console, we imagine supplies will be limited -- to Australia, in this case. %Gallery-70022%
PSA: 250GB PS3 available now
Just a quick reminder to let everyone know that the 250GB PlayStation 3 is available now in North America. The package runs $349 and crams a console, 250GB hard drive, controller and composite AV cables into the box. As the more astute readers have no doubt realized, the only thing different from the 120GB model is the 250GB hard drive. Still, as Gaming Bits points out, that's more than twice the storage for an extra $50 over the $299 model. Of course, with Black Friday sales just a few weeks away, you might consider waiting to see what deals will be available before taking the plunge.
250GB PS3 spotted in Best Buy backroom, making trouble
It's not quite as delicious when Sony (in a rare move) has actually confirmed its console for a release to market, but just because we know the 250GB PS3 is landing in the US on November 3rd doesn't mean we can't derive any enjoyment at all by the fact that it's been spotted at a Best Buy in Houston, all primed for the shelves. Since the shipment's obviously already been made, we suppose we'll be seeing a few instances of early stocking of the console over the next couple of days, unless Best Buy has considerably cleaned up its act when it comes to launch dates -- doubtful! [Thanks, anonymous ]
250GB PlayStation 3 Slim coming to US November 3rd
It's no Uncharted 2 bundle (hello, Europe), but US gamers will indeed be getting their own 250GB PlayStation 3 Slim bundle, due to hit stores on Novvember 3rd for $349.99, just one Ulysses S. Grant more than the 120GB model. No other difference beyond the storage capacity, and of course you can always swap out the 2.5-inch SATA drive yourself with warranty kept intact. Holding out for some limited edition artwork or PS2 compatibility? Keep on dreaming.
Sony confirms standalone 250GB PS3 for US at $349
Sony's back to the two-SKU configuration with PS3 "Slim," today announcing that the 250GB model of the system previously announced for everywhere but the US will be coming to these shores on November 3. The machine will sell for $349, which is $50 more than the $299, 120GB model. Fifty bucks for an extra 100GB ain't too bad, considering Microsoft's hard disk pricing.There's still not a peep about whether we can expect any of the 250GB bundles meant for other territories, but we're activating full-on Pester Mode (target: SCEA) a quote we received from Sony reads, "Re: North American bundles, we don't have any plans to announce at this time." Reads to us like there are plans, just none the company wants to talk about right now.
Sony's 250GB Uncharted 2 PlayStation 3 Slim bundle on sale in Spain
See that there? That's a whole gaggle of 250GB Uncharted 2 PlayStation 3 Slim bundles ready and waiting for owners in a Spanish retailer. Of course, SCEA won't mention if this thing is ever coming to US soil, but hey, that's what importers are there for. Anyone managed to pick one up yet? Let us know in comments![Thanks, Alex]
Rumor: Tekken 6 also bundled with 250GB PS3 in Europe
There's a confusing variety of 250GB PlayStation 3 bundles available in different regions. Put simply, the following theorem appears to hold true: if there's a high-profile PS3 game on the way this year, there is also a PS3 bundle for it somewhere in the world. The latest potential candidate for a bundle: Tekken 6, as suggested by this image posted by Dutch site Nextgamer. It matches the look of the Need for Speed Shift bundle box posted by Engadget, except it includes a note about the hard drive size, which is omitted from the Shift box. Sony UK revealed a surprising lack of investment in its worldwide operations when it told CVG that "We're not doing that bundle but one of the territories might be." Even if it is real, you don't get an arcade stick with this bundle, so it seems less than ideal.
