MS wants EU to see 360 next to PS3

In an interview with Gamesindustry.biz, Microsoft's Neil Thompson said he wishes gamers in Europe could see a 360 right next to the PS3 this Christmas. That is, he wants consumers to finally be able to make direct comparisons, so that they can decide what they really want. According to Thompson, "Sometimes it's worse when you're fighting a myth, than when you're fighting reality." He's speaking to the much publicized capabilities of the PS3, including the Blu-ray drive. He seems confident that when consumers compare the consoles side by side, paying a premium for Blu-ray out of the box won't seem like such a rosy proposition -- of course he says this while noting that consumers can upgrade the 360 to HD DVD should they choose to do so. Thompson also takes time to throw a few unexpected jabs at Nintendo's upcoming Wii, claiming that it's not a competitor to the 360 and is in fact "a kids toy" -- innovative, but still a toy.

While Europeans won't be making any direct comparisons this holiday (and maybe not next March either), American consumers can start as early as next Friday. Will any of our 360 Fanboys be gunning for a PS3 next week? (It's okay, we won't judge you.)

[Via Xbox-Scene]