Microsoft gives Xbox 360 a mulligan in Japan

You seldom get a second chance to make a good first impression, and game console launches are no exception. However, Microsoft is hoping the Xbox 360's one year head start has afforded them another opportunity to capture the mindset of Japanese gamers before the native heavyweights step into the ring.

At the end of June, Microsoft plans to relaunch the 360 in Japan, and it's easy to see why, given the current state of hardware sales in that market. The only platforms that the 360 is currently outselling are its predecessor and the original Game Boy Advance. There are no details regarding price reductions, special bundles, or new marketing campaigns for the 360, but more information is expected next week during a Microsoft press conference in Japan. Stay tuned.