Microsoft has revealed that its new XBox One games console will carry an “expensive” price tag of over £400 when it is launched in November.
At the E3 electronic entertainment trade show in Los Angeles, the US firm announced that its latest piece of hardware will set gamers back £429.
It came just hours before Microsoft’s rival Sony raised the curtain on its new PlayStation 4, pushing the “next-gen console wars” between both tech giants to fever pitch.
Microsoft’s presentation saw the unveiling of XBox One games, with a mix of legendary franchises such as Metal Gear Solid and Halo together with a clutch of new titles.
It also introduced new features such as Twitch, which will allow players to broadcast their gaming sessions live online.
Video games expert Daniel Krupa, who writes for entertainment website IGN, said: “At £429, the Xbox One will be an expensive investment when it launches in November but Microsoft’s wide array of games was a clear statement of intent for those who worried it might focus too heavily on the entertainment features.
“They have significantly invested in a wide range of gaming experiences, from triple-A blockbusters to quieter indie titles, and games for kids.
“From what we’ve seen so far, both Microsoft and Sony want to make next-gen gaming a more social experience, even allowing you to broadcast your gaming session live to the internet.
“The price is high, but the Xbox One right now has bags of functionality and promise. All eyes are now on Sony to see what they have up their sleeves for round two.”
The XBox One, described as an “all-in-one system” for games, live television, films and music, was first unveiled at Microsoft’s US headquarters in Redmond, Washington, last month.
It incorporates a blu-ray drive, the use of video calling service Skype, and an upgraded Kinect camera which allows the device to better analyse body movements.