If you keep up with the Japanese game scene, you're no doubt aware of the dismal performance of the Xbox 360 across the Pacific following its launch on 12/10. Yet despite low software and hardware sales, Microsoft has continued to paint a pretty picture of the launch, with Peter Moore having even referring to it as "solid."
Microsoft's Xbox 360 Japanese chief Yoshihiro Maruyama is a bit more critical about the launch than his US-based boss. "It was more difficult than we imagined," Maruyama admits in an interview with Japan's Weekly Famitsu. He points to the lack of promised titles at launch as one of the reasons for the system's slow start. "Development tools were a bit late," he adds, noting that "from here, we're going to have to strengthen our technical support for developers."
Maruyama adds that the 360 had problems outside of software. "There have been many harsh opinions about our promotions," he admits, noting, as an example, that consumers didn't understand the meaning of "High Def." In the Japanese Xbox 360 commercials and advertisements, Microsoft used the word "High-Def" as is, but written in Japanese characters, as opposed to using the actual kanji combination that indicates a high definition image. It's somewhat like taking a Japanese word, spelling it in English, and expecting people to understand the meaning of the word (although in Microsoft's defense, it should be noted that the term "High Def" has been used previously in this way, and the Japanese actually seem used to the practice).
Despite the slow start, Maruyama doesn't seem too down on the Xbox 360's future. "Our fundamental strategy remains unchanged," he states in reference to Microsoft's plans for the system in Japan. "Games are the key to conveying the appeal of the Xbox 360 to users. We believe that we must release interesting titles on a continual basis."
Maruyama gives the expected mention to the regulars, including Ninety-Nine Nights (set for Spring in Japan) and Blue Dragon (set for the end of the year in Japan), but also adds,
"We have many unannounced titles."
Last year, prior to the Xbox 360's official unveiling at E3, Microsoft invited the Japanese press to a press conference for an early glimpse at a few titles. Maruyama hopes to hold a similar conference in Japan some time in the spring.
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