Microsoft has announced that it has delayed the launch of Xbox One in parts of Europe, potentially giving PlayStation 4 an early head start in the region.
Originally due out in Europe this year, a total of eight countries – including Russia, Belgium and the Netherlands – will now have to wait until 2014, albeit with a free game as compensation for the delay.
While the implications of postponing Xbox One’s launch in these territories are pretty obvious enough, it’s also worth remembering that Europe is a largely PlayStation-dominated region.
Traditionally, the Xbox brand has struggled to maintain momentum in PAL countries against its Sony-based rival, and thus the delay is sure to give PS4 a significant foothold in those regions when it hits Europe this holiday as planned.
On the flip side, it does potentially mean that Microsoft is able to secure more stock for major areas including the U.S., U.K. and the rest of Europe.
PS4 will go on sale for $399/£349, while Xbox One is set to retail for £499/£429.
Let us know your thoughts on the Xbox One’s partial delay in Europe, and whether you think it will give PS4 an advantage in the long run, in the comments section below.