During E3, Microsoft revealed the Xbox One would launch for $500 in November, initially to 21 different markets. In a blog post today, Microsoft called that lofty goal "aggressive," and has announced the Xbox One will only be available in 13 territories this November.

Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Spain, United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand will be the first launch territories for Xbox One and are unaffected by this news today. Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Switzerland, however, will receive the console "as soon as possible" in 2014.

If you live in one of these affected countries and have pre-ordered an Xbox One, Microsoft will toss in an unknown free game as penance for the delay. For more information, Microsoft suggests contacting your local retailer.

Here's the official statement:

"At E3, we announced that Xbox One would be available in 21 markets around the world at launch. This was an aggressive goal and the team has been working very hard to deliver Xbox One to as many markets as possible.

Our priority is ensuring our customers get the best Xbox One experience the first day it is available. To do that, and in order to meet demand, we have adjusted the number of markets that will receive Xbox One in November to 13 markets, including Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Spain, United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand, in November.

"We remain committed to launching Xbox One in Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, as soon as possible in 2014.

"While we wish we could launch Xbox One simultaneously in these markets, there are many factors that determine the timing of specific market launches. This includes work to localize the Xbox One dash, incorporate additional voice and languages, and build partnerships to bring apps and meaningful local content to each country.

"We understand this will be disappointing news for our fans in the impacted countries, and we are doing everything we can to bring Xbox One to you as soon as possible next year."

Posted: Aug 14, 2013 2:44 pm
Related Forum: Xbox Forum

Source: http://www.joystiq.com/2013/08/14/xbox-one-scales-back-launch-to-13-markets-this-november/