Microsoft Xbox One to be launched exclusively on Amazon India for Rs 39,990

Microsoft has entered a strategic alliance with Amazon India, following which it will start selling products under its Interactive Entertainment Business (IEB) wing exclusively on the ecommerce website. The range includes the Xbox One, Xbox 360, Kinect, Xbox Live, Xbox Accessories and all Microsoft-published Xbox game titles.   Following the announcement, Amazon.in has started accepting pre-orders for Xbox One. As speculated, Xbox One will be shipped after September 23rd at Rs 39,990, while Xbox One with Kinect will be available at Rs 45,990. The Kinect version includes more features such as gesture controls, a biometric sign-in and Skype video calls.   While its rival PS4 was introduced early on , the Xbox One has made a rather late entry to the Indian market after it was officially unveiled late 2013. Console gaming is a burgeoning industry in India, which Microsoft aims to tap with its tie-up with Amazon India. This is the first time Microsoft has experimented the ‘online only’ mode of sale, which means we might not see the Xbox One retailing in physical stores.   Microsoft announced that the Xbox One will include the FIFA 15 game for free, while the Kinect bundle will include an additional free game of Dance Central Spotlight. With an aim to woo consumers, it has launched a scheme where the first 1000 customers will get special offers worth Rs 10,000 which include Rs 3,000 off on purchase of a second Xbox One controller, Amazon.in Gift Cards worth Rs 1,500, 2 free Blu-ray movies worth Rs 2,500 (The Amazing Spiderman 2 and Captain America: The Winter Soldier), Rs 2,000 off on a selected range of speakers and Rs 1,000 off on a selected range of backpacks.   Microsoft will offer after-sales support for the Xbox 360 portfolio only till 30th of August. After this, the portfolio will become exclusive to Amazon.in. It has also promised to provide a genuine console with warranty support in India.