Microsoft’s new compact Xbox 360 S has achieved the biggest UK launch for a “revised” home console, according to data from UK chart keepers Chart-Track. Launch sales have surpassed those of the PlayStation 2 Slim and PS3 Slim. The Xbox 360 S has also matched the original 360’s 2005 launch sales since its release on Friday. The news follows the successful release of the console in the US last month, where VGChartz estimates it sold over 250,000 units.
The Xbox 360 S was unveiled at this year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo, sporting a smaller, piano-black design, 250GB removable hard drive, built-in 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, and a special port for upcoming motion-control peripheral Kinect. The much maligned noise levels of its predecessor are also said to have been reduced, with a new cooling system promising a quieter gaming experience. The console currently retails for £199 in the UK.
There was further good news for Microsoft this week, as open-world shooter Crackdown 2 held on to its number-one spot in the all-format chart for the second week running, despite a 36 percent drop in sales. It held off Ubisoft’s Dance on Broadway by a mere 800 units, keeping it in the number-two spot. The only new entry this week is Disney’s Toy Story 3, which jumped into the chart at number five.
For more on the Xbox 360 S, check out the latest Start/Select below, in which GameSpot UK’s Jane and Guy take an in-depth look at the new features.
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