UPDATE: We’ve just learned that the Xbox-Amazon exclusivity also extends to first-party games and accessories, which means that everything from the Xbox One controller to exclusive games like Halo 5, Sunset Overdrive and Forza Horizon 2 will only be available in India through Amazon. The deal also includes Xbox 360 hardware, accessories and games, plus Xbox Live subscriptions.
While neither Amazon or Microsoft has divulged details of this exclusivity deal, we’ve heard that the deal is for one year, beginning with the 23rd September launch of the Xbox One in India.
Original story: Xbox One will be sold in India exclusively through Amazon, Microsoft has announced, while also revealing launch bundles for the console.
Preorders have just begun, and as was revealed earlier, both the standalone console and the Kinect bundle will be available in India.
The standalone console, priced Rs 39,990, will include a free copy of FIFA 15. The Kinect bundle, which also includes the Kinect sensor, will include a free copy of FIFA 15 as well as download code for Dance Central Spotlight.
Several tech (especially mobile) brands have been known to launch their products exclusively through one online retailer, but Microsoft’s decision to go exclusive with Amazon is an unprecedented one in the gaming space. While it is clearly a more cost-effective solution for Microsoft, it remains to be seen if the online-only route works for a product that many consumers would want to get their hands on before buying.
Amazon also has some incentives for the first 1,000 customers who preorder before 12th August. This includes Rs 3,000 off on an Xbox One controller (the console comes with one), two free Blu-ray movies worth Rs 2,500, Rs 2,000 off on speakers, Rs 1,000 off on backpacks, and an Amazon e-gift card worth Rs 1,500.
The Xbox One launches in India on 23rd September.
In the interest of full disclosure: Amazon India is an advertiser on IVG.