Xbox 360 is poised to be the main console this Christmas

by James Quilter , Brand Republic 24-Nov-09, 14:13

LONDON - Microsoft's Xbox 360 could be the big winner in this Christmas' battle of the consoles, according to figures from an online voucher distributor.

Myvouchercodes.co.uk has analysed data from voucher downloading and sales of the Xbox and Sony's PlayStation 3. The company found the Microsoft console is surging ahead on sales even though it is a year older than the three-year old PS3.

In August and September the two were evenly placed in terms of units sold. However there has been a significant increase in sales throughout October and November with the Xbox's share of the pair's sales rising to 62% and 74% respectively.

Additionally, when measured against the Nintendo Wii as well, the Xbox has still been taking around 50% of the sales, with the Wii on 28% and the PS3 on 22%.

Myvouchercodes founder Mark Pearson said: "If sales stay at their current rate, the Xbox will outsell the PS3 by three units to one."

There are two possible reasons behind the increase. Microsoft has launched a significant marketing campaign behind the console including last month's extended ad across an entire break of the X-Factor.

Another reason is the launch of the Arcade version of the console, which is £100 cheaper than the PS3 at £149.99.