The previously rumored cheaper, streamlined Xbox 360 has just been confirmed by Microsoft, but not as a standard price cut. The 4GB Kinect-equipped Xbox 360 hardware bundle will be dropped to $99, but a two-year Xbox Live Gold subscription at a cost of $15 a month will be required.
Though this is a deal upfront, Microsoft’s latest effort to move the console will cost gamers more after the duration of the two years. Currently available at the 21 Microsoft Store retail locations in the US, the full price of the bundle after two years will be $460. The price of that same hardware without the contract after two years of Live? Just $420.
Any interest in this new bundle? Do you think that consumers are willing to pay more in the long run if the start-up cost is cheaper? Be sure to let us know what you think by leaving us a comment below, or discuss the Xbox 360 in our forums.