At E3 this year, Microsoft announced that the Xbox One would be available in 21 markets worldwide starting in November. Now, that number has shrunk to 13.
According to a press release issued today, Microsoft said that the Xbox One will not be making it to Belgium, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Switzerland until 2014, citing a variety of factors.
“While we wish we could launch Xbox One simultaneously in these markets, there are many factors that determine the timing of specific market launches. This includes work to localize the Xbox One dash, incorporate additional voice and languages, and build partnerships to bring apps and meaningful local content to each country,” the company said in a press release.
In addition, customers who have pre-ordered the Day One edition of the console in the affected countries will receive a free game packed in with their consoles. There has not been any word yet on what that game will be.
The delays could cost Microsoft in the markets affected by the change, since Sony’s PS4 is not region-locked like the Xbox One, and will be available for purchase during holiday shopping in those countries.
Previously on GeekWire: Another reversal: Microsoft says Kinect won’t be necessary for operation of Xbox One
