Microsoft introduced its HD DVD player for the Xbox 360 last November for a
price of $199 USD. The Xbox 360 launched without a high definition disc
player, so the USB-based HD DVD add-on gave Microsoft the additional firepower
necessary to combat the PlayStation 3's standard Blu-ray disc drive.
Through the end of June, Microsoft had sold over 155,000 of
the HD DVD add-ons and proclaimed it the "biggest-selling
accessory" ever for a console.
Now, Microsoft has seen fit to reduce the price of its most
expensive accessory for the Xbox 360. Effective August 1, the HD DVD add-on
will retail for $179 USD. In addition, customers who purchase the peripheral between
August and September 30 will also qualify to receive five free HD DVD movies.
"With the price reduction to $179, the Xbox 360 HD DVD
Player continues to be the most affordable way to enjoy high definition,"
said Microsoft's Jeff Bell. "From the beginning, we set out to offer Xbox
360 owners an unrivaled high-definition experience, with a choice of optical
discs on the HD DVD format and digital downloads through Xbox LIVE Marketplace
-- both of which have a selection of the best content Hollywood has to
offer."
Microsoft will highlight the HD DVD add-on price reduction
by offering the movie "300" on demand in HD beginning August 14
through Xbox LIVE. Also on deck will be a free download of the season one pilot
of "Heroes." "300" and "Heroes: Season 1" will also be available on HD DVD.
