Microsoft is perfectly aware of the kind of backlash it received from fans following the unveiling of the upcoming next generation Xbox One console, with most of the complaints arriving with regards to the console's price and other policies. However, Microsoft is now bent on changing that mentality toward its new console and has revealed that a "major game" from an unnamed third party developer will be available for free with the purchase of every Xbox One.
Reports from CVG state that Microsoft has already signed a new deal to bundle a "major third-party title" free with every Xbox One system across Europe, and hopefully the U.S. It further adds that the specified game has a $40 dollar value, and is an attempt to bridge the price gap between the PlayStation 4 and the Xbox One.
"A source with knowledge of the deal, who wished to remain anonymous, said the developments were part of Microsoft's goal of adding value to its system without lowering its £429 release day price. The specific game set to be bundled with Xbox One launch systems was not named, although it's understood to be a 'major' Christmas release," the report reads.
"This major game, the source said, is the 'unique Xbox One exclusive' deal that Microsoft executive Phil Spencer said was being saved for a Gamescom announcement."
A deal of this magnitude is expected to have cost Microsoft millions more while the company gets ready to launch the Xbox One around the world. If this is indeed true, Microsoft could expect to make up for the loss of interest in the Xbox One it has seen over the months, as the prospect of a free major game could be seen as a welcoming prospect for disappointed fans.
Moreover, Microsoft also has an impending threat from Sony, which has already captured the fans' attentions by introducing its very own PlayStation 4. One of the most important things that Sony has done in its quest to be a step ahead of Microsoft is setting the PlayStation 4 price at $499 and £349 - which is $100 and £80 lower than the Xbox One's retail price.
Microsoft is yet to comment on the report.