Microsoft has deemed its European holiday onslaught a success, with Chart-Track data reportedly showing Xbox 360 sales "almost" doubling when compared to the same period in 2007. This made the Xbox 360 the fastest-growing system of 2008, leaving it in a prime spot for further 2009 traction, says Chris Lewis, Regional Vice President of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business for the EMEA region.
"Christmas 2008 was a resounding success for Xbox 360. 2008 saw us grow faster than any of our competitors and we over-achieved in sales during the crucial Christmas selling period," said Lewis. "With eight million consoles sold since we launched, and consistently out-selling PlayStation 3 in EMEA, we're poised to build on this success in 2009." Microsoft claims to have over a one-million unit lead over the PlayStation 3 in the EMEA region, which includes Europe, the Middle East and Africa.