Christmas console battle as Xbox One launches ahead of PS3

Microsoft’s latest Xbox One is released just in time for the festive rush.

16:58 22 November 2013

Microsoft has just released its next-generation console, the Xbox One, in the UK just in time for the festive rush. Avid fans did not mind temperatures barely above zero and queued for hours and paid £429 to get their hands on the sleek, black box of tricks.

The new console, which cheekier fans call “XBone” is the successor to the wildly popular Xbox 350, which is now eight years old.

Launched ahead of Sony’s PS3, the new Xbox One features 500GB hard drive, an improved version of Microsoft’s Kinext motion-control system and an eight-core processor. With these features, Xbox One promises great gaming experience.

Meanwhile, Sony’s PS4 offers similar features but costs £80 less. It also comes with a motion controller. Experts agree that when it comes to what to buy, brand loyalty will play a crucial role. However, several fans are going to social media announcing that they intend to buy both.

Two gamers from east London were among the first to use the first console.

Ahmed Sheik, 19, from Hackney, said: "It was too realistic - but in a good way. It was sharp and the controller felt better."

His friend, Mohammed Hassan, 20, from Plaistow, said: "The graphics were immense and the gameplay was brilliant. The perfect game."