February 23^rd, 2002 (12:00am) - 9:32pm 02/22/02

For Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, the Japanese Xbox launch began at midnight in Shibuya. Appearing before throngs of reporters and eager gaming fanatics at the Q-Front building, Gates briefly spoke to the assembled crowds, played a few rounds of Dead or Alive 3, and ceremoniously handed out the first Xbox units. In his speech, Gates called the Xbox an epoch in the gaming industry that will revolutionize the way games are played. Moreover, he stressed the technical capabilities of the system including its built-in hard-drive and Ethernet components. But for the enigmatic billionaire, the day was just beginning.

At nine o’clock in the morning Gates reappeared in Shibuya to celebrate the Xbox launch and mingle with the masses gathering on the streets. Once again, Gates spoke from inside the G-Front building, which was simulcast on huge video screens on the streets. Specifically, he revealed that approximately 250,000 units were available for launch in Japan though most would assuredly sellout before the weekend. Much like Microsoft’s retail commitment in America, supplemental shipments of Xbox consoles are expected almost weekly in Japan. Gates was also joined by recording artist Yoshiki and several Japanese Microsoft executives in the early morning hours. Speaking with members of the press, Gates confessed that his favorite Xbox title thus far is ’Project Gotahm Racing,’ though he has a penchant for ’Jet Set Radio Future’ and ’Dead or Alive 3’ as well. When all was said and done, one lucky customer walked away with an Xbox unit autographed by Gates that read ’Best Wishes - Bill Gates - 2/ 22/02!’

But the launch madness wasn’t restricted to Japan’s Shibuya district. On the contrary, retailers began ringing up Microsoft consoles in Tokyo’s electronic district Akihabara at 7 AM. Lines were fierce outside several locations including Laox, Sofmap and Messe Sanoh. Within a few hours of opening, most retailers seemed to reach the same conclusion; customers want Dead or Alive 3. Developed by Japanese developer Tecmo, the fighting game literally flew off shelves. Jet Set Radio Future and Project Gotham Racing also posted strong first day sales according to retailers in the region.

(go to http://www.xengamers.com/sections/news/6539/ for images)