Last month, Microsoft started displaying Xbox One units at its retail stores around the United States. The move is part of Microsoft's marketing campaign, but it's only really helpful to those content with looking with their eyes and not their hands. The consoles themselves are locked inside glass cases and customers can't touch, much less play. However, that's going to change starting next week.
It seems Microsoft is finally ready to allow gamers some hands on time with the Xbox One. Microsoft's Larry 'Major Nelson' Hryb this week announced a tour that will see several Microsoft stores in the US (and one in Canada) offer customers the opportunity to try out the new console. The tour will kick off in with Larry Hryb visiting New England next week, before hitting Orlando, Arizona, and Edmonton in Canada. Those that attend will get the chance to play some games and check out the Xbox One controller (check out Major Nelson's blog for full details, more dates will be announced soon).
Announced in May and fully revealed at E3 in June, the Xbox One will cost $499. For that price, customers will get the system, one controller, a chat headset, Kinect, a free 14-day trial for Xbox Live Gold (for new members only). Additional controllers will have to be purchased separately. Microsoft will also offer a limited-edition commemorative bundle for those that reserve their units ahead of time. This will guarantee you can get the Xbox One on launch day and will feature "premium" black packaging, a limited edition Xbox One Day One , and a commemorative Day One Achievement. There's also bonus content for those that reserve Ryse: Sons of Rome, Forza 5, Kinect Sports Rivals, or Dead Rising 3.
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