Microsoft apologizes for Xbox 360 shortages

Microsoft posted a statement at the official Xbox.jp website today apologizing for Xbox 360 shortages.

Translated (unofficially) from its original Japanese, the posting reads as follows:

"Currently, due to shortages of the Xbox 360 system, the situation has arisen where the Xbox 360 hardware cannot be purchased at many retailers. This is something that resulted from many more customers than we'd expected wanting to purchase the Xbox 360 system. We sincerely apologize to customers looking into a purchase, retailers, and to our partners."

The statement closes off with a promise of more Standard Model units (systems with the 20 gigabyte hard disc built in) shipping some time in September. Arcade and Elite systems should also be restocking shortly, according to the statement.

While Microsoft does not give specific names in its statement, the shortages are likely due to the recent release of Bandai Namco's highly anticipated Tales of Vesperia. In addition to 100,000 units in software sales -- record first week performance for 360 software -- the release was accompanied by a hardware boost to nearly five times the previous week, resulting in nearly 25,000 units sold for the week.

Some retailers, including Tsutaya's Taketo Matsuo in his weekly column at Mainichi.jp have noted a hardware push following Tales, but have expressed disappointment at hardware shortages.

More RPGs and Japan-oriented titles appear to be on the way for the 360 following the Vesperia release. From Square Enix, Infinite Undiscovery will launch on September 11, with Last Remnant following on November 20. In addition to these titles, Microsoft will be holding its annual Xbox 360 Media Briefing press conference in Tokyo on September 1st where it will outline its upcoming domestic game lineup.