Microsoft Confirms X05 Event For Europe

Microsoft officials have confirmed that there will be an X05 trade and press event this year in Europe, to be held on the 4th and 5th of October. However, the location of the event is currently undisclosed, with previous expos taking place in Cannes, Seville and Juan-les-Pins on the Côte d'Azur. Microsoft's X events have traditionally been used for high profile Xbox announcements, particularly those pertaining to Europe. The events have also been famously lavish, with guest entertainment provided by the likes of Carl Cox, Groove Armada and Massive Attack. The first European X event in 2001 revealed pricing details for the Xbox and Xbox Live in Europe, while X02 saw the first announcement of Microsoft’s acquisition of Rare, and X03 was used to announce Microsoft Game Studios’ partnership with Epic Games, now starting to be consummated through titles such as Gears Of War. With the Xbox winding down for the release of the Xbox 360, there was no X04 event last year, with the re-emergence of the expo being used to promote the imminent launch of the Xbox 360. This may also be the first time that the European release dates and pricing for the new format are revealed, with other third party announcements also expected. Commenting on the announcement of X05, Chris Lewis, regional vice president, Xbox, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and host, said: "We are very excited about X05 and believe this will prove to be a real highlight in the gaming calendar this year. We have a lot to say and even more to show people. Believe me, after X05 there will be no question that Xbox 360 is the next generation".