Xbox One now launching in 13 countries: most of Europe left in the cold

We were pretty bummed out when the news came of the Xbox One initially being launched in only 21 countries. Now, the number has been cut to an unlucky number 13. Only those will have the chance of enjoying the new next-gen console launch November this year.

The eight markets that have now recently been left out in the cold include Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and Switzerland. People who pre-ordered Microsoft’s new console in these markets are said to be getting a free game when the Xbox One gets launched in their countries in 2014 notes Eurogamer. Which game, we do not know.

Gamers who live in the United States, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Spain, United Kingdom, and New Zealand should all rejoice as they could still see the console before Christmas this year. So we hope.

“When the console launches this November, we will support Xbox One in 13 markets. Xbox One may be used in all countries, including the non-launched markets. In addition, Xbox One games are not region locked. Any Xbox One game purchased at retail can be used in any country on any Xbox One,” said Microsoft in a statement.

Better get in touch with those overseas cousins to get ready for a personal shipment of gaming bundles. Online purchases of games and probably some of the console’s other entertainment features are limited. So it’s more likely you’ll be able to enjoy disc-based retail games until the local currency is supported.

“That said, there needs to be a valid payment method corresponding to a supported launch country in order for any transactions to occur over Xbox Live, and some content may not be accessible outside launch markets due to geographic content restrictions imposed by content right holders.”