Microsoft Europe is actually very busy. Not because they are fixing security bugs… Indeed marketing departments of every European Microsoft offices are gearing up for the launch of the XBox in Europe. This highly awaited console is set to be released on March 14th 2002. And because we are approaching the launch date, the powerful marketing machine of Microsoft is redoubling its efforts to promote the console, on every media. Since the beginning of February every European shopping sites is taking pre-orders on the console but that’s far from being all. Every localized MSN portal now features a XBox section with cool and free stuff to download: wallpapers, screenshots, videos, Xcards, etc. Depending on the countries many events were organized and are yet to come like live demo of the console in shopping malls, chats with XBox promoters, contests to win the desired console, etc. But in France, Microsoft has inaugurated in brass band a few months ago the XBox Lounge: a wide loft in the centre of Paris where fans & VIP can try the console before it actually hits the store. If that wasn’t enough, the first issue of the OXM (Official XBox Magazine) is available in every kiosk. Finally the heads of Microsoft’s marketing have even addressed the major problem of the Xbox: its price. Indeed many credit offers are available on Microsoft sites so you can purchase an Xbox for only 36€ per month. With all the hype and fuss Microsoft is creating over the Xbox, it’s impossible for teenagers, hardcore gamers to not be aware of the imminent launch of this awesome gaming platform.