As most are aware, Microsoft is teaming with EA to bring those who purchase an Xbox One in Europe at launch a free copy of FIFA 14. The exact reasoning behind such a move remains a mystery with theories ranging from low pre-orders to simply adding value; the latter obviously being true. At £429 ($499), the Xbox One is priced slightly higher than its competition, the PS4 which retails for £349 ($399).
Including a free game definitely adds value, making the bundle more appealing, but is it enough to cause a reaction from Sony?
"No, no," SCEE boss Jim Ryan told MCVUK when asked if Sony was planning a response with the PS4.
"We have over 1m pre-orders, so why would we need to do that? We had to switch off day one pre-orders, we are now onto day two, so why would we pour gasoline onto the fire?" he asked rhetorically.
"Platform holders and publishers run pre-order campaigns, and if you need to increase momentum then they dial it up a little bit with some promotional stuff, it’s a rational thing to do. But do we need to do that? No," he concluded. For what it's worth, Sony is offering a number of free-to-play games at launch with the PS4, including a free version of Driveclub for all PlayStation Plus members.
In the same interview, Ryan also assured there is no problem between PlayStation and Electronic Arts, despite the perception that may exist as a result of the exclusivity deals Microsoft has struck with EA.
