Microsoft finally confirms new Xbox 360 Arcade bundle

After months of speculation Microsoft has finally confirmed the existence of a new Xbox 360 SKU as the Arcade bundle goes on sale in stores across the US.

Retailing for USD 279.99 the Xbox 360 Arcade is designed to appeal to family groups and comes with five Xbox Live Arcade favourites, a wireless controller, HDMI cable and 256 MB of memory.

"As families gather together this holiday, it's the perfect time to launch a new low-priced, high-value Xbox 360 that plays games, TV shows and music for everyone to enjoy," commented Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of global marketing at Microsoft.

"In addition to offering an incredible all-in-one package for families to get right into the fun, the Xbox 360 Arcade system features the industry-leading Family Settings, which allow parents to control what their kids are watching and playing — and we know how important that control is to families around the world."

The five games bundled with the offering are Namco Bandai's Pac-Man Championship Edition, Carbonated Games' Uno, Luxor 2 from MumboJumbo, EA's Boom Boom Rocket and Feeding Frenzy from Sprout Games.

Family-orientated retailers are backing the new package, with Karen Dodge, senior VP at Toys R Us offering: "We are excited to offer this new gaming experience to our customers — children and families — who can now enjoy the fun of Xbox 360 together."

"Many of this holiday seasonâs hottest items provide Internet connectivity, and with the online entertainment options available through Xbox Live, Xbox 360 Arcade offers families a great mix of online content and traditional gaming in one console."

Microsoft has also announced that the bundle will be made available in Europe from October 26.