Xbox Maker Predicts Major Price Cut for PlayStation Consoles in the U.S.

Microsoft, not Sony, predicted that the price of the PlayStation 4 console could drop even more in the U.S. before this year ends.

This is according to Phil Spencer, the head of Microsoft's Xbox division.

According to the executive, his prediction is based on the emerging trends that he's seeing in the video game industry. It is also based on Sony's previous strategies when it comes to attracting more gamers to its platforms.

"I fully expect they (PlayStation) will drop price," he said in an interview with IGN. "When I think about the playbook they've used in the past, we feel good about the plans we have in place going forward in the holiday."

"If history tells, then we'll see a price drop from them coming," Spencer added.

Although it's only a prediction, the Xbox chief might be onto something especially since Sony has already slashed the price of its next-gen console in other markets. Last week, Polygon reported that the PlayStation 4's price in Japan will drop in October by about $40.

Right now, the price of the console is at ¥39,980, or around $330. But, by next month, gamers in Japan will be able to purchase it at only ¥34,980, which is equivalent to roughly $290.

As noted by Cinema Blend, the price drop could be extremely beneficial for Sony since it will be able to attract a wider market base for its console. Another factor that can boost the Japanese company's overall sales is pairing the price cut with various video game-related bundles and packages.

Also, according to various sources, Sony is pushing to release Project Morpheus sometime during the first quarter of 2016. Since this virtual reality headset is specifically designed to work with the PlayStation 4, reducing the console's price could help in making Project Morpheus more accessible.

Although it may seem odd that the prediction regarding PlayStation 4's discounted price came from a rival company, Spencer statements shows the healthy competitive relationship between Sony and Microsoft.

Of course, if Sony pushes forward with a price cut in the U.S., Microsoft will most likely offer a similar deal to gamers. In other words, both companies will be pushing each other to do better in the market.

No matter the outcome, this will be good for the entire video gaming community as various discount deals, bundles and new accessories will be available for Sony and Microsoft's multiple platforms.