The Microsoft Xbox 360 has been leading the console wars for some time now, and before the PS3 had no real competition. Now with the introduction of the Wii and and the new PS3 the Xbox no longer stands alone in the next gen console market.

With the introduction of these new console soldiers Microsoft is doing their very best to spread themselves over all demographics. So far this is going pretty well and with the introduction of some more Wii like elements, they may remain on top.

A nice boost of confidence for the public will be this price drop in Canada starting tomorrow. As of September 5th Xbox 360 Arcade will retail for the estimated retail price of $199.99 (CDN), the Xbox 360 console for $299.99 (CDN) and Xbox 360 Elite for $399.99 (CDN). The price of the Arcade is almost rivaling that of the Wii known for it's affordable price. Consumers now have the opportunity to bring next gen graphics in to their homes for only $200.

“We are thrilled to be the first next-generation console on the market to reach $199, a price that invites everyone to enjoy Xbox 360,” said Don Mattrick, senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. “Xbox 360 delivers amazing performance at an extraordinary value with the leading online service and best lineup of games and downloadable movies available from a console. The majority of consumers make the decision to buy consoles once the price falls to this mark, making this an important milestone for consumers and the industry.”

Apparently more than 75 percent of all console sales happen after the price falls below the $200 mark. This coupled with the fact that Gears of War 2 and Fable 2 will both be released with in the next couple months, there has never been a better time to buy an Xbox.