So multiple internet stories are once again pointing to retailer leaks that all but confirm that the Xbox 360 Elite is dropping to $299.99.  (In the United States) So for once we have two of the current gen game system at the same price point and even the same hard drive space. People are going to compare. [These opinions are soley my own and do not reflect Games Abyss or its editorial staff.]

Nitpicking aside lets admit that graphics, sound, game controllers are about the same. Here's where there's a big difference. The new PS3 Slim has Blu-ray and WiFi built in. The Xbox 360 Elite has backwards compatibility with older games. Now just on paper it's obvious the new PS3 is without a doubt the better value right now. Whether or not you use Blu-ray, it's an added value format that comes with the system. Xbox has Netflix but that's an extra cost. The built in WiFi might be the bigger blow. That's a $100 accessory that Sony is giving away for free. That's a strong left hook followed by an uppercut. Xbox needs to either bundle in the WiFi adaptor, which is horribly overpriced, or it needs to market some aggressive bundles. The plain Elite just doesn't cut it. If they don't this could be a very different holiday season from the last few ones. The Xbox 360 Arcade does offer a lower point of entry but will that be enough?

Agree or disagree? Or does the Nintendo DSi and Wii dominance make this irrelevant? Leave your comments.