The European gaming press is currently buzzing with rumors that suggest Microsoft has signed a deal that will give a free copy of a “major third-party title” to every person who buys an Xbox One. While nothing has been confirmed, the current speculation is that the free game will be FIFA 14.
Citing “two senior games industry sources,” MCV is reporting that Microsoft will announce the deal with Electronic Arts at Gamescom tomorrow. If the report is correct, the FIFA 14 Xbox One bundle will cost £429.99 — which is the same price as the normal next-gen SKU. This would give European buyers a £54.99 value to help cover a portion of the £80 difference between the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
In addition to the European rumors, CVG is also suggesting that the Electronic Arts deal might also happen for Xbox One buyers in the US. If this part of the rumor turns out to be true, it seems unlikely that the free X1 game in the US would also be FIFA 14. A free Soccer game in the states is unlikely to carry the same kind of weight as it would in Europe.
For now, the FIFA 14 Xbox One bundle should be considered a rumor. We will keep an eye out for any confirmation from either Microsoft or Electronic Arts, and let you know as soon as anything is announced.
[Update] Major Nelson has confirmed that all Xbox One pre-orders in Europe will include a free digital download of FIFA 14, “while stock lasts.”
In Europe this Holiday: All pre-orders of #XboxOne will include a copy of FIFA 14 (while stock lasts) #Xboxgamescom http://t.co/RVDL1sbOw6
— Larry Hryb (@majornelson) August 20, 2013