Microsoft Japan held it’s annual management policy press conference in its Tokyo headquarters yesterday, and the head of Xbox Japan, Takashi Izumi, had some interesting information to share regarding the Xbox One’s early performance in Japan, as well as what we can expect in the future.

Izumi stated that the console’s preorder numbers are within expectations, and that the Day One Edition is drastically outperforming the Kinect-less SKU. He also encouraged eager customers to pre-order early, as many retailers will soon be closing their orders for the Day One Edition. I find it strange that preorders for the Day One Edition are being closed so early – especially considering how the console’s demo stations won’t be landing all across Japan for another few weeks.

As far as the Tokyo Game Show is concerned, Microsoft has announced that it will be focusing on the new titles announced at E3 and the console’s extensive holiday line-up. On top of the announced software lineup, Izumi suggested that fans be exited for a few surprises that will be happing at the show – a statement that Spencer has been echoing since March.

Microsoft definitely is the underdog when it comes to launching a console in Japan, but with their ever-growing list of Japanese support, as well as several hot-ticket exclusives – some of which are more niche to western gamers than others – the only thing standing in their way at this point is their reputation. But even as is, if the current trends hold, come September 4th, the Xbox brand should be seeing the best Japanese launch it’s ever had.

[via, Game Watch]