The Software giant, Microsoft is all set to make its Xbox customer base heavier by bringing two family friendly alternatives.

The Xbox 360 Pro Package will be available at just $579.95. It consists of a high definition Pro console with two games comprising the pet nurturing Viva Pinata.

The Xbox 360 Arcade Console, available at just $379.95, will accompany five arcade games including Pac Man Championship Version and UNO.

The Xbox 360’s Pro variant edition will hit the market on November 1 whereas the Arcade Console package will be introduced on November 15.

David McLean, Microsoft Australia Xbox director, told, “We’re targeting a broader audience than our hardcore community through the Christmas holiday period. We think it’s really good value for our customers.”

Recently, Sony has also brought out a scaled down version of its PlayStation 3 console, which is available at just $699, but Mr. McLean declined to comment that Microsoft was making this attempt to overcome its challenger.

“Production of consoles takes some time and you have to forecast way ahead of time. This has always been our strategy. Last week when they made their announcement we still outsold them and it will be interesting to see how this will go for them,” Mr. McLean added.

There were no temporary plans to bundle up HD DVD drives with the Xbox 360, regardless of the PS3 giving Blu-ray an early lead in the next-generation DVD wars.

“We’re seeing HD DVD take up increase but certainly isn’t one for one that everyone buying an Xbox 360 is buying an HD DVD drive. I think it’s a misnomer to assume that someone enthusiastic about gaming is enthusiastic about buying HD movies,” he said.