Microsoft may be sacking 15,000 employees, but the Xbox 360 records its best Christmas in the brand's six-year history, almost doubling 2007's sales, with eight million consoles sold in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa up to the end of 2008.

EMEA Interactive Entertainment Business Regional VP Chris Lewis was all too happy with this result. “Christmas 2008 was a resounding success for Xbox 360. 2008 saw us grow faster than any of our competitors and we over-achieved in sales during the crucial Christmas selling period." He adds that this was thanks to the price cut they gave the console back in September, to which the European market responded favorably.

Lewis also comments on the Xbox 360's lead over the competing PlayStation 3. "With eight million consoles sold since we launched, and consistently out-selling PlayStation 3 in EMEA, we’re poised to build on this success in 2009," he said. "As we move into 2009 and an uncertain economic climate, we continue to be committed to offering the right blend of gaming and entertainment experiences at the right price."

They're really emphasizing on the price cut that Sony isn't giving the PS3. After all, that gave them the advantage over the competition sales-wise. It's funny, however, that the rest of Microsoft isn't doing as hot as they prepare to sack 15,000.

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