The video game console race has well and truly heated back up with Microsoft Australia officially cutting the price of its Xbox 360 Elite console by $100, making it $50 cheaper than the new PS3 Slim.

As of 22 September 2009, the Xbox 360 Elite will retail for $449 in Australia, and to add that little extra incentive for consumers and sway them away from other competition, Microsoft will also throw in a copy of Halo 3: ODST if you buy it before 20 October.

Just last week the video game community was abuzz with the news that Sony will be releasing its new PS3 Slim at a dramatically reduced price of $499, Microsoft has hit back and turned the attention back onto them.

While the new PS3 Slim will still get a lot of attention, Microsoft has now ensured that Sony will stay the most expensive console on the market.

David McLean, head of Microsoft Entertainment, ANZ, commented on the new decision.

“With Christmas right around the corner, it’s already time to start looking for entertainment and gifts that everyone will enjoy,” he said.

“If you’re looking for a fantastic social entertainment experience that won’t break the bank, then now is the time to purchase an Xbox 360. I believe we’ve got the best games, more ways to connect with friends and family and so much more on the horizon.”

There is no official price cuts for the other two models in the Xbox 360 line up as of yet, with the Xbox 360 Arcade still retailing for $299 and the Xbox 360 Pro will remain at $399.