Xbox Asia gives Grand Theft IV owners free Microsoft points

By Spencer . April 7, 2008 . 7:24am

We get it. Microsoft values the Grand Theft Auto franchise as a cornerstone property for the West. While Grand Theft Auto is available in Japan thanks to Capcom, the franchise has never made an “official” dent in Asia. Imported versions are easy to purchase, but this will be the first time a game in the Grand Theft Auto series will get an Asian release on the same day as North America. Actually, if you factor the time difference Asia gets Grand Theft Auto IV first.

Microsoft’s Asian Xbox division isn’t wasting an opportunity. They are pushing Grand Theft Auto IV with a promotion for an unlikely region considering Singapore’s content issues. Regardless of cultural differences, anyone registers on this page before April 20 and plays Grand Theft Auto on the launch day will earn 500 Microsoft Points ($6.25) for free. The catch is only gamertags registered in Hong Kong, Taiwan or Singapore are eligible for the free points.

Images courtesy of Rockstar Games.