Microsoft 'Stands Behind' HD DVD Despite Setbacks

Despite Warner Bros' recent decision to back Blu-ray (and Paramount's rumored reversal), Microsoft says it is standing by its decision to support HD DVD on Xbox 360.

"We continue to believe that HD DVD is the best quality experience at the most affordable price," said a Microsoft representative in an email to GamePro on Tuesday. "We stand behind our decision to offer the Xbox 360 owner an affordable choice to adopt HD optical media."

On Friday, Warner Bros. abruptly defected from dual format support in favor of exclusively backing Blu-ray, dealing a sizable blow to HD DVD backers.

Paramount, one of the last remaining backers of HD DVD in addition to Universal, denied rumors today that the studio would reverse its recent decision and go with Blu-ray following Warner's announcement.

"Paramount's current plan is to continue to support the HD DVD format," a company spokeswoman told Bloomberg on Tuesday.

Whatever happens, one thing's for sure; the PS3 just got more attractive, and the external HD DVD drive for Xbox 360 just lost some of its appeal.