The Xbox was Microsoft's first foray into home video game systems and marked the start of a successful line of Xbox consoles. It was released on November 15, 2001 and competed directly with the Sony Playstation 2 and Nintendo GameCube. Over 24 million units would eventually be sold. If instead of buying the Xbox on launch day, you had invested in Microsoft stock, your shares would be worth an estimated $1,423 today (or $1,328 after fees).