Microsoft has today announced that on October 15 it will release a $179.99 Xbox Holiday Cheer bundle containing copies of Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Tetris Worlds Live and a two-month trial subscription to Xbox Live. Although the single box bundle won't be available until next month, the promotion will be available at many official Xbox retailers as early as September 17.

"By offering Xbox with two super-premium games and a trial Xbox Live subscription, we're giving consumers an easy and affordable way to bring the complete Xbox entertainment experience into their homes this holiday," said Mitch Koch, vice president of retail sales and marketing for the home and entertainment division at Microsoft. "There's never been a better time to buy Xbox."

The Holiday Cheer bundle announced today will be available in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Microsoft is expected to announce similar plans for Europe at its X03 event in France tomorrow.