Earlier this year, a rumor surfaced claiming Microsoft's Xbox One was destined to be the first major gaming console sold in China since the country lifted its 13-year ban on video game systems. China Telecom and Microsoft verified the news in July with the Redmond-based company setting a launch date of September 23.

Unfortunately, it looks as though Chinese gamers that have been anxiously counting down the days until this Tuesday's launch will have to wait a bit longer.

In a press release obtained by GeekWire, Microsoft said that despite strong and steady progress, they are going to need a bit more time to deliver the best experiences possible for their fans in China. In order to deliver on their promise of providing first-rate gaming and entertainment experiences, they need to reschedule the launch of the Xbox One.

Interestingly enough, Microsoft is still planning to go ahead with a launch event planned for Monday at the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai. What's more, the company will be giving away 100 free Xbox One consoles to lucky recipients in attendance. Winners can expect to receive their systems when the console launches, Microsoft said.

Microsoft didn't provide another solid launch date, instead only promising to deliver the console by the end of this year. At that time, those that have pre-ordered the system will be the first to receive it as well as an undisclosed added bonus.