Microsoft launched the next-generation Xbox One console today with launch parties being hosted across the world.

Early sales data shows that the latest console will easily surpass sales of its predecessor, the Xbox 360, according to UK video game retailer Games.

Games chief digital officer Ian Chambers stated: "You could almost taste the excitement. Gamers had been waiting for Xbox One for over eight years and we saw a massive turnout at the midnight openings at more than 300 GAME stores across the UK. We've seen record preorder numbers for the new generation consoles and looking at the initial response it's clear that sales will easily surpass that delivered at the Xbox 360 launch."

However, with hundreds of thousands of consoles being sold to customers, Microsoft is not immune to any hardware issues.

As the console launched across North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand last night, some consumers reported faulty Blu-ray disc drives in the gaming system.

One user, Bernhard Schüller, posted a video of the disc error on Youtube. "Xbox One- Day One Disc Drive broken, thank you Microsoft!!! I received my Xbox one today, unpacked it, and well its broken..."

Microsoft has not yet responded to the issues reported by consumers.

When Sony released its Playstation 4 last week, some customers complained of a "blinking blue light of death" error that pops up when they try to turn on their consoles.

In response, Sony acknowledged the issues and released a detailed troubleshooting guide to help customers resolve the issue that could be related with the hard drive or power supply of the console.

The Japanese company said less than 0.4% of all units have been affected by this problem.

Sony stated: "The number of affected PS4 systems is less than 1 percent, which represents a very small percentage of total units shipped to date and is within the expected range for a new product introduction. We understand the frustration of consumers that have had a problem and are working with them and our retail partners to help troubleshoot issues and ensure affected units are exchanged."

The company also stated: "This is within our expectations for a new product introduction, and the vast majority of PS4 feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We are closely monitoring for additional reports, but we think these are isolated incidents and are on track for a great launch."

Sony reported sales of over one million PS4 units in North America when it was launched on Nov. 15, 2013.