As just about everyone knows, in the Japanese market, the video game console space has not been kind to Microsoft, but things seem to be getting a bit better, with Microsoft outselling both the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 last week.

While it must be said that much of the strength of Microsoft’s sales last week in Japan were due to the release of Star Ocean 4: The Last Hope by Square Enix, which was exclusive to the Xbox 360 platform. Star Ocean 4: The Last Hope also vaulted the just released Square Enix title to the top of the Japanese video game sales charts well ahead of Nintendo’s Mario and Luigi RPG 3 for the Nintendo DS.

The Xbox 360 lead in consoles sold last week in Japan was due to Microsoft’s ability to move 25,344 units, which spanked both the Nintendo Wii with 16,973 units and the PlayStation 3 at 16,149.

While the impact of the Star Ocean 4: The Last Hope will not last, it marks the second time recently that Microsoft has been able to create a surge in sales in the Japanese market space, which has lacked much interest in the Xbox 360 until several recent exclusive releases. Microsoft will have to continue the trend of exclusive titles that appeal to Japanese gamers to keep the sales flowing.