After a few days ago a Microsoft official said that Microsoft would consider a Blu Ray drive for Xbox 360 if the format wins the format war, now Variety.com reports that Universal Studios is set to end its long-standing support for the embattled HD DVD format.

Also, during the CES there were rampant rumors that Paramount could also go the Blu Ray way, thanks to an escape clause in its exclusive HD DVD support contract.

As Variety reports, neither studio is ready to throw in the towel immediately, but rather wait a few more months. If the information that Paramount and Universal are considering a retreat will prove to be true, then the HD DVD format is dead for good.

But let’s hope that Toshiba has one more ace up its sleeve. During the CES, the Toshiba officials remained defiant, saying they would continue to back the embattled format.

"We remain firm in the belief that HD-DVD is the format best suited to the wants and needs of consumers," said Akio Ozaka, head of Toshiba America Consumer Products, at a news conference.

As it announced on May 31, Warner Bros will also discontinue the release of HD DVD discs.

In addition, according to a report from PC Magazine, the adult industry could also start to migrate to the Blu Ray camp.

Although the HD DVD has better pricing, as some of the sales representatives have pointed out, the Blu Ray format enjoys a larger user installed base, thanks to the sales of PS3 gaming machines. Also, Warner’s sudden change of heart was invoked as a reason to choose one format over another.