NPD reports that for the first time in several years, Microsoft’s Xbox 360 has earned first place in the monthly gaming console sales rankings. The 360 moved 422,000 units. Meanwhile, over in Japan, Sony’s PSP go continues to be a disaster, with 3-month sales totals of only 17,618 handhelds.

February was not a prosperous month for gaming companies, as sales were down 15% from this time last year. The Wii moved 397,900 copies, PS3 360,100, and 101,900 for the PS2. Nintendo’s DS sold 613,200 units, while the PSP/PSP go moved 133,400 copies.

For the past 3 months in Japan, the PSP go has sold an unbelievably low 17,618, compared to 667,961 of the original PSP. By comparison, 703,015 of Nintendo’s various DS flavors have been purchased.

Sony may eventually have to scrap the PSP go and redesign it into the anticipated PSP go smartphone.

Sources: NPD Report, Japanese Report