The idea that Microsoft would open their own retail store directly across from the Apple Store at the Mall of America says a lot; that Microsoft feels they can compete with Apple head-to-head, and more importantly that they feel they have to compete with Apple. And Microsoft feels the best way to compete with Apple is by copying them. It’s the 80s all over again. That the Microsoft Store a blatant ripoff, a copy, a funhouse mirror reflection of the Apple Store, is apparent.

Not only did Microsoft feel they had to go and copy Apple for their stores themselves, they also felt the need to take a page out of the book of Improv Everywhere. If the colorful shirts, store layout, and concepts involved in their retail store (i.e. Genius Bar type help desks) weren’t enough to show Microsoft’s ability to copy, the randomly clapping and dancing proves this. Enjoy the video.

It’s official: Microsoft has answered Apple’s challenge in retail store sales. Locations and opening dates have not been specified yet, but it appears the number of stores will be small, with a focus on building brand awareness and excitement for Windows products. The effort is being spearheaded by a former Walmart executive, David Porter, who was most recently head of worldwide distribution for Dreamworks SKG. It would appear that the Apple Store’s runaway success in luring consumers has finally made enough of an impact on Microsoft that they feel the need to respond—eight years late, but better late than never, right?