Microsoft bringing PC and console gamers together
Microsoft Announced today a new extension on their Xbox LIVE games and entertainment network; this move will bring together the most popular online gaming service, Games for Windows, with the Xbox gaming console.
Starting May 8th, Games for Windows LIVE will connect windows gamers to the six million gamers in the Xbox LIVE community, and will be debuted with the launch of the Windows Vista version of the highly popular game Halo 2.
One month later, in June, Microsoft will then release the game, ”Shadowrun,” which will connect windows gamers with Xbox 360 players in cross-platform matches; followed by a cross-platform playable version of “UNO,.” launching later in 2007.
Games for Windows LIVE will be available in every region that supports the Xbox LIVE service, and will unite gamers with a single identity including their gamertags, friends list, and a single list of gaming achievements.
“Five years ago, we began building a service that now defines the bar for online gameplay,” said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business in the Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft. “The benefits of expanding Xbox LIVE to Games for Windows titles is twofold: We’re bringing together two communities that share a passion for playing online games, and we’re enhancing the online experience for PC gamers who have long desired seamless game and voice connectivity — it’s a win for everyone.”
Current members of Xbox LIVE will receive Games for Windows Live at no additional cost; however, non-members will have to pay for the Xbox LIVE services in order to obtain the functionality of Games for Windows Live.
Games for Windows LIVE, combined with Xbox LIVE, will allow gamers across both of Microsoft’s gaming platforms to communicate and play games with each other.
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