Microsoft Unites Xbox and PC Gamers with Debut of Games for Windows - LIVE

REDMOND, Wash. - March 14, 2007 - Microsoft Corp. today announced the extension of the Xbox LIVE® games and entertainment network to the Windows® platform, bringing together the most popular online console game service with the most popular games platform in the world. Debuting on May 8, 2007, with the launch of the Windows Vista™ version of the Xbox® blockbuster "Halo® 2," Games for Windows - LIVE will connect Windows gamers to over six million gamers already in the Xbox LIVE community. Then, launching in June, "Shadowrun™" will for the first time connect Windows gamers with Xbox 360™ players in cross-platform matches using a single service. "UNO®," releasing later in 2007, will also support cross-platform play between Windows and Xbox 360.

The launch of Games for Windows - LIVE marks a major expansion of the LIVE service across multiple platforms, uniting gamers with a single identity, a single gamertag, a single friends list and a single list of achievements attainable on the Xbox 360 and a Windows-based PC. Games for Windows - LIVE gamers will be able to easily find and play supported titles online with their friends across a Windows computer or an Xbox 360. As a unified service with Xbox LIVE, Games for Windows - LIVE will be available in every country and region supported today by Xbox LIVE.

"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 benefit of expanding 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."

Microsoft & XBox 360 LIVE

Credit: Microsoft

Copyright: Microsoft