Microsoft to Release Arcade Games for Xbox

It seems that as it is the case with fashion, retro is a style that orbits even the game field coming in and out of focus. In this context Microsoft will bring retro games to its Xbox users. With such a strategy the video console addresses not only its avid fans but also the loyal players of game titles dating back to 1980. Arcade games like Pac-Man and Frogger will find their way in the Xbox environment each Wednesday, Microsoft planning such releases once a week.

The Redmond Company has already announced five releases. On July 12 Frogger will be the first step of the initiative, followed on July 19 by Cloning Clyde, on July 26 by Galaga, on August 2 by Street Fighter II' Hyper Fighting and on August 9, Pac-Man will close the series announced so far.

The games will be available through Xbox Live Arcade. The online service will permit users to get their hands on free trial games and to download the updated versions of Arcade titles for prices ranging from $5 to $15.

Xbox Live Arcade representatives claim that the initiative was an instant success with more than 5 million free trial games downloaded and over 21% of those ending up as purchases. All the Arcade titles have undergone face lifts, feature enhancement, artwork invigoration, soundtrack refreshment and upgrades to the sound effects, but in a manner that respects the traditional style of the games.

Momentarily Microsoft has offered Xbox users a number of 20 arcade games but the Redmond Company hopes to bring that number up to 50 by the end of 2007.