14 DAY TRIAL // Starting with May 8, 2007, Microsoft will extend the Xbox Live games and entertainment network to the Windows Vista. In order to celebrate bridging the gap between the top online console game service and the Windows game platform, Microsoft will launch on May 8, 2007, the Halo 2 blockbuster for Windows Vista. Games for Windows - Live will launch the very same day and will bring together the Windows and the Xbox Live gaming communities.
Microsoft revealed that the Shadowrun, scheduled for availability in June 2007, will be the first title to connect Windows Vista and Xbox 360 gamers via the same service. Additionally, Microsoft plans to deliver UNO, in the second half of 2007. These games will all support cross-platform play.
"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."
Games for Windows - Live, designed as a service unified with Xbox Live, will be available in all the geographical locations that support Xbox Live at this time. Current members of Xbox Live will automatically benefit from the added functionality, Microsoft announced. The Redmond Company will continue to offer Silver memberships free of charge, while the Gold memberships will cost $49.95 per year.