Microsoft Announces Xbox Live Arcade

Xbox Live turns to retro gaming.

Microsoft is betting that the one million plus Xbox Live users around the world are itching to play some old classics. Aimed as a casual gaming experience, Xbox Live Arcade will let you download a wide selection of old games like Galaga and Bejeweled to play instantaneously--that is, after you pay.

Depending on the quality of the game, you must pay anywhere from $9.99 to $19.99 for a full version of a past favorite. Leisure games will also be included, such as billiards, darts, and card games. You'll also find original titles, which will fall in the same genre: simple, one-button press games.

You must have an Xbox Live Arcade Launcher to access the library of games. To obtain the Launcher, however, will be simple. On November 3rd, the Launcher will be distributed on a disc for free at a number of retail outlets. As an incentive, Ms. Pac-Man will be included on the disc.

Xbox Live Arcade may seem trivial--bringing back old classics is not a new concept. Downloading old classics on to the Xbox is something new, though. The future of online gaming on the Xbox is certainly being explored as it is focused, too.

"We're constantly bringing innovation to online play, says Xbox spokesman Michael Wolf. "Sony has a device to let you play online--Xbox Live is an online service."

With that thought, Microsoft indeed seems to be making a strong commitment to its online community.

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