Microsoft has confirmed that the Windows Phone 7 will feature tight integration with the Xbox Live portal as well as many hit games such as Halo: Waypoint and Crackdown 2. Those who have one of Microsoft’s new Windows Phone 7 from their new range of handsets will be able to log in to their Xbox Live account on the device. From this they will be able to play dozens of popular games adapted specifically for the mobile platform, which also include Assassin’s Creed, Guitar Hero 5 and Splinter Cell: Conviction.
There will be easy access to these games as well as free demos and multiplayer gaming from their dedicated games “hub” where you can also accesses a user’s console-based Xbox Live profile, complete with avatar and achievements.
Backing Microsoft’s new gaming platform are major publishers and developers, including Gameloft, PopCap and Konami and Matt Booty, general manager of mobile gaming at Microsoft Game Studio, said: “The launch of Windows Phone 7 was also the launch of a major mobile gaming platform for Microsoft. Just like we’ve done with the Xbox 360, our charter is to push the envelope and deliver definitive games that maximise the platform.”
The new mobile operating system from Microsoft will be available on a number of handsets later this year, including touch-screen devices offered by HTC and LG as well as others. It’s thought that Microsoft are keen to show tight integration between the Windows Phone 7 platform and other Microsoft services, such as its Xbox Live gaming portal in an effort to take a share of the market from Apple which has enjoy huge success with its on-the-go gaming on the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
They also want to knock a dent in their rivals Sony and Nintendo gaming sales from their portable devices the PlayStation Portable and the Nintendo’s DS range which continued to sell well and are always popular.
Whilst speaking at the Gamescom video games expo in Cologne, Marc Whittten, corporate vice president of Xbox Live said: “We believe that no matter where life takes you, the best in gaming and entertainment should follow. Windows Phone 7 takes a different approach to hand-held gaming, utilising Xbox Live and leading game publishers and independent developers to create powerful, shared experiences for everyone.”