Microsoft Talks Up Xbox 360 Success
Microsoft chairman Bill Gates made a surprise appearance at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles Tuesday, saying the company has plans to extend its Xbox Live franchise to computers and cell phones.
Called "Live Anywhere," the service would link the 150 million Windows-based computer gamers and more than 1 billion cell phones that are video game-ready. Gates also said the capability would be built into Windows Vista when it ships in early 2007.
"By opening the Xbox Live entertainment network to the entire universe of Windows and mobile gamers, we're creating unparalleled gameplay opportunities that will drive incredible growth of the online community," Gates told attendees at Microsoft's E3 press conference.
The feature will make its debut in the PC game "Shadowrun" this winter, as well as versions of "Bejeweled," "Zuma" and "Hexic" for Windows Mobile, Java and BREW-based handsets within the year. Microsoft expects 6 million gamers to be using Xbox Live by 2007.
While touching on Microsoft's plans for Live Anywhere, Gates also touted the success of the Xbox 360, saying by the end of the year 160 game titles would be available. Microsoft remains on track to sell 5 million units by next month, and Gates said by the time the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3 ship, nearly 10 million Xbox 360 units will have been sold.
The company also took issue with Sony's claims in its Monday press conference. Microsoft Game Studios General Manager Shane Kim called the company "audacious" for its claims that the next generation begins with the PS3, especially considering Microsoft would have shipped millions of units before Sony shipped its first retail unit.
Additionally, some analysts have warned that Sony may be discounting rivals like Microsoft to its own detriment. With a serious competitor in Xbox 360, and a low-priced alternative in the Nintendo Wii, Sony will likely not enjoy the substantial market share it has previously, and must be aggressive in promoting its next generation system.
JupiterResearch analyst Michael Gartenberg said that Microsoft's new offerings could further benefit its bottom line, however the company needs to be cautious.
"There's definitely more of a strategy here emphasizing the role of the platform in the game experience which is a core Microsoft strength," Gartenberg said. "The challenge will be doing this without losing the core gaming focus that's helped get Microsoft market share."