Since its launch, Microsoft’s Games for Windows – LIVE gaming service has hit some criticism, including requiring Windows Vista and required payment for features that normally would be free for Xbox 360 owners.
In a nutshell, the gaming service allows for PC users to connect to the LIVE service, which includes a Gamertag, achievements for certain games and cross platform play. So far only three games have been released that utilize the service — Shadowrun, Halo 2 and UNO.
RTS developer Petrogylph announced that their upcoming RTS game, Universe At War, will be the latest game to use Games for Windows – Live. Don’t roll your eyes yet about getting Vista in order to play the game because it looks like the gaming service will work in Windows XP.
Petrogylph lead designer "Delphi-PG" said, "We have been assured by MS that UAW should have no problems running LIVE on XP. Also we are working with MS on our Silver match making setup to ensure that players have a good experience online."
So what does this mean for PC users? For one, you technically don’t need Vista to use Games for Windows – LIVE. Microsoft is planning to release LIVE support for third parties by the end of year, so hopefully, companies will smart up and include XP support.
