Xbox Live Community Doubles Company: Microsoft Product: Xbox Live Once again breaking new ground and proving that gamers around the world crave personalized and social online experiences, Xbox Live, the premier global online console games and entertainment service from Microsoft, now unites 2 million gamers from around the world. Xbox Live continues to grow exponentially, having doubled its dynamic online community in just one year?the equivalent to adding one Xbox Live member every 30 seconds. "Reaching the 2 million member milestone in such a short time speaks volumes about the depth and vibrancy of the Xbox Live community," said Robbie Bach, senior vice president of the Home and Entertainment Division and chief Xbox officer at Microsoft. "This enormous growth is a true testament to the compelling content and engaging experiences enabled through Xbox Live today. The service is inspired by the creative power of the individual, and fueled by the passion of a worldwide community." The Xbox Live milestone is due largely to the growing library of video game titles that deliver incredible online experiences, the availability of exciting downloadable content to extend gaming experiences, and the vibrant and active online community. More than 20 million pieces of content have been downloaded to date, proving that gamers today are experiencing more exciting downloadable content?such as extra levels, maps, and weapons?than ever before to enhance their gaming experience. Xbox Live gamers have plenty to look forward to in the coming months, from current-generation titles to the launch of Microsoft's eagerly anticipated next-generation Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. With the launch of the console this holiday season, the Xbox Live portfolio is planned to have more than 300 multiplayer Xbox and Xbox 360 games available for gamers to enjoy. New Xbox 360 titles will include Perfect Dark: Zero (Microsoft Game Studios), Project Gotham Racing 3 (Microsoft Game Studios), Madden NFL 06 (Electronic Arts), Dead or Alive 4 (Tecmo?) and Call of Duty 2 (Activision, Inc.). In the current generation, third-party publishers continue to show strong support for Xbox Live with games such as Tony Hawk's American Wasteland (Activision), Star Wars Battlefront II (LucasArts) and Battlefield 2: Modern Combat (Electronic Arts). Transferring user accounts to the next-generation console will be easy. Because Xbox Live is a universal service between both platforms, gamers can move their Xbox Live memberships seamlessly from Xbox to Xbox 360, while still enjoying online games and entertainment on the current-generation system. With the launch of Xbox 360, Xbox Live gamers can expect incredible new experiences in the next generation of the online games service, including: Multiple levels of service: To fit the unique needs and interests of each Xbox Live gamer, the Xbox Live Gold membership offers all the Xbox Live Silver features as well as multiplayer online gaming, tournaments, and participation in original programs such as Game with Fame and Prime Time Gaming. The Xbox Live Silver membership includes free basic features such as a Gamer Profile, access to the Xbox Live Marketplace, plus voice chat and messaging. Gamer card: A quick summary of a player's Gamer Profile, this contains a player's Gamertag, Gamer Picture, Reputation, Gamerzone, and personal motto. Gamerzone: Players can choose their style of social gaming and be seamlessly paired with others based on their preferences. Integrated message center: Members can stay connected even when not online playing. Xbox Live Marketplace: This one-stop shop for all downloadable content includes free content such as trailers and themes, as well as full-featured premium content such as racing cars and maps. -Starscream, GameVortex Communications AKA Ricky Tucker Related Links: Xbox