Game on
Microsoft has given its Xbox website a makeover to coincide with the launch of its Windows Phone 7.
The most notable addition to the site, as well as a new layout, is its ‘Mobile' section, which was announced at the WP7 launch, and lets Xbox LIVE users access their account from their phone, flaunt achievements and create or add to their avatar.
The new features now allow people to play web games with their Xbox LIVE friends on the web or on WP7.
The website includes a browser-based avatar editor that allows users to preview items before they buy. The avatar seems to be particularly important for the WP7 gaming experience and allows gamers to see ‘who's online and what [their] friends are doing on their consoles, PCs of Windows 7 phones.'
The website has also been re-designed to show a combined view of messages, friend and game requests as well as better notifications about account subscriptions.
Microsoft said the Marketplace has also been revamped to provide ‘more powerful search and more intuitive ways to browse and filter.' There is also a nifty feature for parents to understand how their family is using Xbox LIVE.
With all the tools in place, it just remains to be seen whether Xbox gaming fans will go out and buy Windows Phones.
Here's an image from Microsoft showing off the avatar feature.
