Following the release of Shadowrun last week, the second game to utilise Microsoft's Games for Windows - Live launches tomorrow!

On the 8th June, Microsoft launches Halo 2 for Windows Vista, which will apparently deliver improved graphics, a custom map editor and the chance to earn achievements – a first for the Halo franchise. Using a combination of dedicated servers, flexibility of the Windows platform, and the online innovation established in the Xbox original, Halo 2 for Windows Vista plans to provide a best-in-class PC-to-PC multiplayer experience.

Current members of Xbox LIVE automatically receive the functionality of Games for Windows – LIVE, using the same gamertag and friends list, at no additional cost. In addition, Games for Windows — LIVE introduces the best of Xbox LIVE functionality to please PC gamers, such as integrated in-game multiplayer voice chat and Achievements, as well as functionality demanded by PC gamers like dedicated server support, as part of the free Silver membership. Gold memberships will deliver the premium online network experience which adds benefits such as multiplayer achievements, matchmaking according to skill, reputation and gamerzone, as well as cross-platform gameplay – features only Microsoft’s Games for Windows and Xbox 360 can deliver.