Microsoft Announces Company’s First Cross-Platform Gaming Controller

Xbox 360 Controller for Windows delivers a consistent experience across Microsoft platforms.

REDMOND, Wash. — Oct. 19, 2005 — Microsoft Corp. today announced the retail availability of its first cross-platform game controller and the latest addition to the Microsoft^® Game Precision Series. The Xbox 360^™ Controller for Windows^® delivers the precision and control that will set the standard for next-generation game controllers.

“This controller is a great example of one of the many areas where the Xbox 360 and Windows platforms complement each other,” said J Allard, Microsoft corporate vice president and chief XNA officer. “The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows is an important step in making it easier for consumers to enjoy gaming on both platforms.”

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows works with Windows XP-based PCs and the Xbox 360 system, with a comfortable, enhanced ergonomic design, force feedback vibration support and a familiar button layout across both platforms.

“For the first time, gamers can simply unplug their controller from their Xbox 360 system and plug it into their Windows XP-based PC,” said Chris Donahue, director of the Windows gaming and graphics team at Microsoft. “This is a great breakthrough for the gaming industry as we make it easier for developers to create multiplatform titles.”

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows retail product will include a driver for Windows XP-based PCs. The wired Xbox 360 Controller, which comes with the core Xbox 360 system, will also work on Windows XP-based computers after users download the available driver from Microsoft. The Controller has a 9-foot breakaway controller cable that plugs into a standard USB port.

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows is widely available in North America for an estimated retail price of $39.99 (U.S.)* and will be released soon in Europe and Asia. The driver will also be available via download from Windows Update at http://www.windowsupdate.com and the Microsoft Hardware Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/hardware.

Industry Partner Support for the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows
“Microsoft’s new cross-platform controller will make it easier for Electronic Arts to develop games for both Windows and Xbox 360. It also promises to help bring our top-notch catalog of sports, driving and action games to wider audiences.”

— John Schappert

Senior Vice President

Group Studio General Manager

Electronic Arts Inc.

“THQ is excited about the release of the new Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, as it will give gamers the precise control needed when playing games such as ‘MotoGP URT 3’ and other titles. The introduction of Microsoft’s first cross-platform controller is an exciting peek at what the future holds for multiplatform development.”

— Kelly Flock

Executive Vice President

Worldwide Publishing

THQ Inc.

“Ubisoft is thrilled about Microsoft’s new Xbox 360 Controller for Windows. Ubisoft’s stunning games, such as ‘Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones,’ combined with the ease of use of the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows will enable gamers to take full advantage of the features in both the game and controller.”

— Martin Sevigny

Director of Production Technology

Ubisoft Entertainment

“Microsoft’s new Xbox 360 Controller for Windows creates a consistent, high-quality gaming experience across multiple platforms. The industry has been anxiously awaiting a new standard in controllers for Windows.”

— Peter Della Penna

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Product Development

Vivendi Universal Games Inc.

About Games for Windows
Games for Windows are built to harness the powerful technology of Windows to provide gamers with the most innovative games possible. Games for Windows utilize the performance and stability of Windows to bring seriously fun gaming to everyone. Reliability, compatibility and the freedom of customization empower gamers to create their own gaming destiny. More information is available at http://www.windowsgaming.com.

About Microsoft Hardware
For more than two decades, the Hardware Group has employed innovative engineering, cutting-edge industrial design and extensive usability testing to create products of exceptional quality and durability that enhance the software experience and strengthen the connection between consumers and their PC. Microsoft Hardware leads the industry in ergonomic engineering, industrial design and hardware/software compatibility, offering consumers an easier, more convenient and more enjoyable computing experience.

About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

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* Actual retail prices may vary.

Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360 and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

For more information, press only:
Vanessa Whorley, Edelman, (206) 223-1606, vanessa.whorley@edelman.com

Brian Kemp, Edelman, (206) 223-1606, brian.kemp@edelman.com

Liz DeBord, Edelman, (206) 223-1606, liz.debord@edelman.com

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