Games for Windows

The Games for Windows label represents a new standard for PC gaming

Microsoft Corporation, in conjunction with leading retailers, game publishers, hardware manufacturers, and OEMs, has developed new standards for PC games. The new standards establish PC games as a unique and well-defined category. Titles bearing the Games for Windows brand means four key things:

1. "Quality. Games for Windows branded titles undergo extensive testing, and not just by the publisher. Microsoft also invests in quality checking each title to ensure they meet performance and reliability standards."

2. "Compatibility. Games for Windows branded titles work on Windows XP and Windows Vista PCs, including both 32 and 64 bit editions. Games for Windows titles that support controllers are also compatible with the Microsoft XBOX 360 controller for Windows, including the XBOX 360 Wireless Gaming Receiver for Windows." In 2007, other wireless accesories will become available as well. Games for Windows branded titles are also compatible with the widescreen format.

3. "Safety. You can be confident that any title carrying the Games for Windows brand will support the new parental controls and family settings features in Windows Vista."

4. "Easy to Play. Games for Windows branded titles are easy to install, find and remove, especially in Windows Vista. Every Games for Windows title appears in the new Windows Vista Games Explorer (no more hunting around the start menu for that game you just installed). And Games for Windows branded titles all offer some form of 'easy install', putting you in the game more quickly."

Also see: Games for Windows Magazine (formerly Computer Gaming World).