May 9^th, 2003 (12:00am) - Xbox Live gamers around the globe will be excited to hear about a host of new pricing options to debut this fall in North America. With renewal rates remaining the same as the Xbox Live launch last fall, Microsoft today announced the following pricing details:

• Xbox Live one year renewal/subscription: $49.99
  
• Xbox Live monthly rate: $5.99
  
• Xbox Live Voice Communicator: $29.99
  
• Xbox Live Starter Kit: $69.99
  

To make it easier for everyone to experience the thrill of Xbox Live, a two month free trial will also be widely available this fall.

The subscription rate means those already enjoying the service will be able to extend their service for a full year, at the same price that was available when the service launched last November. Renewals can take place online or consumers can also purchase subscriptions cards from their favorite retailer. The monthly rate is perfect for those who want to test out Xbox Live, or for sports fans who only want to play during their favorite sports season. And for the first time, the Voice Communicator headset will be sold separately.

The starter kit, which includes the Voice Communicator, one year’s service and some fun pack-in games, is the perfect all-in-one choice for those wanting to experience the thrill on online gaming. Over $100 in value, the starter kit is all anyone needs to begin playing any Xbox Live game with players all over the world.

The new Xbox Live pricing options will go into effect this fall in North America. Details on pricing updates in other Xbox Live markets have yet to be announced.

More on Xbox Live at E3

Xbox Live will continue to evolve based on the feedback from the worldwide community of Live gamers. Stay tuned for exciting new Xbox Live features to be announced at next week’s Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3).