October 19^th, 2005 (2:45pm) - Microsoft has 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.