Two years. It’s been two years since we launched the Games for Windows effort to improve the quality of PC games. Ever wonder why all PC games don’t support widescreen displays?  Or offer an easy install without 20 prompts? Or work with 64-bit Windows? So did we, and that’s why we created the Games for Windows program just two years ago. How’s it gone? Well, we’re now at over 85 games shipped that meet the requirements (check out the list at gamesforwindows.com, or for the technically inclined, dig into the technical requirements that every Games for Windows title must pass at MSDN.) and over 100 industry awards for games that met the bar.

And we’re not done yet – PC gaming has moved online faster than any other platform. We're investing in making Games for Windows – LIVE the best online gaming service choice for PC gamers. Earlier this year we made it free (long overdue), and soon we’ll be launching an even better version of the service, complete with an out-of-game client,  an interface designed just for the PC, and we’ll introduce our first ever Games for Windows – LIVE Marketplace.

But what does Niko Bellic have to do with any of this? Well, I’m happy to confirm that we’ve partnered with Rockstar Games to bring the PC version of “Grand Theft Auto IV” to Games for Windows and Games for Windows – LIVE. And it's coming with unique features for Windows gamers, like DirectX graphics, expanded online multiplayer and even in-game video recording. GTA IV joins Fallout 3 and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II coming to Games for Windows – LIVE over the next few months. What a lineup!

 Thanks for two great years, and keep the comments and feedback coming. We read every one :)

Gamerscore Blog via kevinu