Microsoft is Bringing Xbox Live to the Mobile Market

Cooperation between Microsoft and French games publisher Gameloft is set to bring Xbox Live to mobile devices. Gameloft is responsible for a range of highly successful mobile titles.

This deal will bring several Xbox Live exclusive features to a select few Gameloft games. So far we know that CT, Asphalt 8: Airbourne and Dragon Mania Legends will benefit from the agreement. Gameloft had the following to say:

“As one of the first partners to support Xbox Live on mobile devices, we seek to provide to our community more ways to experience our games and extend their fun, while seamlessly continuing to bring console, PC and mobile together.”

So what exactly is being added? These games will gain access to leaderboards, friends, and Xbox achievements. Integration with Xbox Live friends and achievements is a big deal. It should increase the potential for more ambitious online functionality, an area heavily lacking in the current mobile market. This also offers more opportunities for achievement hunters to pick up some extra gamerscore for their accounts.

Unfortunately, as often the case with large companies, every positive comes coupled with a negative. Microsoft has upped the price for Xbox Live Gold in the UK to be in line with its main competitor, Sony. One month of Gold is up from £5.99 to £6.99, three months is now £17.99 and a year’s membership will cost a steep £49.99. This has been increased from the previous price of £39.99. All US prices remain the same.

Even with this price increase, most will agree Xbox Live Gold is an overall good deal for customers. On top of the ability to play online, members also get free games every month to build up their library. The free games for this month are Marooners, Earth Defense Force: Insect Armageddon, The Golf Club, and Comic Jumper.