One site to rule them all
In a somewhat counterintuitive move Microsoft has announced it's combining its Games for Windows Marketplace with Xbox.com. This marks the merging of Microsoft's PC gaming store into its hub for console gaming.
The only formal announcement made is on the homepage of gamesforwindows.com in the US, which says merely "Soon you can get all your gaming needs in one place," by means of explanation. Games for Windows Marketplace was launched last year, and this announcement was not reflected on the UK site at time of writing.
While there's a forum thread for this move, Microsoft has made no other public proclamations on the matter. PCMag.com got a bit more from a Microsoft spokesperson, but not much: "All user account information will remain the same and community members can still take advantage of their Xbox LIVE profile in their Windows games and stay connected to friends who are playing on the PC." There was also confirmation that the move will happen on 11 July.
Microsoft appears to be merging all its gaming properties under the one Xbox brand, regardless of the platform - console, PC or mobile device - they are played on. This is a sensible idea in principle, but it will need to ensure PC gamers don't feel sidelined.
In other Microsoft news, Reuters is reporting that Baidu - the dominant search engine in China - has selected Bing to power its English-language version both domestically and as part of its overseas expansion.
