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Microsoft has announced the release of XNA Game Studio 2.0, the next generation of the popular game development platform for Xbox 360 and Windows. The new version builds on Game Studio Express and includes the ability to create online and cross-platform multiplayer games using Xbox LIVE and Games for Windows LIVE. Version 2.0 also adds more than 15 new features.
“When building XNA Game Studio 2.0, we wanted to offer everyone the opportunity to utilise the rich gaming environment of LIVE used by AAA developers for titles such as ‘Halo 3’ and ‘Gears of War,'” said Chris Satchell, general manager of the XNA organization at Microsoft. “We accomplished our goal with this new toolset, and, best of all, it remains highly accessible to students, hobbyists and pros alike.”
The addition of LIVE support means developers can now integrate features including matchmaking with minimal coding required.
Microsoft is also ready to launch Dream-Build-Play 2008, following last year’s event which saw four community developed games awarded Xbox LIVE Arcade publishing contracts.
This year Microsoft will once again be challenging aspiring developers to create their dream games for the chance to win a publishing contract. The event kicks off with the Silicon Minds Warm-Up Challenge, with registration available from December 14. Winners will be announced at the Games Developers Conference, as will details of the main challenge. Prizes for the Warm-Up Challenge will include the opportunity to interview for an internship with Microsoft Research’s Machine Learning Group, Rare or Lionhead Studios
“Artificial intelligence is so important to the games we make at Lionhead Studios, and we are very excited to see what the community can come up with in this Warm-Up Challenge to Dream-Build-Play 2008,” said Peter Molyneux, managing director at Lionhead Studios.
More information about Dream-Build-Play 2008 can be found over on the event’s official website.
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