Microsoft has announced that Halo 2 will be the first game to allow cross-platform play when it is released for the PC later in the year. PC gamers will be able to play against those who already have the game on Xbox via the consoles online Live service.

The success of Xbox Live and Microsoft’s commitment to "Games for Windows" is the spur for the move which will see Xbox Live combining with Games for Windows Live, a similar service to the already popular Xbox gaming service. Similar to the Xbox Live service the Games for Windows Live will have two account levels ; a free Silver version, and a Gold version which will allow players the cross-platform compatibility and other features for a $49.95 per year subscription fee.

Halo 2 will be released in the US on May 18.