Free Xbox Live on the way?

Could Microsoft's plans to make Live on Windows free have a welcome effect on its world-class console?

Game hungry Vista users will be able to use Live on Windows for free according to Microsoft. During a chat with 1Up.com, company Big Cheese Shane Kim said that gamers would not have to lash out to take on all comers via their PC, unlike Xbox Live, where users must pay for Gold membership.

Kim said that competition in the multiplayer PC world was a major reason for offering players the chance to battle it out for free. Beyond the fact that you'll be strafing strangers for nothing on your PC, this could be good news for Xbox users too.

Microsoft are already planning to integrate the Live platform from their console to PCs, and if this free service takes off, don't be surprised if your beloved 360 multiplayer goes gratis in the future too. Stay glued for the latest on Microsoft's plans.