Mike: Since the beginning, we have been developing this game for both the PC and a next generation console platform. We are just now announcing our plans to bring the game to the Xbox as the console platform. One important reason is the opportunity for establishing this as one of the first strong RPG experiences on this new platform.
Casey: We are focusing specifically on each platform from a design and technology standpoint, and the team is committed to making a great Xbox experience, as well as a great PC experience.
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LucasArts.com: How are launch dates determined for each platform?
Mike: We are planning to launch the Xbox version this coming fall, followed by the PC version next spring. One reason for this platform timing relates to other LucasArts PC release plans for the coming year. With the Star Wars Galaxies RPG also planned for the PC this fall, we want to provide some space between these two games.
LucasArts.com: How will the versions of the game vary by platform?
Casey: Each version will have a specifically designed interface that is best suited to those game players. We've also tried to make the design as flexible as possible so that it's accessible to a lot of people, but also has the depth that RPG players expect. We'll also be taking advantage of as many of the hardware capabilities as possible on each platform.
We will announce additional platform specific features as the release dates for each version approach.
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LucasArts.com: Will this game be like Baldur's Gate I & II?
Mike: We wanted to work with BioWare on this game because of their expertise and tremendous success with RPG games like Baldur's Gate I and II.
Casey: The game is visually different then anything that BioWare has done before, even Neverwinter Nights. I think that you can expect the same type of rich story and characters as in the Baldur's Gate series, along with a completely new combat system and interface.
LucasArts.com: When and how can we find out more?
Mike: Aside from the information on this site, we will be talking about the game quite a bit in the coming weeks and months, starting with the April issues of Official Xbox Magazine and Computer Games Magazine. Then we'll be showing the game at the Electronic Entertainment Exposition (E3) show in May, plus extensive magazine and web stories.
Casey: We'll also be doing chats and keeping up with everyone on the official game forums, which launch today
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