Microsoft has revealed the official plans for its exciting online gaming initiative for the Xbox – Xbox Live. The Xbox Live service is scheduled to launch on November 15, 2002 (exactly one year after the US launch of the console) and the starter kit will retail for $49.95. This price includes the headset, a mini-game and one full year of active service (broadband-only).

A few lucky gamers will get into the Beta-testing program that launches this summer. If your info meets the criteria, you might be selected. Sign up here. (Note: You need to register on Xbox.com to sign up)

In an effort to boost sales of its Xbox video game console, Microsoft Corp. is offering a one-year subscription to its online gaming service for 6,800 yen ($55) in Japan. The starter package for Xbox Live, a service planned for North America, Europe and Japan this fall, will also include the online game Phantasy Star Online from Japanese game-maker Sega Corp.

Today at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Microsoft Corp. became the first video game company ever to announce a comprehensive online game service fully dedicated to fast-action, always-connected broadband gaming experiences. The online console gaming service, named Xbox Live, launches in North America, Japan and Europe this fall for the Xbox video game system and ramps up with consumer beta programs starting this summer.

LucasArts Entertainment Company LLC today announced its intent to develop versions of the company's highly anticipated first game of its Star Wars Galaxies online series for Xbox Live and PlayStation 2. Specific release dates for the Star Wars Galaxies-branded massively multiplayer games for the two next generation console platforms will be announced at a later time. This December LucasArts will release a Windows PC version of the game, developed by Sony Online Entertainment, titled Star Wars Galaxies: An Empire Divided.