Windows 8 gaming line-up revealed

Microsoft's Windows 8 gaming drive has been previewed ahead of the next-gen OS' release, with details on the initial line-up of titles being leaked as the company readies a cross-platform attack. Eleven launch games have been confirmed to The Verge, along with the promise of Pinball and Solitaire being preloaded in the Windows 8 Consumer Preview; the bulk of the titles will be distributed via the Windows Store, however.

The line-up includes well-known casual games like Angry Birds along with Reckless Racing and Toy Soldiers. No word from the source as to whether the titles will be paid or free, though Microsoft has said before that, during the pre-official launch later this year, only free apps will be supported in the Windows Store.

The preview Windows Store – and the Consumer Preview of Windows 8 – are expected to be released later this month. Recent leaks suggest Microsoft has killed off the Start button, though that won't be confirmed until the preview arrives.

Of course, there's more to Microsoft's gaming strategy than Solitaire. The company has previously said that it plans to integrate Xbox LIVE into the new PC OS, just as it has with Xbox 360 and Windows Phone. That opens the door to cross-platform challenges and more.

  • Hydro Thunder
  • Toy Soldiers
  • Reckless Racing
  • Angry Birds
  • Ilomilo
  • Rocket Riot
  • Full House Poker
  • Tentacles
  • Crash Course
  • Ms Splosion Man
  • Wordament