Microsoft has launched Windows Vista around the world today, having promised that the new platform will bring significant benefits to gamers and game developers.

Vista introduces DirectX 10, a new graphics API that will give developers the advantage of new effects and techniques that the former Windows XP is unable to do.

Vista also introduces the Vista Games Explorer, which Microsoft says will make game installation management and saving data a lot easier.

Cross-platform multiplayer titles are also on the cards with integration with Xbox 360's online facilities and will soon include Shadowrun, Crysis, UNO, Age of Conan, Supreme Commander and Halo 2.

The platform will add Xbox 360's "achievements" system to existing titles, and permit users to see each other's online status and exchange messages regardless of platform.

The operating system is available in four versions priced between £100 and £250 (EUR 150 and 380).

To run the OS, users will need an 800MHz processor, 512MB RAM and a 15GB hard disk as a minimum.

>> Link - Official site/ Microsoft Windows Vista