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Games for Windows marketplace relaunches

Microsoft opens new browser-based shop for digitally distributed PC titles; new storefront gets aesthetic overhaul, new features.

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No Caption Provided Mega digital distribution outlet Steam recently tallied its 30 millionth user, and Forbes is calling the service's boss, Gabe Newell, a "name you need to know in 2011." However, Microsoft isn't conceding the PC digital distribution fight just yet.

Today Microsoft relaunched its digital distribution PC marketplace. The new Games for Windows storefront is browser-based and sports a new aesthetic. The site's landing page displays four new and prominent titles. Additionally, tabs lower down on the page categorize titles in four ways: New Releases, Top Downloads, Live Enabled, and All Games.

The new landing page of the Games for Windows marketplace.
The new landing page of the Games for Windows marketplace.

The storefront boasts a title library 136 deep that includes games like Batman: Arkham Asylum, James Bond 007: Blood Stone, Dead Rising 2, and Lego Universe. Further, the online marketplace sports Deal of the Day and Deal of the Week promotions, with this week's deals being Borderlands ($10) and Osmos ($2.50) respectively.

Accepted methods of payment in the new Games for Windows marketplace include credit or debit card as well as Microsoft points. As mentioned, the new marketplace runs within a browser. However, to download purchased titles, users must first download and install the Games for Windows client.

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