Microsoft Buys NetGames USA

Today, Microsoft announced the acquisition of NetGames USA, the developer of the ngWorldStats stats tracking service. As it currently works in games like Unreal Tournament, ngStats tracks multiplayer games and reports the stats in real-time to a central tracking site. Microsoft plans to integrate stats tracking into PC games shipping this holiday season, including MechWarrior 4: Vengeance. NetGames USA's staff has already largely relocated to the offices of the Microsoft Games Division, and it will also develop stats tracking services for the Xbox.

"NetGames USA is excited about this opportunity to bring these enhancements to Microsoft games and Zone.com," said Craig Sparks, president and CEO of NetGames USA. "But the real winners will be gamers, who will be able to more easily find appropriate gaming partners and enjoy other advanced gaming features."

Microsoft also unveiled plans for the Windows gaming logo program, which is intended to further ensure the quality of the PC gaming experience. Microsoft says it will soon release to hardware and game developers a draft specification of the certification requirements.