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New Microsoft studio to 'revolutionize' gameplay

360 motion-control camera rumors further stoked by job listing that reveals the software giant is forming an all-new game studio to change "both WHAT you play and HOW you play."

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With Microsoft's E3 Press Conference less than three days away, speculation about the software giant's announcements are reaching a fever pitch. Besides unconfirmed reports of a Metal Gear Solid 4 port and a new Peter Molyneux game the top rumor is for a new motion-sensing camera controller for the Xbox 360.

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The latter rumor got a further boost this week, courtesy of a job listing from Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices division, which makes the Xbox 360 and soon-to-be-Xbox Live-compatible Zune HD. Specifically, the listing is for a "Sr. Environment Artist" at an all-new internal developer at Microsoft Game Studios, publisher of such games as Gears of War 2, Halo 3: ODST, and the just-announced Lips: Number One Hits. Hinting heavily at some sort of new control scheme for an all-new property, the description reads as follows:

Are you interested in shipping innovative games that will change the way people play? If so, we want you to join our team to work on an amazing next-generation project, built from the ground up, in Microsoft Game Studios. We are building a NEW GAME STUDIO from the ground up that will revolutionize both WHAT you play and HOW you play. You have the chance to get in on the ground floor and work with professionals responsible for some of the industry's greatest innovations to date. (Emphasis in the original.)

We're looking for a talented, motivated and experienced Sr. Environment Artist. This is a rare opportunity to join a seasoned, creatively driven team on an exciting next-generation project. Qualified individuals are expected to communicate and collaborate well throughout a development team, and have a proven track record in creating AAA art for games. Candidates will have experience creating a broad range of styles in both 2D and 3D mediums. Be well versed in programs like Photoshop and Maya, as well as demonstrate experience with current console art creation techniques like shader development, normal map creation, and high polygon modeling.

As of press time, Microsoft reps had not commented on the job listing, which may--or may not--pertain to announcements at next week's Electronic Entertainment Expo.

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