Xbox Live launches

Microsoft has announced that the Xbox Live starter kit is now available in stores. The kit includes the headset required for voice communication with other players while playing online, as well as demo versions of THQ's MotoGP and Microsoft Game Studios' Whacked!

"The online arena is officially open, and the days of sitting alone silently playing video games in the living room are over," said J Allard, general manager of Xbox at Microsoft. "We're thrilled to be bringing the next step in social entertainment and community to console gaming. This is uncharted territory for most players, and we can't wait to see friends connect and have rivals duke it out to become the superstars and heroes of Xbox Live."

The Xbox Live starter kit is available for $49.95, and it includes a 12-month subscription. For more details, check out our page dedicated to Xbox Live.