Halo 2 on PC will require vista

Microsoft has announced that the PC version of Halo 2 will only work on the upcoming operating system, Windows Vista.

The decision could make it expensive for many to play the game if they have to buy the new version of Windows and extra hardware for their PC. Microsoft has given no definite release date for Vista but it is expected to be available by the end of 2006.

Deciding to make the best-selling Halo 2 Xbox game a Vista-only title is likely driven by Microsoft’s desire to get people upgrading to the new version of the Windows.

Here are some of the FAQs from the official bungee announcement, as you can lots of ‘we haven’t announced x at this this time‘:

Q: Why are you releasing Halo 2 for Windows Vista only?
A: As Bungie Studios and Microsoft are dedicated to delivering a top quality translation of Halo 2 for the PC, their efforts require the use of the best available technological platform for Windows games. Windows Vista will help bring clarity to our customers and help them get more out of their personal computing experience, allowing them to focus on what matters most to them.

Q: Why is Halo 2 for Windows Vista not backwards compatible?
A: To deliver an optimal gameplay experience, Windows Vista will provide a great platform on which to bring to Halo 2. Microsoft and Bungie Studios will provide additional information at a later date.

Q: Is the release of Halo 2 for Windows Vista just a way to force consumers to purchase the new operating system?
A: Absolutely not. Bungie Studios and Microsoft’s steadfast commitment to quality determined that the Windows Vista platform would provide the best possible version of Halo 2 for the Windows PC. We will provide you with more details in the future.

Q: What are the minimum system requirements?
A: We have not yet announced any specifics in regard to system requirements at this time.

Q: When is Halo 2 for Windows Vista coming out?
A: We have not yet announced a release date for Halo 2 for Windows Vista at this time.

Q: Will there be a Mac version of Halo 2?
A: We have not announced any details of a Mac version at this time.

Q: What Windows Vista features will be used to enhance Halo 2 for Windows Vista?
A: We have not yet announced specific Vista features or enhancements at this time.

Q: Will Halo 2 for Windows Vista include support for the USB 360 controller?
A: We have not yet announced any details on hardware or peripheral support at this time.

Q: Will there be any new content in the Vista version?
A: Halo 2 for Windows Vista will feature both the single-player and multiplayer elements of the original Halo 2, as well as each of the additional maps included in the Halo 2 Multiplayer Map Pack. Players will also have the opportunity to create and customize their own multiplayer levels.

Q: Will Halo 2 for Windows Vista support higher resolutions than the Xbox version?
A: We have not yet announced visual or graphical details at this time.

Q: Will Halo 2 for Windows Vista support cross-platform multiplayer?
A: Halo 2 for Windows Vista will not support cross-platform play.

Q: Will PC players be able to play against Xbox players?
A: We have not yet announced details on cross-platform integration at this time.

Both Halo 1 and 2 run on the the original Xbox, so whether this games really needs a higher spec cpu is arguable. The decision to make this PC title Vista only could end up backfiring.

Source - BBC

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