Microsoft wants you to feel young again

LOS ANGELES, Calif.–Microsoft is counting on a blend of old and new to help make the Xbox 360 stand out from its rivals.

The software maker showed off forthcoming exclusive titles such as “Fable 2” at a press conference prior to the Electronic Entertainment Expo trade show here, but it also touted new partnerships that will bring classic games like “Ms. Pac Man” and “Paperboy” to the Xbox 360’s Live Arcade feature.

“We’re making sure your misspent youth can stay with you as long as you want it to,” Microsoft Vice President Peter Moore said in a press briefing at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. The company announced deals with Konami, Midway, Sega and Namco to breathe new life into classic titles such as “Dig Dug,” “Sonic the Hedgehog” and “Root Beer Tapper.”

The company also announced plans to bring out “Forza Motorsport 2,” a sequel to its popular auto-racing game, in time for this year’s holidays. The game will be paired with a new wireless, force-feedback steering wheel accessory. In October 2007, “Grand Theft Auto IV” will launch for the Xbox, with exclusive add-on content available on Xbox Live.

Read more: CNET News.com