Microsoft today announced the retail availability of its first cross-platform game controller and the latest addition to the Microsoft Game Precision Series. The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows works with Windows XP-based PCs and the Xbox 360 system, with an enhanced ergonomic design, force feedback vibration support and a familiar button layout across both platforms.

"For the first time, gamers can simply unplug their controller from their Xbox 360 system and plug it into their Windows XP-based PC," said Chris Donahue, director of the Windows gaming and graphics team at Microsoft.

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows retail product will include a driver for Windows XP-based PCs. The wired Xbox 360 Controller, which comes with the core Xbox 360 system, will also work on Windows XP-based computers after users download the available driver from Microsoft. The Controller has a 9-foot breakaway controller cable that plugs into a standard USB port.

The Xbox 360 Controller for Windows is widely available in North America for an estimated retail price of $39.99 (U.S.) and will be released soon in Europe and Asia. The driver will also be available via download from Windows Update at http://www.windowsupdate.com and the Microsoft Hardware Web site at http://www.microsoft.com/hardware.