Counter-Strike comes to Xbox today @ Gaming Target

Written by Matt Swider on November 18, 2003

News: Counter-Strike has arrived in stores today complete with Xbox Live features.

Microsoft and Valve made it official today as Counter-Strike, the world's most popular online action PC game, released for Xbox and is expected continue to set trends on Xbox Live by bringing unparalleled multiplayer tactical combat and new content exclusive to the system. The game includes all new counter-terrorist and terrorist teams, an impressive array of graphical enhancements and ultra-responsive controls optimized for Xbox. The heart-pounding action spans over 18 highly diverse maps including seven new multiplayer maps and 11 completely enhanced Counter-Strike fan favorites, as well as upcoming maps downloadable via Xbox Live.

"Counter-Strike and Xbox Live are a perfect match," said Counter-Strike co-creator Jess Cliffe. "Featuring advanced graphics, new maps and weapons, and introducing the official Counter-Strike bot, Counter-Strike for the Xbox is the most robust version of the world's number 1 online action game. By partnering with Microsoft to deliver this experience on Xbox Live, we hope to set a new benchmark for online console gaming."

The intense, team-based multiplayer combat of Counter-Strike for Xbox sprawls across 18 multiplayer maps and two thrilling game types: Bomb Defusal and Hostage Rescue. Players can battle against super-intelligent AI opponents offline in the single player game before taking their skills online against up to 16 players. Gamers have more than 20 real-life weapons at their disposal, including shotguns, sniper rifles, pistols and heavy weapons as well as new weapons effects such as grenade deafness and vision adjustments. HDTV and Dolby 5.1 support help add to the Counter-Strike experience, making gameplay even more compelling and immersive. Teammates can forget about frantically typing messages to each other; now they can bark orders at each other with the Xbox Communicator for the ultimate in tactical team-based play. The secure environment of Xbox Live ensures that gamers will experience nothing but cheat-free play.