If you were thinking all the cards in the Microsoft vs Google have been played, you are mistaken. There is one strength of Microsoft that Google cannot interfere in that is gaming and the Xbox. Google does not yet have presence to be able to make a dent.
It is only the intention of Microsoft that is out and it does have the luxury of time on its side. In advertising for a recent senior position, Microsoft could actually be declaring its intentions to the world. Microsoft could actually be toying with the idea of developing a common platform for the desk top and mobiles, combining the best of Xbox, Zune and Windows Mobile and evolve a platform where gaming can become flexible and can be accessed seamlessly from a mobile or desk top.
Microsoft calls this strategy “Live”. The first step in the strategy of Microsoft seems to be developing a “Live” community which will be enabled by a casual and social platform across the web, console, mobile and beyond. Microsoft is probably already conjuring images of invading and dominating all the three existing screens as on today and any that may appear tomorrow.
Initially Microsoft has launched Xbox Live Community games in 2008 and these were introduced to Zune and next month Zune HD is being launched. The next logical step would be provide Windows Mobile capability. Although this has not yet begun the process is under way.
I wonder what will happen to all other gaming companies? They will be either forced to conform or whittle away?
