At its pre-E3 press conference today, Microsoft has unveiled the initial details of its online network for the Xbox. Called Xbox Live, a starter kit for the service will be sold at retail stores and will contain an Xbox Communicator (a headset to be used in online Xbox games that will allow real-time voice chat between players), installation software, and assorted software demos.

　　Final details on the software to be packed in have not been set, but one game that is already confirmed is an online version of Acclaim's Re-Volt. The arcade-style racing game has been brought over to the Xbox with online play features and Xbox Communicator support. During a recent trip to Microsoft's Redmond offices, we were able to see the game up and running with online play already enabled.

　　A time frame for the service has not been announced, but Microsoft recently mentioned that it should be available 12 weeks before Christmas. To further entice players to take advantage of the service, Microsoft is aiming to release one Xbox Live-compatible game per week from the service's launch date until Christmas. In addition, Microsoft intends to spend $1 billion on its Xbox Live network. The company will set up networking hubs in Seattle, Tokyo, and London that will surpass the capacity of the company's own Microsoft.com.

　　Pricing for the service will be broken up into a variety of plans to allow consumers to choose a plan that best suits them. The main offering will cost roughly $50 for a year of service. Installment plans of roughly $10 per month will also be available.

　　Stay tuned for further details about Xbox Live and its starting lineup of games.