TOKYO--Microsoft has announced that it is delaying the Japanese release of True Fantasy Live Online until winter 2004. Originally scheduled for release in spring, Microsoft decided to push back its upcoming Xbox-exclusive MMORPG rather than rush its development.

　　"Releasing the game in an incomplete state would be going against the expectations of the fans and the game industry," said Microsoft in a press release. "True Fantasy Live Online is being developed as the ultimate MMORPG on the Xbox Live. Because of that, there will be no compromise made in its development. We are working day and night to create a high quality game that takes full advantage of the Xbox live by using the latest technology."

　　Microsoft will begin beta-testing True Fantasy Live Online this summer, just prior to the game's release. The company has already stopped taking applications for beta testers, but additional players will be recruited once the beta test launches.

　　True Fantasy Live Online is being developed by Level-5, which is also working on Square Enix's upcoming major title Dragon Quest VIII. GameSpot got a good look at True Fantasy Live Online at the 2003 Tokyo Game Show.

　　No US release date for the game has been announced, though Microsoft confirmed last May that it will be released in North America.