Today Microsoft finally started to get realistic about Games for Windows Live and the fact that no one is going to pay for multiplayer on their PC.  As of today’s date, all Games for Windows Live features are free, no longer requiring players to pay for a $50 annual membership. 

Also, Microsoft re-announced their intent to create a Games for Windows Live marketplace,  Not sure if it is the exact same thing as the Live Marketplace that was suppose to have happened by now, but it will have arcade games available for download.

Also, developer hurdles to the live service will be lessened as Microsoft has removed some of the requirements for making Games for Windows Live games, while admitting that a redesign of the Games for Windows Live system will be coming this fall.  The new redesign will be designed with the PC strengths in mind, so I doubt we will see Avatars or anything of that sort.

Also, two new Games for Windows games were announced.  Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War II and Battlestations: Pacific.  Not sure if they are Live enabled or they will just have the Games for Windows branding, but both will be out this fall, so we will find out sooner than later.  Also, what do the Xbox Live gamers have to say about this, as they still have to pay $50 a year?