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Choose an Identity: Latest Microsoft PC Games Plunge Players Into New Worlds for Holidays

Time: 07:44 EST/12:44 GMT | News Source: ActiveWin.com | Posted By: Julien Jay

Whether it�s creating a zoo packed with wild animals and excited guests; piloting real aircraft with working instruments; trekking over vast stretches of terrain on more than 600 miles of rail; letting it ride at three glamorous Las Vegas casinos; or hitting the links on 13 world-class golf courses, every member of the family can enjoy the newest in Microsoft� PC games this holiday season. The hardest part is choosing an identity:

Be a zookeeper. The Microsoft "Zoo Tycoon�" game (estimated retail price: $34.95 (U.S.)), brings roaring lions, sprinting cheetahs and waddling penguins together to test the creativity and business acumen of players of all ages. A simulation-style game, "Zoo Tycoon" challenges players to make a million dollars (or more) by building a thriving animal park.
Be a pilot. In Microsoft "Flight Simulator 2002" (estimated retail price: $54.95 (U.S.) Standard, $74.95 (U.S.) Professional), players step into the cockpit and navigate the most advanced aircraft in the world, including a Cessna� Caravan amphibious floatplane and Boeing 747-400 jumbo jet. Players use an interactive air traffic control system to ask permission to taxi and take off, request clearances en route, and listen to instructions as they approach and land. Auto-generated 3-D scenery and crowded skies paint breathtaking views, and multiplayer capability enables friends and families to join the flight.
Be an engineer. In Microsoft "Train Simulator" (estimated retail price: $54.95 (U.S.)), players experience the sights and sounds of famous trains, past and present, by riding the rails on six famous train routes, including the Orient Express, Flying Scotsman and Kyushu Railway. Fully authentic steam, diesel and electric locomotives are replicated to the finest detail, complete with authentic sounds. Real-world rail activities challenge engineers, and the game design gives players the option of creating custom railways.
Be a high roller. In Microsoft "Bicycle� Casino Games" (estimated retail price: $24.95 (U.S.)), players virtually deal into the most popular casino-style games at three glamorous Las Vegas resorts, earning points toward the exclusive no-limit, "high roller" area. The luxurious Mirage�, Bellagio� and Treasure Island at The Mirage� set the stage for 17 detailed games of chance, including Blackjack, Caribbean Stud� Poker, Roulette, Video Poker and more. Special tournament and challenge options also allow head-to-head competition with game characters, each with unique playing styles.
Be a golf pro. In Microsoft "Links� Championship Edition" (estimated retail price: $54.95 (U.S.)), players step into the tee boxes of the most celebrated golf courses in the world, matching virtual clubs with professional golfers like Sergio Garcia, Annika Sorenstam, Mike Weir and more. Fully detailed holes add realism and challenge, and the Arnold Palmer Course Designer allows players to re-create their own hometown courses.

Whether it�s "Zoo Tycoon," "Flight Simulator 2002," "Train Simulator," "Bicycle Casino Games" or "Links Championship Edition," each game puts a new face on the holidays and gift giving, and introduces young and old, friends and family to the unique experiences PC games can offer. All these titles can be acquired through authorized Microsoft PC games distributors, as well as at http://www.microsoft.com/games/.