Elves, Vulcans and human fans attending Gen Con can enjoy some hands-on experience with six of the hottest upcoming games from Microsoft Game Studios. Gen Con takes place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from August 8-11, and is recognized as the largest convention in the nation for science fiction, fantasy, and general game-playing fans. Gamers will be able to get their hands on three real-time strategy games from Microsoft: "Age of Mythology," Ensemble Studios' highly anticipated 3-D strategy title of mythical proportions; "Rise of Nations," which combines the epic scope of "Civilization" with the fast-paced action of RTS games; and "Impossible Creatures," a 3-D RTS that allows gamers to create their own unique army by using Earth's most formidable animals as building blocks. Also on display: "Asheron's Call 2 Fallen Kings," the sequel to "Asheron's Call," the popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game; "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries," the latest installment of the hugely popular "MechWarrior" franchise; and "Freelancer," a space adventure that allows players to choose the life of a bounty hunter, trader, pirate or explorer.

Fans attending Gen Con will receive a coupon that they can redeem at the Microsoft booth for an "Asheron's Call 2 Fallen Kings" beta CD. Tournaments for "Rise of Nations," "MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries" and "Asheron's Call 2 Fallen Kings" will be held throughout the convention. For more information and to participate in any of these tournaments, please visit the Microsoft booth during the show.