At least one game maker wants free-to-play games on Xbox 360

But we're sure it's way, way more. VentureBeat has learned that Hi-Rez Studios, creators of free-to-play (F2P) multi-player shooters Global Agenda and Tribes: Ascension, is in talks with Microsoft to get F2P games on its current console. It's already known that the Redmond, Wash.-based Xbox 360 maker wants free games on its system, but this is the first time we've heard that a gamer developer actually wants in.

"There hasn't been a hi-res free-to-play game on the console yet, and we still don't have any definite announcements or dates, but we're actively working on it," Hi-Rez Studios COO Todd Harris told VentureBeat. "We are in talks with both console providers, specifically Sony and Microsoft, about how best to support free-to-play on consoles."

Right now, the only kinds of F2P gaming that exist on consoles are demos and the stable of free games available through PlayStation Home on the PS3. Considering 40 percent of F2P gamers pay up, we're sure that Microsoft will change that fact real quick. Well, unless the company suddenly developed an allergy to money.

Are you excited by the prospect of F2P games on consoles? How do you think or hope this will go down? Sound off in the comments. Add Comment.