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At a games showcase in Cologne, Germany, Microsoft (News - Alert) introduced a new line of Xbox LIVE games exclusive to the Windows Phone (News - Alert) 7, just in time for the holidays. Microsoft is planning on releasing many more games and apps as this new feature evolves and grows.

This launch was done in hopes of tapping into the mobile apps market that the iPhone (News - Alert) and Android OS have a firm grasp on. This will help promote the Windows Phone 7, making it an ideal smartphone for the avid Xbox gamer.

Many Xbox LIVE users will be happy to know that they can bring their avatar they built on their Xbox 360 in the palm of their hand, including the full closet of clothing and accessories. This mobile counterpart of Xbox LIVE will also carry over any achievements and your Gamescore accumulated on the 360, in addition to building up more points and unlocking even more achievements on the Windows Phone 7.

Other features include messaging friends, tracking and comparing friend’s achievements and Gamescores, a Marketplace and library to access available games to play and buy, and a turn-based multiplayer function. There is also a feature called Spotlight which gives the user access to any upcoming new games that have been recently released or will be in the future, including other news for LIVE and other tips and tricks for games.

Many of the games released in the first wave include many established and recognizable titles such as Halo Waypoint, Guitar Hero 5 and Bejeweled LIVE, just to name a few.

Matt Booty, general manager of Microsoft Game Studios’ mobile gaming division, said in a statement, “Just like we've done with Xbox 360, our charter is to push the envelope and deliver definitive games that maximize the platform. We will have an incredible lineup of MGS titles, and that's just the beginning.”

This may be an answer to the failing numbers of Windows operated phones, and perhaps be the birth of a new way to experience mobile gaming.

Microsoft Game Studios could not be immediately reached for comment.