In news that can raise the eyebrows of RPG fans worldwide, Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi has joined Microsoft Game Studios to develop two unspecified RPG titles for the Xbox's successor.

"I'm excited about the two epic game titles we will be developing," Sakaguchi said. "A number of talented creators have signed on to help develop these games, and I'm confident we will be able to create games that provide gamers with a new kind of thrill.

"Microsoft's cutting-edge technologies in the next-generation platform will allow me to bring to life an array of ideas that I have had for many years," Sakaguchi said. "I want these games to be alive with a new vision for gaming and vividly depict new characters that will transcend the game, find a place in the hearts of gamers, and make time spent with my games a fond and long-lasting memory."

While no confirmation was made whether a Final Fantasy game is in development, the fact that both titles will be Xbox-exclusive may very well give the Xbox's successor an advantage in the next generation of console wars that is due to start as early as next year.

Ramzy Philip