Microsoft isn’t bluffing: Gamers can log on to Xbox Live within the first 48 hours after launch and download ‘Texas Hold ‘em’ – completely free of charge! This full-featured poker title for Xbox Live Arcade on Xbox 360 will launch on Wednesday, 23rd August at 0800 GMT / 0900 CET. For 48 hours only – Wednesday, 23rd August until 0800 GMT/0900 CET on Friday, 25th August– as a special limited-time only promotion - gamers can download (and own) the game at no charge (for all Xbox Live Gold and Silver members). Starting at 0801 GMT / 0901 CET Friday, 25th August, ‘Texas Hold ‘em’ for Xbox Live Arcade will be available for 800 Microsoft Points.

Not only is ‘Texas Hold ’em’ free to all gamers, this title comes equipped with features that can only be found on Xbox 360. Designed to simulate the risk-reward of real poker gameplay, keep gamers honest, and discourage opponents from betting too recklessly, ‘Texas Hold ’em’ has an innovative new feature called Persistent Bankroll. Your virtual bankroll is tied to your Xbox Live Gamertag and keeps a running tally of your chip count. If you lose all of your chips in a poker game, you’ll have to play lower stakes buy-in games to make back your stack and earn your way to the big tables.

‘Texas Hold ’em’ also offers multiplayer support for up to eight gamers, three modes of gameplay (Standard Games, Scenarios and Tournaments), Achievements, extensive online leaderboards and statistics, and high-definition graphics. Enjoy poker night every night with friends, family and gamers around the world (please note that this title may not be available in some countries).