Now that LucasArts is bringing multiplayer options to the Dark Forces universe in Jedi Knight, you might have expected the guardians of The Force to go it alone by setting up their own online servers like Westwood and Blizzard. Rather than go the rebel route, LucasArts is aligning itself with the Imperial online troops of Bill Gate's Microsoft Internet Gaming Zone.

The deal makes the Zone LucasArts preferred host for its new Internet-capable games. The first game to go live under the agreement is Outlaws, to be followed shortly by X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter, Jedi Knight and Rebellion. To keep the focus on LucasArts, gamers will reach the games via a branded launch area called Rebel HQ at www.rebelhq.com. In addition to lobbies and chat rooms, game and Internet FAQs are be available. --George T. Chronis