Microsoft reveals Marketplace, live-linked games for Windows Phone 7 Series

Microsoft has revealed a much enhanced Marketplace for its forthcoming Windows Phone 7 Series mobile platform. The new app store, revealed at today’s MIX10 event, will feature credit card purchases, operator billing, and ad-supported content.

But the most striking thing about it at this point - much like Windows Phone 7 Series as a whole - is the way it looks. With everyone else seeming happy to ape the iPhone’s minimalistic approach, Microsoft’s boldly stylish offering (first seen on its US-only Zune HD) is a breath of fresh air.

The new Marketplace offers a now typical Windows Phone 7 ‘panoramic view,’ with various layers and fonts scrolling against each other to give a real sense of depth. It’s not all eye candy, though, as it’s a simple matter to view ratings, reviews, screen shots, and pricing information for each app.

Once you’ve bought your app, you can even pin it to the Quick Launch screen, which means that your favourite apps are only ever a click or two away.

Microsoft also took a little time to show off the platform’s gaming prowess and Xbox Live Arcade compatibility. It did this by presenting a brief clip of Harvest, an impressive-looking hack and slasher. The game (which will also be available on Microsoft’s console) features impressive, fully 3D graphics and unlockable achievements.