Chris Early appointed general manager for Windows Live

Microsoft has appointed Chris Early, currently the studio manager for Microsoft casual games, as general manager for Games for Windows Live effective July 9.

Prior to his employment with Microsoft, Early was president and COO of GameSpy Industries.

Microsoft reports that Early will work to "bridge the gap" between PC and consoles, which includes adding Xbox Live-type features to PC titles and assisting developers in integrating Games for Windows Live into upcoming releases. Games such as Shadowrun and Universe at War allow PC gamers and Xbox 360 gamers to play each other across their respective platforms.

Interim Xbox Live group manager Bryan Trussel will replace Early as head of Microsoft casual games.