Microsoft Rewards Xbox Live Users

Microsoft introduced its free Xbox Live Rewards program to give loyal customers recognition and rewards for using Xbox Live. Members of the program will earn Microsoft Points—the same currency used by Xbox Live—when they use the service to renew a membership, activate Netflix, purchase merchandise, and more.

According to Larry Hryb, aka Major Nelson, Microsoft's Xbox Live director of programming, users will also be able to earn points while playing games on Xbox Live. The rewards program is available to anyone with a free Xbox Live membership, but Gold members will have additional opportunities to earn points. The points can be used to purchase content and gear from the Xbox Live Marketplace.

As you may recall, Sony announced its own rewards program back in October known as PlayStation Rewards. However, this program is currently available by invite only to PlayStation Plus and Gamer Advisory Panel members. Sony has had it plans to make the program available to all PlayStation users in the spring.