If you look at the average gamer’s computer, chances are that they are running some iteration of Microsoft’s Windows operating system. Whether it be Windows 98, ME, or 2000 (Or one of the other many flavors), Microsoft clearly has a stranglehold on the OS market. However, ask that same gamer what they think of Windows and you are sure to get a less than positive response.

All previous versions of Windows have had some major problem that made it a nuisance to use – Windows 98 frequently required rebooting and crashed often, Windows ME had many initial driver problems and still had problems with stability, and Windows 2000 had poor game support. In October, Microsoft plans to release the next edition of Windows, dubbed Windows XP, which will fix these problems. After using Windows XP as my primary operating system for the last three months, I can honestly say that this may finally be the OS that puts Microsoft into the good graces of gamers.