Microsoft really had some strong announcements this time around. We learned not only about the announcements of Halo: Reach, Metal Gear: Rising, Left 4 Dead 2, and Project Natal (Milo demo was interesting), but we also learned that the Xbox LIVE system will be getting Facebook and Twitter functionality.

Also, we learned that Halo: ODST would be released come September 22nd and if you purchase it you would be eligible for the Halo: Reach multiplayer beta when that project is ready. In other game news, Final Fantasy XIII will also be coming to the Xbox 360.

While Microsoft saved their Project Natal announcement for the end, I have been a big fan of Halo for a while and thought that and the L4D2 announcement were more exciting. Overall, I would give Microsoft a big two thumbs-up for their presser this year. It was entertaining as well as showed a lot of variety of products off.

Stay-tuned to our LIVE coverage of Electronic Art’s press conference at 2PM, pt.