Microsoft have unveiled the pricing structure for Xbox Live on the Xbox 360. There are 2 options, Xbox Live Silver membership and Xbox Live Gold membership.

Xbox Live Silver membership is Free and allows players to create their own "digital identity" with an Xbox Live gamertag and personalized profile. Silver members will also be able to send and receive text and voice messages and join their friends on Xbox Live.

Xbox Live Gold membership, is currently priced at £39.99 for 12 months, those of you who dont want to be tied down to a yearly contract can pay £14.99 for 3 months or £4.99 for 1 month. There will also be subscription cards at shops and available through the Xbox Live Dashboard (via credit card).

Gold membership includes all the Silver membership benefits and also gives players access to online multiplayer gaming, enhanced matchmaking and feedback tools, along with exclusive privileges and rewards on the Xbox Live Marketplace.

"Credit cards will no longer be required to create an account on Xbox Live for Xbox 360, removing one of the biggest barriers to entry. Gamers can purchase 12-month Xbox Live subscription cards via cash or other payment methods at any participating retail store. Subscriptions will also be available for purchase by credit card in one-month, three-month and 12-month increments through the Xbox Live Dashboard."

Here is a full list of what Xbox Live 360 will offer:

Voice and Video Chat

Building on its popular voice communication feature, Xbox Live will enhance communication with the introduction of Party Chat to all paying Xbox Live members. This means you can talk to your friends anytime, anywhere on Xbox 360 online. Requires Xbox 360 Compatible Headset for Voice Chat and Xbox 360 Compatible Camera for Video Chat.

Enhanced Friends List

Not only will you be able to review a prospective friend's Gamercard to help determine whether or not to add them to your Friends List, but you'll also be able to see your friends' Friends Lists.

Marketplace

Using the Marketplace, find and download demos and trailers along with new game levels, maps, weapons, vehicles, skins, community-created content, and more.

Exclusive Programming

Xbox Live is always on - something's always happening. The exclusive Xbox Live Calendar is your destination for all information about events on Xbox Live. Play your favourite Xbox Live titles against real-world celebrity gamers through programs like Game with Fame and Mystery Gamer, and take part in unique promotions like Play and Win.

Enhanced Matchmaking

Multiplayer gaming is now truly as easy or as challenging as you want it to be. Several new features, like Gamercards, Gamer Profiles, and Gamer Zones, make meeting up with friends and competitors at your skill level easier than ever before!

Tournaments and Competitions

Xbox Live-sponsored tournaments will continue across a multitude of different titles and genres. More and more games will also support gamer-created tournaments on Xbox Live for Xbox 360.

Spectator Mode

This is the "virtual arcade," a chance for you to watch other gamers compete in supported titles. Games that support this feature will give you the ability to participate online without having to compete. Learn tips and tricks, or just sit back and enjoy the show.