'Adding a fourth UK-based studio to the incredible roster of talent already in place across Rare Ltd, Soho Productions and Lionhead not only increases our in-region studio presence, but will allow Microsoft Studios to explore the many creative and business opportunities that developing new games and entertainment experiences on Windows 8 tablet devices and platforms will afford.

ENGADGET: Microsoft announces new entertainment and game studio focused on Windows 8 tablet development

"Microsoft get a lot of things right, " said Jason Kingsley, founder of Rebellion Studios, which currently sells games on Valve's Steam platform.

BBC: Minecraft screenshot