Introducing the Xbox Arcade is not the only play Microsoft is making for families. The company has responded to parents who want to put limits on kids' video game playing but often end up battling with their children when the time comes to shut it down.

Microsoft announced it will add a timer to limit playing time on Xbox consoles daily or weekly. When the timer reaches its limit, the console will turn off.

Microsoft's Windows Vista computer OS has a similar feature. And the Xbox 360 already allows parents to restrict the kind of games played based on content ratings.

Robbie Bach, Microsoft's entertainment and devices division president, said the company's research shows that parents miss the ability to electronically enforce time limits they verbally put in place. Which, I can only assume from personal experience, are often ignored.

LINK: Microsoft adds new parental controls to Xbox 360 [Reuters]

Related: Hands-on Review: BOB the TV Time Manager

Video Game Target: The Family