Global computer games specialist Babel Media has been chosen by Microsoft to become a tester for its new Xbox video games system.

Babel, based in Fonthill Road, Hove, will help games developers and publishers ensure their titles are compatible with the console.

As part of the deal, Microsoft will supply Babel with technical support, training and equipment to help it carry out its authorised Xbox testing programme.

Babel has already worked on several Xbox titles, including The Incredibles, Black Hawk Dawn, Conflict Vietnam, Terminator 3 and Championship Manager.

It was only one of three test houses in Europe chosen to support Xbox, which was launched to challenge Sony's dominance in the console market.

Babel's list of clients include Microsoft, Sony, Sega, Nintendo, Atari, Eidos, THQ, Capcom, Disney, SCi, NovaLogic and Namco.

Managing director Algy Williams said the Xbox deal was a great milestone for the company and provided it with the tools and training necessary to deliver the highest quality service.

A Babel spokesman said it was selected on the basis of its track record, current client services and security, quality training and infrastructure.

The company employs 150 full-time and freelance testers working on localisation making games work in different countries and online and technical support.

Increasingly Babel is working on more complex, multi-language titles that require the full range of its services, which cover audio, print and marketing.

The company, which made £3.6million in sales last year, has offices in New Dehli and Santa Monica, Los Angeles, where it operates under the name of Babel Media USA.

Los Angeles is in the same time zone as many US publishers and a major centre for the US wireless industry.