Microsoft has created a division of its Xbox unit to focus on creating original, television-style entertainment. In addition to the Steven Spielberg Halo project, it's also working on a documentary program that looks at street soccer players around the world.

Every Street United will be an episodic, 30-minute show that focuses on undiscovered street soccer players around the world, in countries inluding the U.S., Spain, Holland, France, Argentina, Brazil, Ghana, and South Korea. Deadline Hollywood reports that the final episode of the series will be shot at the 2014 World Cup.

The show is produced by Mandalay Sports Mediam, and some episodes will be directed by Jonathan Hock, who directed the acclaimed ESPN 30 for 30 documentaries The Best That Never Was (on running back Marcus Dupree) and Survive and Advance (about the 1983 NC State Wolfpack team coached by Jim Valvano).

Reportedly, the show, like many of the Microsoft entertainment projects, will feaure interactive features of some kind.

Source: Deadline Hollywood

Our Take:

It's not what I expected from Microsoft, but I'm pleased that they have hired Hock to direct, as the Marcus Dupree 30 for 30 was one of my favorites. It's also a sign that Microsoft has an eye to producing content that appeals not just to the U.S., but Europe and other world markets.