Tapping into Microsoft's Xbox gaming smarts is sure to be one of the biggest draws of the Windows Phone partnership for Nokia users, and Microsoft has just revealed new details on Windows Phone Mango's updated Games Hub.

Windows Phone Mango Hands-on: what Nokia users have to look forward to

Windows Phone 7 is different in many ways from Windows Mobile before it, but one of the most significant is a much-improved approach to gaming. Now Microsoft has revealed Mango, its first major update to the platform and the version Nokia's first Windows Phones will have on board – and we're pleased to say those gaming skills are bumped up to a whole new level.

In a detailed post on the Windows Phone blog, Microsoft's Shirlene Lim reveals that the Games Hub is getting a fresh new look to further integrate with the Xbox LIVE network, and will have as standard many of the features previously only found in the Xbox LIVE Extras app.

Downloaded games are now easier to organise and browse than before, including touches like being able to see the last three games you've played so you can quickly access your favourite titles.

Avatars play a big part in Xbox LIVE, and Mango supports fully animated 3D avatars as standard. They can wave at you, yawn, will break out dancing if you shake the phone, and more – it's all about adding to the fun. This was previously only part of Xbox LIVE Extras.

Other features that will now be standard include better Xbox LIVE messaging and social networking tools, including being able to manage friend requests directly from your phone, and check out your gaming mates' high scores and achievements directly from your handset.

You can edit your own Xbox LIVE profile directly from your phone, while the Spotlight feature for bringing you the latest news and info from the gaming world has also been updated. Lastly, Mango brings improvements to multiplayer gaming too, making it easier to track and respond to game invites.

It's a lot to look forward to, and don't forget these are gaming features you'll be able to tap into straight from your Nokia Windows Phone's homescreen!

Are you an avid gamer? We'd love to hear your thoughts on how gaming on Nokia smartphones is set to change with the switch to Windows Phone. Let us know in the Comments below...