Microsoft’s press briefing dropped a couple of surprises here and there, and while this isn’t one of them, it’s certainly worthwhile: release date for Resident Evil 5.

A live demonstration of the game was shown at the conference, confirming the presence of online co-op play within the game. They showed a player assuming the role of Sheva, Redfield’s new partner in the BSAA. They are shown working together to take down a variation of fast and slow zombies.

The most important bit: Resident Evil 5 is due out March 13, 2009 on PS3 and Xbox 360.