Computer manufacturer Dell is turning to its Alienware subsidiary to design future gaming PCs.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Dell plans to phase out four of its XPS models and combine the XPS gaming team with the Alienware staff. It had previously said that the two company lines would not overlap.

Alienware was acquired by Dell in March 2006 and is a popular brand of gaming machines, known for its 'for gamers by gamers' line of products.

Spokeswoman for Dell, Anne Camden said that the two brands will both live on, but there will be a new focus on Alienware.

"We are going to invest like crazy in product development, design and engineering to propel Alienware as the premier gaming brand in the future. We are integrating the best gaming product development, engineering and design teams in the industry."

She insisted that XPS remains an integral brand for Dell and its gaming systems will continue to be an important part of the company's gaming portfolio.

Last month Alienware announced its new Area-51m17x PC which it claimed was designed for PC gamers, 3D content creators and multi-media enthusiasts.