Quote: "Yes, you have to own a commercial version of C++ 2008 if you want to use Microsoft's compiler to compile and sell your game."
Not really, you're free to use it Commercially. It's on MS's Express site FAQs.
Quote: "Can I use Express Editions for commercial use?
Yes, there are no licensing restrictions for applications built using Visual Studio Express Editions. "
More at:
http://www.microsoft.com/express/support/faq/default.aspx
Quote: "I don't know about the C++ express version but the C# express and VB.Net express do not compile for release. They only compile for Debug. "
AFAIK, they do compile code for release. The default settings have Trace constant and optmize code selected, so it's the same as VS Pro settings. It just doesn't allow multiple configurations as the Professional version, but you can change them in the Project's Properties.