Today, Microsoft has announced that it is no longer taking subscriptions or membership renewals for its Xbox Live Indie Games platform.
The platform was created before ID@Xbox and allowed indie developers to self publish their games on the 360 console. According to Microsoft, the platform is beginning a “sunsetting process” as many developers are focusing on Windows 10 and the Xbox One.
Currently games under development are not scrapped however. The platform will still be in action for another year, ending fully on September 9th 2016. Players will still be able to download and play indie games that are currently in the store after the date, and developers will be paid the money they have earned after the platform closes for good.
Chris Charla, head of ID@Xbox described the moment as “bittersweet” and that it was Microsoft’s responsibility to ensure they “give independent developers the support they need to take the next step with us towards the future of gaming.” After the release of the Xbox One, the momentum of the indie development platform dipped as gamers migrated consoles. The news that it will be closing in a year’s time signal the slow passing out parade of the 360 console in favour for the current generation.
The ID@Xbox program is aimed as the spiritual successor to the indie developer platform and it is looks hopeful. With upcoming games like Cuphead and We Happy Few the sun doesn’t seem to be setting on indie developers for the Xbox One.
http://throwingdigitalsheep.com/microsoft-shut-xbox-live-indie-games/
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