Microsoft To Announce Indie Self-Publishing, New Certification Process
Another
unpopular Microsoft policy appears to be heading for the history books. Sources tell Game Informer that the company is reversing course on its publishing requirements. This will allow independent studios to access digital distribution without a publishing partner.
Independent publishing was a key platform in Sony's E3 2013 press conference, bringing a number of
developers on stage. Supergiant Games'
Transistor, Abe's Oddysee: New 'n' Tasty from Oddworld Inhabitants and Just Add Water, and Don't Starve from
Mark of the Ninja studio Klei Entertainment were just some of the titles on display.
In contrast, criticism of Microsoft's curated approach to its marketplace has amplified in recent months, with several former partners saying they will
never work with them again. Oddworld creator Lorne Lanning boldly
said of Microsoft's indie policy, "There's one party that's making it very clear they're not interested."
The cacophony of naysayers drove Microsoft to rethink its position. Under the new directive, developers can set their own release dates and pricing, which should make the erratic nature of Xbox Live releases less problematic for creators who want to handle their own marketing.
Additionally, we have learned that Microsoft is drastically overhauling its certification process. The company will use a model similar to iTunes and is targeting a 14-day turnaround for an approvals. Instead of extensive code checking, the company will be looking for terms of service violations and significant bugs.
We've also been told, but cannot confirm, that every Xbox One unit can be converted to a debug console. Instead of specific hardware units, Microsoft can authorize a console ID to play pre-release code. This is in line with information we've received about a new process for beta tests. They will be run via hardware provisioning on Xbox One, with the process reportedly to be enabled for up to 25,000 users per test at launch. Given the ability to provision for beta testing, the ability to enable retail hardware for pre-release code seems feasible.
We've reached out to Microsoft for comment.
Our Take
These are big steps for Microsoft. This puts them back in the game with independent developers, which was still a major weakness. The debug kit feature won't have an impact for most gamers, but it saves Microsoft money and hassle putting them into the hands of those who need them.
The certification process change is significant, as it will make it easier for developers to get to market and start earning instead of waiting for word back on their builds. Finally, the beta test implications are another cost-saving measure, as this should help automate much of what goes into the management of applications and participants.
Short version: This is all very good for Microsoft and for independent developers.
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