In another surprising twist, Microsoft revealed that it would allow independent developers to publish their own games on the Xbox One console. The new console will allow Xbox One buyers to use off-the-shelf hardware as development kits.
The company is abandoning the Xbox 360 policy of requiring independent studios to partner with publishers. Microsoft is also eliminating restrictions on how many times a game can be resold on Xbox Live. Although this step will help promote console sales, Microsoft still has to remedy the negative impact from their previous less popular policy changes and mend their relationship with independent developers. The console’s competitor, Sony, is also offering users an opportunity to publish games, but PlayStation users will have to purchase a special development kit to create games for the PS4.
Although the announcement offers exciting news in console gaming, Microsoft is yet to answer serious questions such as lead times to get games into stores and the revenue split between developers and Microsoft. However, Microsoft stated that they would answer these questions in late August. For now gamers and developers alike will have to wait until November when the Xbox One will be released.
Video Source: Newsy