Microsoft finally revealed the programme for indie developers at Gamescom. Dubbed ID@Xbox, the Xbox One plan will allow just about any one to apply for developing for the console.
Applications are free and open in order to “enable qualified game developers to build, publish and make their games available digitally on Xbox One.” Any one can apply for a license with no fees for certification and access to all features out of the box including Kinect, SmartGlass and much more. Also, since the Xbox One itself can be converted into a dev kit, there can now be an unparalleled level of participation from the indie community.
Speaking to VG247, corporate VP Phil Harrison stated that, “I think we’ve proven over our history a very strong commitment to this type of developer. But this programme definitely moves it forward, and definitely moves it forward in a very exciting way, based on the feedback that we got from the community and developers, what they were looking for in a platform.
“We’ve worked hard to level the playing field: all games are equal. We’ve built into the platform some very advanced discoverability functions which allow games to connect with gamers in the fastest way with the least friction. All of which, I think, is going to help developers build strong communities around their products. That’s what people wanted. That’s what they told us they wanted to do.”
ID@Xbox will also allow for developers to be noticed much faster and more often with Trending and Spotlight. Of course, as announced earlier in a reversal of previous policies, indie developers will now be able to self-publish their titles on Xbox Live for the Xbox One.