In a trackback of past industry policies, tech titan Microsoft said that independent game developers will now be able to publish their own content on the Xbox One platform. Previously, the company did not support self-published indie games on the gaming console, allowing only well established and popular game makers onboard.
With this statement reversal, "indie games" will be available for user testing and purchase. Developers welcomed the idea, saying that the move will assist the game development industry. Small startups will gain a wider market, bringing them one step closer to probable big name buyouts or financial placements.
"Indie" games are developed by small firms which have no backing from any major companies. These games are usually created by a small group of developers, hoping for publishers to take notice of their work.
"Our vision is that every person can be a creator. That every Xbox One can be used for development. That every game and experience can take advantage of all of the features of Xbox One and Xbox Live. This means self-publishing," confirmed Marc Whiten, corporate vice president of Xbox.
Details regarding the policy change will be announced in August, said sources.
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