Microsoft to make Xbox One into an indie self-publishing platform

Hoping to win favor with indie game developers, Microsoft is announcing its ID@Xbox program today that would allow independent game developers to self-publish on the Xbox One video game consoles launching this fall.

The battle to establish a new platform is usually won or lost on the basis of developer support. Apple and Google have stolen many developers away to make games for mobile platforms. Both Sony and Microsoft realize this, and that is why they are both catering to indie game developers now. Sony won a public relations coup by coming out first with its program for indies. That led some well-known developers like Lorne Lanning to bash Microsoft for being late to the party. Some critics will view Microsoft’s move today cynically, saying it has been done in reaction to Sony.