120°

Press Play: Microsoft wants "unique", "weird" indie games for Xbox Live

Is the "microstudio" approach key to winning the next gen indie battle?

Jek_Porkins4009d ago

Very smart move by Microsoft, they need to attract different types of developers, games and gamer's. I cannot wait to see the new approach they will be taking with the next Xbox.

Getting rid of MS Points is also another step in the right direction. May 21st is going to be a very telling day indeed.

AngelicIceDiamond4009d ago

Yep next week. After months of terrible rumor monsters we only have less than a week now.

#XboxReveal

JoGam4009d ago

I said it before and will say it again, indies is the future. Sony is doing it. MS is doing it too. Great for the industry.

dirigiblebill4009d ago

Focusing on a few indie projects should improve quality, but I'd prefer the scale of an App Store personally.

kingmushroom4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

so their following Sony's steps, thats a win for indie devs

fermcr4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

Actually ... Sony's following Microsoft's steps in relation to indie devs.

kingmushroom4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

not really sonys has been all about supporting indie devs and allowing developers the freedom to make the game they want, and they've made it better by slashing out their concept approval method.

Edit: its just funny how now MS comes out saying how they care about idie, lol.

Utalkin2me4009d ago

Lol, Sony following MS steps in relation to indie devs? Are you serious? There has been nothing but complaints from indie developers of how MS runs their indie development.

ziggurcat4009d ago

"Actually ... Sony's following Microsoft's steps in relation to indie devs."

no. sony has always been strong supporters of indie developers.

greenpowerz4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

Supporting Indie games/devs looking for different experiences is something Sony invented :P

Where do you people come from? Had to mark you for trolling... Sorry

Nice edit LOL. Left the trolling part though

Utalkin2me4009d ago

Shame we just can't take your last bubble, but it "is what it is". Might want to do some research before spouting nonsense.

ebreda4009d ago

Really? Am I mistaken or did Sony launch an "Indie Games" section on the PSN just last week, while XBL has it for more than 3 years?

It doesn't mean they'll do a better job coming May 21st, but so far XBL has thousands of indie games available under that tab on the home menu. I'm sure that counts as "first".

DigitalRaptor4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

Greenpowerz.

Sony actually financially supports the indie devs and opens a lot more opportunity post-launch. The games they support are promoted on the PSN store main page and across the web, not just a channel on the store that people may or may not visit.

I respect that MS did a lot for indie devs on the 360 with their XNA program, but after that they don't do much else. Then there's problems that have sent many devs flocking.

Sony's approach this gen to indie games is different to MS and whilst both platforms have their differences, these indie devs have taken notice that Sony is fairly more open and supportive of different ideas. The Unfinished Swan, Journey, Papo & Yo, Pixeljunk, Datura are some examples.

I think it's good that MS is taking this approach too, as the more variety the better, across all platforms. To say Sony is copying is kinda like suggesting that Sony wasn't looking to make their platforms more accessible in the wake of the early PS3 days.

maniacmayhem4009d ago

MS included an indie channel that was ran and managed by the indie community. They also had the lowest fees for submission for Indie games to be put on their console. And provided easy to use tools for ANY indie developer to use and submit directly to their console or mobile device.

Don't be fooled by a couple of devs for getting short changed by MS, there are also devs that applauded MS for even giving indie games a chance on their console.

So I too find it funny that Sony is now all of a sudden this great white hope for indie devs.

But I do agree with any steps by any major Console manufacturer to put these smaller games more in the spotlight.

Bigpappy4009d ago

No need to fight over who supported indie developers better. Just compare XBLA to PSN and see which service has more indie games for download. I think you will quickly realize that XBLA had supported indie games on a much, much larger scale than PSN. This gen XBLA is where indies sold they games on console.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 4009d ago
maniacmayhem4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

MS is still very much invested in making games for it's system and they are also hoping for it's machine do to much more.

Can this machine truly do everything?
It will definitely try.

Indie or low budget games I feel will be the focus for this upcoming gen. Making low costing games that have focus on gameplay rather than overblown graphics and hour long drawn out CG cut scenes.

There will still be those types of games but I expect them to be treated like summer blockbuster movies and not the main focus like the current devs are doing.

Edit:
That Max and the Brotherhood game looks fantastic. Will definitely support and pick it up.

Jek_Porkins4009d ago

Yea, I watched that Max And The Brotherhood gameplay on that video and was blown away! I have never heard of it before, but if that is the quality they are going for, I'm going to have a great time with the next gen XBLA.

Root4009d ago

Well I think they first need to work on stop restricting them a ton and scaring them away

maniacmayhem4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

Restricting? Care to explain?

Edit @ Root:
Aaah yes, there have been some vocal claims about the process that MS has in placed. Take it from me that a lot of that comes from old video game submissions that I feel MS adopted from other established game console manufacturers. Those practices are not only draconian but seriously out of date for today's market.

Especially when everyone and their grandparents can make a decent game and have it available to everyone.

I do hope they change their policies especially since Nintendo and Sony has done so as well.

Root4009d ago (Edited 4009d ago )

Well for starters....$40000...just to patch your game

The fact that they don't offer enough freedom

It becomes stressful for them with MS rules

I don't think I need to explain to be honest, articles have popped up on here enough about MS and how their treatment to indie devs isn't what it used to be

http://www.xblafans.com/jon...

"On top of development costs, there are lawyers, fees and ambiguity to sort through that cause an equally overwhelming headache."

"These laments come hot on the heels of Brian Provinciano who publicly declaring on Twitter how difficult it was to get Retro City Rampage onto XBLA. Polytron’s Phil Fish has also gone on record in the past to say the costs for developing on XBLA are absurd."

You just get the feeling MS have this attitude where it's like

"It's either OUR WAY or the highway....do as your told or else"

http://m.uk.ign.com/article...

" that dealing with Sony was akin to a “coffee shop chat,” while Microsoft exuded an “intimidating corporate vibe.” He spoke about how, when he became vocal about the problems dealing with Microsoft, they cancelled the planned release of Retro City Rampage on Xbox Live and, according to Wired, “forced him to resubmit the game through the arduous approvals process and go through an extra six months of negotiations that required him to submit the game through an outside publisher to get it released.”

Making matters worse, Microsoft accidentally sold the game for $10 instead of the planned $15 for a time, cutting into his profits."

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300°

Microsoft Survey Asks About Handheld

A new survey from Microsoft has further hinted at the possibility of an Xbox handheld being in development.

Read Full Story >>
twistedvoxel.com
EasilyTheBest6d ago

This is definitely happening, I just hope they have 2 versions one with a much bigger screen.

GamerRN6d ago

I'll be happy with this, and a PC console hybrid that rivals anything we have power wise

Number1TailzFan6d ago

The problem with bigger devices is playing them on your side in bed, Vita and before that was fine. Since the Switch you gotta have a gooseneck holder & controllers detached so you can lie down holding them, or your arm will quickly get tired.

1Victor5d ago

@thesofware: “A much bigger screen than what?”
A gaming laptop 🤷🏿🤣

Kosic5d ago

Than the screen originally planned...duh... :D

darthv725d ago

it kinda already did... https://www.xbox.com/en-US/...

They are just gauging interest in one of their own.

crazyCoconuts5d ago

A Xbox version of Logitech G-Cloud?
I mean, why bother? Not like the G cloud is flying off shelves and what would Xbox add to make it better?
They're surely not going to create bespoke architecture here and there are already a few Windows handhelds out there. I have little confidence in their ability to put together an attractive UI in the way Steam did. So I doubt anything will come from this.

KicksnSnares6d ago

Day One buy for me if they'll make a dedicated handheld device.

darthv726d ago

i have that logitech g-cloud. Its a sweet little piece of kit. I like that it can also install games from the play store unlike the other android based handheld.

mudakoshaka6d ago

It sure is! Don't understand why you get the down-votes. Whoever does not like the G Cloud must have been dropped down a well, head first, when they were of a younger age.

PassNextquestion6d ago

I wonder if Microsoft will perform better in Japan if they do actually make a handheld since everyone says handheld and mobile are king over there.

TiredGamer6d ago

This looks like the future of the game industry... all three platforms with a handheld option.

I wonder if the Playstation Portal is a technology test-bed/prototype for a future Playstation handheld?

rlow16d ago (Edited 6d ago )

It’s a possibility but I can’t help but think would that be the best way to go about it? Though it would give you data on how much it is used and game type. It’s still not a true portable device and so people approach it differently. I think that data on phones, tablets, and of course the competition would give a better indication.

But I really think if Sony is considering a new PSP that could play ps5 games, now would be the time to dive in. Honestly, if they do this, it would be huge.

Traecy6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Doubt if Sony PS wants to support a new handheld with first party games. Something they lacked with the Vita. What they should do is have a handheld that is like the PS Portal which can play all games but play those games on the go as well as at home. Something like that is a better investment.

TiredGamer5d ago

Agreed that you will probably never see a separate line of games specifically for the handheld (a la PSP or PSVita). The modern economics and expectations of game development make that cost prohibitive. What makes more sense is if the full-fat game on PS5 or PS6 has a special "handheld" profile that is automatically optimized for the lower spec handheld. There would be some significant compromises compared to the bigger console variant, but it would be the same game overall and would only require a single purchase.... somewhat what the Switch does with a lower resolution when playing handheld versus docked.

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310°

Xbox Games Showcase Followed by [REDACTED] Direct Airs June 9

- Xbox Wire - Mark your calendars! The Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct airs June 9. More info inside.

Read Full Story >>
news.xbox.com
bionicstar6d ago

Will they show Fable 4, Stalker 2, GoW 6 & Perfect Dark?

PhillyDonJawn6d ago

Crossing fingers for Fable and perfect dark. And State of Decay 3

RaidenBlack6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

And maybe Clockwork Revolution, South of Midnight, Contraband, Project 007 & OD? lol
and whatever happened to Everwild ?
+ that rumored Wu Tang RPG

Sonic18816d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Will they have official release dates and gameplay?

anast6d ago

Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming.

6d ago
Lightning776d ago

It's an Xbox showcase that they have every year.

Make smarter comments for once.

anast6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Tell me what a smarter comment is.

If they don't sell game pass the entire time, then I will be wrong. All of this can be proven once the show gets underway. Let's wait and see.

InUrFoxHole5d ago

@Anast
Anything you didn't type. Good day sir!

6d ago
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6d ago Replies(1)
Lightning776d ago (Edited 6d ago )

Wow too easy.

You went from MS going all streaming to selling gamepass content in which we all know they are.

Which one is it?

Pretty clear you don't know what a smart comment is at least you admit you don't know.

6d ago
anast6d ago (Edited 6d ago )

"Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming."

It's both. I would worry about your own intelligence at this point. It seems that there is not enough to go around for you to worry about how smart other people are.

Lightning776d ago

It's just a regular event announcing games. Nice one captain obvious they're gonna mention gp stuff like they do every year what else is new.

The all streaming part is just you, being you I guess. They have streaming options but going all streaming again is just you pulling stuff outta thin air.

anast6d ago

You don't know what a smart comment is or isn't. You're welcome for the help.

Lightning775d ago

No you said something dumb then you tried to back track and mention GP.

Again make smart comments for once.

anast5d ago

And we have broken record syndrome.

+ Show (6) more repliesLast reply 5d ago
darthv726d ago

Wonder if they will address the handheld rumors....?

jimb0j0nes6d ago

For a brief moment I thought we might get a whole Direct for Gears 6 - seems like it's COD though!

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290°

Microsoft’s Surface and Xbox hardware revenues take a big hit in Q3

Microsoft just posted the third quarter of its 2024 fiscal financial results. The software maker made $61.9 billion in revenue and a net income of $21.9 billion during Q3. Revenue is up 17 percent, and net income has increased by 20 percent.

Read Full Story >>
theverge.com
darthv7211d ago

Xbox content + services up 62% while hardware down 31%... seems about right with the way they tout you don't need the hardware to play. People can play on their phones or smart tv or other means. I don't hardly play on my consoles directly since getting devices like the logitech g-cloud and ps portal. Which is to also say I have been playing more digital than physical because of these devices.

solideagle10d ago

you should apply in MS PR team buddy, I think you will do a great job in my humble opinion :)

Sonic188110d ago

I thought darthv72 and Obscure_Observer already work for Microsoft 🤔

dveio10d ago

MS: "Xbox services and content without AB up 1%, with AB up 62%. Hardware down 31%. In total a loss of 350 mill."

darthv72: "Seems about right."

MS: "Excuse m ..."

darthv72: "I don't hardly play on my consoles directly."

MS:

Lightning7710d ago

What he said was facts. How he plays games is no concern of you. Don't get too mad about it.

Cacabunga10d ago

I can tell people like you are an absolute minority..

If service is up means their fans and fanboys accepted this model and subscribed to it. The near future you will see a big decline because the service is saturated.

darthv7210d ago

to you it may seem like the minority... but your bubble is shrinking because more and more are following suit. convenience is a hell of a drug and its also why physical sales only amount to 30% of overall game sales. times are changing, you either get with them or you get left behind.

neutralgamer19929d ago

Darth

30% physical sales: yet Phil and xbox division are in a rush go give up on that 30%. they don't have any right to give up any piece of the pie since the control such a little of the pie to begin with

also, the market is clearly speaking that the model Xbox is pushing isn't working right now the keyword being right now. you are right about freedom to play anywhere so i hope they put their games on steam

shinoff218310d ago

But that's been ms for years. When things aren't going their way they try to change the way things are said. For instance console sales are down, they stop telling how many sold instead telling us how many hours spent in halo or headshots. So it makes sense console sales down just say people are playing on more devices then previous. What they won't say is how many xbox players jumped ship to ps5.

Cacabunga10d ago

Hardware sales are so bad that Sony and Nintendo are blowing the sales off the water with their hardware.

If Xbox are losers, others aren’t..
Xbox already tried everything with Xbox live then subscriptions went down so much that they had to find something else. Their fans subscribed then reached saturation rather quickly.

Hardware and exclusive games is where it’s at! Keep gamers excited, announce decent software and people will support you

itsmebryan10d ago

@shin
Well keep it simple Sony 's operating income is down 26% and Microsoft's is up 32%. No MS spin there, just facts. 😉
Cheers

S2Killinit10d ago

MS is after diminishing consoles as a medium. They want to destroy this market because they couldnt win. MS’s vision is to dissolve console gaming.

romulus2310d ago

Odd that a company that touts you dont need the hardware to play is already touting another console in the works.

darthv7210d ago

They are not reliant on the HW but still want to maintain a presence (no matter how small) is a good thing. It shows commitment to the craft. It reminds me of SNK and how they made games for their own hardware (Neo Geo) while also making them for others because they knew there was a market to do so. They knew they would sell more to others but also sell to their own niche fan base.

TheEroica10d ago (Edited 10d ago )

Perfectly reasonable post down voted by insecure corporation friendly folk.... But not gamers. Real gamer want accessibility and ease of acquisition for all.... Company shills are the only ones still telling us that hardware locking people from games is good for us.

Chevalier9d ago

@Darth

You should stop parroting metrics like an idiot without context.

"Xbox content and services revenue grew 62% in Q3 from a year earlier, “driven by 61 points of net impact” from the purchase of the third-party video game giant, Microsoft said."

61 of the 62% was from their merger so net increase is ONLY 1%

https://www.mesaonline.org/...

itsmebryan9d ago

@chevalier

It looks like made a great purchase. Much better then Sony buying Bungie. 😉
Cheers

+ Show (4) more repliesLast reply 9d ago
purple10110d ago

Xbox hardware revenue tanks to lowest point of Xbox Series generation

Profchaos10d ago

I'm not surprised surface is struggling they aren't relevant anymore

DOMination-10d ago

In the last two years they've started exiting the consumer market altogether. All of the newest Surface products are business models only. They can't seem to work out what they want to do with it.

XBManiac10d ago

Too expensive hardware when others offer the same or more for less? Good work, Green Team.

SimpleDad10d ago (Edited 10d ago )

"Despite some early successes for Xbox games on rival platforms, Xbox hardware is down by a massive 31 percent this quarter."
"Without Activision Blizzard, Microsoft’s overall gaming revenue would have actually declined this quarter."
"Xbox content and services would have only been up a single percent without Activision Blizzard..."
"It looks like next quarter is going to be a similar story for gaming at Microsoft, too."

That is crazy... so A/B/K is carrying the whole Xbox gaming.
Oh and Microsoft will be fine. Windows, Office and Cloud are growing with each pc purchase.

purple10110d ago

Activision: "we gonna need a bigger rucksack/backpack please"

Microsoft: "why's that"

Activision: "to carry yo' weak ass'

Profchaos10d ago (Edited 10d ago )

Top brass have also wanted to start seeing returns on the 100 billion they have put into various Xbox related moves so seeing more multiplatform games is highly likely especially from abk

It's basically saying that PlayStation is the reason Xbox is afloat right now thinks to Ps5 versions of COD

Kornholic10d ago

So basically PS and PC gamers' money is keeping Xbox on life support.

MrDead10d ago

The only growth MS will get out of the console industry is if it supports it's rivals platforms. Xbox is a pointless machine now. I can see them on a big push for live next, and they won't give up on trying to buy Steam.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 10d ago
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