Microsoft’s going to be the game developers hero, announcing their XNA initiative into user-generated game content. Later this year indy developers will be able to look forward to profit sharing up to 70% of your games revenue.
Although we’re not sure what “up to” exactly means, we’re guessing a high quality game developed by a highly enthusiastic talented team of want-to-be developers will allow them to actually make money in the industry. Right now, big publishers offer small shares of game revenue with upcoming developers, now there is a chance to show off your skills on an Industry leading platform (Xbox 360) with XNA.
If you take a second to look at the flash game development on casual gaming portals you’ll see there is a huge untapped market of talent which needs highlighting. Microsoft built its empire in operating systems by providing developers a safe haven for creating great applications with tools, documentation and community support. Now, they’re going to attempt to dominate the game industry in the same manor.
The games will be sold on the Xbox Live Marketplace at three different prices — the equivalent of $2.50, $5 or $10 — using Microsoft points. (reuters)
If you’re a game developer looking to break into the industry or a young upstart trying to make innovative waves in an industry of sameness your chance is coming. This is great news and will separate them from the competition quickly.
