MS EMBRACES INDEPENDENT DEVELOPERS
November 7, 2000

Microsoft announced the Xbox Incubator Program and the Xbox Independent Developer Program, which allow game designers to create prototypes of Xbox games, at the Australian Game Developer Conference.

"Changes in the video game industry and the rising cost of production have made it more difficult for independent developers to access major publishers and their distribution channels," said Kevin Bachus, director of third-party relations at Microsoft. "History has proven that great games can come from anywhere, and we want to establish an environment in which gifted game designers, regardless of their resources, have the opportunity to realize their creative visions through Xbox."

Game developers or potential game developers worldwide can participate in the Xbox Independent Developer Program by applying to receive the Xbox Prototype Kit (XPK). Available free of charge, the XPK offers software and detailed information designed to help creative individuals and game development companies create prototype Xbox games using familiar programming tools on standard PCs. Developers can use these prototypes to secure distribution deals with licensed Xbox publishers.

The Xbox Incubator Program is available to video game developers who want to commit resources to developing an Xbox game using an official Xbox Development Kit (XDK) before securing relationships with major publishers. Only games created with the XDK and distributed by licensed publishers will be available as commercial products.

To participate in the Xbox Incubator Program, independent developers must submit complete written descriptions of their game concepts for evaluation by Microsoft's Xbox team. If invited to join the program, developers must license an XDK that contains the hardware, software, and tools necessary to build Xbox games.

Developers will take part in the Xbox Incubator Program for six months, during which time they should be able to create a prototype of their game concept and secure publishing and distribution deals.

Bachus added, "Xbox is all about great games, and we want Xbox gamers to have access to the best in the world."