Microsoft Admits It Is Too Difficult to Release Games on Xbox

Microsoft is streamlining certification and game releases on Xbox after acknowledging that previous procedures hindered collaboration with third-party studios and deterred small teams.

Microsoft is simplifying game certification and publishing on Xbox to attract more third-party developers and reduce bureaucratic barriers.

Company management acknowledged that past procedures seriously complicated collaboration with external studios. The changes were prompted by a statement from General Manager Asha Sharma, who called existing working conditions extremely difficult for partners.

Chief Technology Officer Scott Van Vliet confirmed that Microsoft has listened to developer criticism and is beginning to reform programs such as ID@Xbox. The company intends to simplify project reviews and game publishing in the digital storefront.

The main goal is to reduce the time studios spend on internal procedures so they can focus on game development. The changes are expected to particularly help small and independent teams, as technical requirements and multi-week reviews often caused them to abandon releasing games on Microsoft platforms.