Microsoft is Making the Xbox One More Indie Friendly

Microsoft is eliminating their publisher requirement for the Xbox One, allowing independent developers to be in control of their game's pricing and release date, IGN reported. Earlier today, Game Informer reported that anonymous sources said Microsoft is also looking into changing its games certification process, which has also been confirmed by various news outlets.

Many indie games have stolen our hearts, and Microsoft's inability to support those developers created an opportunity for Sony to dominate the indie game market for consoles. However, with this policy change, Microsoft may be able to draw back the attention of indie developers to their newest console.

Before the change was confirmed, indie developers like Mike Bithell, creator of Thomas Was Alone, tweeted he is glad there is news for "[Microsoft] potentially opening up their platform to indies," but is calling for more action.

Key is, as ever, visibility. Sony have proven their desire to make indie games visible (Thomas had mad exposure in their shop).. MS, less so
— Mike Bithell (@mikeBithell) July 24, 2013

In addition to their policy change, Microsoft announced that every Xbox One will also serve as a debug unit. Microsoft will detail their self-publishing plan at this year's Gamescon, which takes place from August 21 -25.