Well this is an interesting news report on the Xbox One:
Microsoft said to let devs set release dates, pricing on Xbox Live games; certification process to be similar to iTunes
Microsoft already reversed one unpopular Xbox One policy when it backed off the system’s online requirements. Now it might be backing down off another, as Game Informer reports the company will allow independent developers to self-publish their games on Xbox Live.
The outlet’s sources say that developers will be able to make the call on their games’ release dates and pricing. Additionally, Microsoft is looking to make its certification process more like iTunes, with a targeted 14-day window from submission to approval. That will mean the company’s examination of game code will be more cursory, covering primarily terms of service breaches and major bugs.
Finally, Game Informer reports that the standard Xbox One retail unit will be convertible to a debug console that can play pre-release code. Instead of having two different hardware setups, Microsoft will just authorize specific consoles to play unfinished code. The same process is expected to work for large-scale beta testing of games as well.
And, no restrictions. Indie developers will have full access to the system resources, unlike on the 360. Microsoft really strayed off message with the X1 announcement. They should have put all their cards on the table to begin with. Show people the magic!