Microsoft’s XNA framework no longer in active development

Microsoft has confirmed it has no plans to produce future versions of its XNA development software.

Rumours began yesterday when an email leak surfaced, stating that both the framework and DirectX were to be retired from Microsoft’s program. A Microsoft rep later confirmed to Polygon that there won’t be any future versions of XNA – though the firm will continue to invest in DirectX.

"Microsoft is actively investing in DirectX as the unified graphics foundation for all of our platforms, including Windows, Xbox 360, and Windows Phone," the rep said. "DirectX is evolving and will continue to evolve. We have absolutely no intention of stopping innovation with DirectX.

"XNA Game Studio remains a supported toolset for developing games for Xbox 360, Windows and Windows Phone. Many developers have found financial success creating Xbox LIVE Indie Games using XNA. However, there are no plans for future versions of the XNA product."

Developer and consumer opinions seem to suggest that the apparent doom this spells for Xbox Live’s Indie Game channel as we know it, is no big deal. Just so long as Microsoft replaces it – preferably with something better.