Microsoft reveals self-publishing plans for Xbox One

Microsoft will allow indie developers to self-publish on the Xbox One.

Reports circulated earlier today that the company would give more control to developers looking to release games on the next-gen console, and Xbox corporate VP Marc Whitten has now confirmed the news.

Although light on details, in a statement to Engadget Whitten said that each console can be used as a development kit by indies.

More details on Microsoft’s self-publishing and indie development strategy will be revealed at Gamescom.

"Our vision is that every person can be a creator. That every Xbox One can be used for development. That every game and experience can take advantage of all of the features of Xbox One and Xbox Live," he said.

"This means self-publishing. This means Kinect, the cloud, achievements. This means great discoverability on Xbox Live. We’ll have more details on the program and the timeline at Gamescom in August."

Concerns over Microsoft’s indie plans were sparked when Redmond Game Studios and Platforms GM Matt Booty previously stated that, at least at the time, there were no plans for self-publishing on the Xbox One.

But after a developer backlash on the issue, and following a recent U-turn on other strategies such as its always-on and pre-owned policies, the company has performed another reversal as it looks to get indies on board for the system.