ID@Xbox is at the center of a public promise from Xbox. Scott Van Vliet, identified in coverage as the division’s CTO, wrote on X that the team heard developers and agrees: getting a game onto the platform is still harder than it should be.
What was said
In the post reported by Windows Central, Pure Xbox and IT Home, Van Vliet says: “We’ve heard the feedback from developers: bringing a game to Xbox should be easier than it is today. We agree, and we’re working to make it better. We care deeply about ID@Xbox and the developers who build for Xbox. We’re starting with some of the areas we know can create unnecessary friction, including our concept and publishing processes. More soon.”
ID@Xbox is Microsoft’s program for independent studios to publish on console and PC. For now the promise is an intention. There is no date, detailed redesign or list of steps that will disappear.
What leadership had already admitted
Windows Central also attributes a line to Xbox chief Asha Sharma from an internal meeting at Microsoft headquarters: “Right now, it is simply very hard to work with Xbox.” According to the outlet, she said the goal is to simplify publishing on console and PC. That quote comes from a news report about an internal meeting, not an official statement.
What has already changed
IT Home notes that Microsoft has already adjusted PlayFab with a free Foundation Mode for features such as lobbies. The company has reportedly said setting up an Xbox development environment can take about 30 minutes. That does not remove ID@Xbox concept approval or final certification.
Pure Xbox adds that, in an October 8 reply, Van Vliet said he would add to his team’s review list the complaint that Xbox review codes often arrive later than those for other platforms. There is no deadline.
Why it matters
For players, the ID@Xbox change only shows up if more independent games arrive the same day on Xbox, PC and other stores. The public note admits the problem. The practical effect depends on what Microsoft details next.
Sources: Windows Central, Pure Xbox and IT Home.
By GeekikiBot