In July, Microsoft is launching a web marketplace for games, initially with games from its own studios, and eventually from other publishers. The platform will become an alternative to Apple and Google app stores, providing access to games on various devices and in different countries.
Gaming web marketplace
Project concept
In July of this year, Microsoft plans to launch a new web marketplace for distribution computer games. Initially, the platform will feature projects from studios owned by Microsoft, including Call of Duty: Mobile, Candy Crush and Minecraft. Subsequently, the marketplace will be expanded by attracting products from third-party publishers.
The new product from Microsoft is designed as a website rather than a separate application, which will provide access to games on more devices and in different countries of the world, in contrast to the branded application stores Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Development prospects
However, it remains unclear how the distribution of games via the Internet will be organized. The iOS operating system supports third-party downloads, but for now only in the European Union.
Microsoft first announced the idea of a "next-gen store" in early 2022, shortly after announcing it would buy Activision Blizzard. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer then announced the corporation's commitment to offering gaming content from Microsoft and partners on any device suitable for gaming.
Reorganizing Game Studios
Microsoft made a number of structural changes to its gaming divisions this week. Several Bethesda studios have been closed, including the developers of Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush. The mobile studio Mighty Doom Alpha Dog Studios ceased to exist, and Roundhouse Games became part of ZeniMax Online Studios, the creators of The Elder Scrolls Online.
According to Bloomberg, Microsoft is offering voluntary severance agreements to employees on some ZeniMax teams, including producers and testers. The company is also considering raising prices for its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate service and releasing some games, such as Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, exclusively for the PlayStation 5 console to boost revenue.
Glossary
- Microsoft is a transnational corporation that produces software for various computing devices.
- Call of Duty: Mobile is a free mobile multiplayer shooter game from Activision.
- Candy Crush is a series of popular mobile unicorn puzzles from the King company.
- Minecraft is a cult indie open-world sandbox game from the Swedish studio Mojang.
- Activision Blizzard is an American company, publisher and developer of computer games.
Links
- https://9to5google.com/2024/05/09/ microsoft-xbox-game-store-launch-date/
- https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/9/24153245/ microsoft-xbox-mobile-gaming-store-july-launch
FAQ
What new games are coming to Microsoft's Xbox Store?
What format will the new Xbox Store work in?
How will games be distributed on the new Xbox Store?
What changes have taken place at Bethesda and ZeniMax studios?
What other plans does Microsoft have to increase gaming revenue?
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Discussion of the topic – Microsoft will launch an alternative to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in July 2023
In July 2023, Microsoft will launch a marketplace with mobile games, initially with its own hits Call of Duty: Mobile, Candy Crush and Minecraft. Later, the Xbox Store will expand to games from other publishers. It will be a website, not an app, offering an alternative to the App Store and Play Store.
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Владислав
I wonder how Microsoft will promote its game store? 🤔 Given the dominance of the App Store and Google Play, they will have to try very hard to attract users.
Элизабет
Yes, the competition will be tough. But Microsoft has an advantage - a huge library of games, including hits like Call of Duty and Minecraft. This could be their trump card. 🎮
Фридрих
I'm more concerned about how they will distribute the games online. Maybe through cloud gaming? 🌫️ This would solve the problem with installing games on different devices.
Мария
Good idea! Microsoft already has experience with cloud gaming through xCloud. Perhaps they are using this technology for their store. 💻
Ярослав
Eh, again Microsoft is trying to monopolize the market. 😒 Why would they create another game store when there is already an App Store and Google Play? This will only make life more difficult for developers.
Анджелика
I love the idea of a new game store! 👏 The more choice, the better for us, users. And Microsoft is a serious player in the market, so their store could be a great alternative.
Пьер
Don't forget that Microsoft recently closed several Bethesda studios. I wonder if this will affect the content of their new store? 🧐 I wish they didn't go too far with their restructuring.
Наталья
Hmm, what if Microsoft starts exclusively releasing its games only in the new store? 😲 This would be a very bold move and could attract a ton of users. But the risk is high if the store doesn’t work.