This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:20:40
The video focuses on guiding developers through the process of launching a game on Xbox via the ID@Xbox program, as presented by Natalia Scrimshaw. Key themes include the application process, involving initial concept submission and NDA signing, and securing licenses for Xbox console dev kits upon acceptance. Developers are advised on effective application tips and setting up an account on the Partner Center.
The video also addresses managing user roles through Azure Active Directory, accessing necessary Xbox SDKs and resources, and the steps of the development cycle, such as integrating Xbox Live services and validating games. Creating a compelling store presence involves configuration for different regions, inclusivity features, and customizations for search results across various platforms.
Furthermore, the certification process ensures that games meet Xbox policies, addressing stability, gameplay issues, and Xbox Live standards, with varying timelines for certification. Post-launch, developers gain access to analytics, crash reports, and engagement tools via the Partner Center. The program's overall benefits and resources for further learning are highlighted, encouraging developers to leverage these tools for successful game launches on Xbox.
00:00:00
In this segment, Natalia Scrimshaw, a program manager at Xbox, outlines the steps to ship a game on the Xbox platform. She introduces the ID@Xbox program, a self-publishing initiative for game developers of all sizes, which provides comprehensive access to Xbox platforms, services, and storefronts. Natalia emphasizes the support for independent developers, stating that the program offers the same tools as those used by AAA publishers, along with a dedicated support team. She explains the process of publishing games via the Partner Center portal and highlights the benefits of increased visibility and community engagement opportunities once a game is launched. The talk aims to provide developers with an understanding of developing, joining the ID@Xbox program, and the end-to-end product creation and launch process on Xbox.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the speaker explains the application process for the ID@Xbox program, aimed at helping developers launch their games on Xbox. Key points include the initial application where developers provide details about their game concept, target platforms, and multiplayer plans. Developers must also sign a mutual non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to protect their game’s intellectual property. Once accepted, they receive access to necessary tools and resources, can configure their game through a publishing portal, and undergo certification before going live. Post-launch, developers have access to analytics and sales data tools. The application is free and can be completed online, typically taking about three weeks.
00:06:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the final steps and requirements for developers to complete their submission to the ID@Xbox program. After passing the concept approval stage, developers need to sign additional contracts specific to their software and title. Successful acceptance provides developers with two complimentary licenses for Xbox console dev kits. Key submission criteria include providing proof of the game’s existence and efforts, such as a studio or project website or a solid concept document. If rejected, developers can resubmit with updated information.
The video also outlines tips for a successful application, recommending the use of a professional email alias and submitting concrete proof of the game. The next step involves signing up for the Partner Center, a publishing portal for configuring game distribution in the Microsoft Store. Developers receive a 5×5 token to waive the normal registration fee. When registering, they should use a neutral Microsoft account that can be transferred if necessary. Basic account vetting by Microsoft will follow, involving tax and business information verification, which takes a few days.
00:09:00
In this part of the video, the focus is on managing users and understanding the development cycle within the ID@Xbox program. Firstly, it discusses creating an Azure Active Directory tenant to add users to your studio’s account in Partner Center, which offers flexible permissions for different user roles, such as developers needing access to upload game packages, and marketing teams accessing gameplay stats and sales.
The development cycle overview begins with gaining access to Xbox SDKs, forums, and documentation after acceptance into the program. These resources help integrate Xbox Live services, like achievements and identity. The second step outlines uploading game packages to the publishing portal (Partner Center) for testing. The third step involves validating the game by privately testing its download and functionality on the Microsoft Store.
Finally, the video goes into creating the game’s store presence, including configuring its appearance on different Microsoft platforms, as the game nears completion.
00:12:00
In this part of the video, the focus is on configuring your game’s store presence for different countries and regions, including localized text, media, and pricing. It covers how filling out detailed information such as store listings, game properties, age ratings, pricing, availability, and add-ons is essential for creating a comprehensive store presence. This presence affects how your game appears on product details pages (PDPs), product galleries, and search results across various platforms including console, PC, web, and mobile apps. The segment emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, explaining features like accessibility capabilities, supported localized languages, and upcoming inclusion tags that help make games more inclusive. Games with these features get extra visibility and metadata in store experiences. The video encourages developers to explore and implement accessibility features, noting that such features may already be supported by their games.
00:15:00
In this part of the video, the focus is on the steps involved in submitting a game for certification on Xbox. Key points include configuring store presence, game packaging, and ensuring the game meets all Xbox policies for quality and safety. Important aspects of certification mentioned are checking game stability, addressing game-breaking bugs, verifying content and gameplay modes, and ensuring adherence to Xbox Live achievements and gamer tag display standards.
Additionally, there is a requirement to complete a certification module, which includes questions about product configuration, user-generated content, DLC, and social media integration. The process involves submitting game packages, store listing information, and Xbox Live configuration information for individual certification. The certification process timeline varies, with initial console certification taking about five days and PC certification about three days, while update certifications can be faster depending on trust earned within the ecosystem.
00:18:00
In this part of the video, the speaker explains the steps and tools available after launching a game on Xbox. They highlight various features offered by Xbox to understand game performance, such as analytics, usage data, sales figures, ratings, and reviews through the Partner Center. The segment also covers accessing crash reports, engaging with players through posts and events, and updating the game, which involves re-certification. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the benefits of being an ID@Xbox partner and mentions other resources and talks available for further learning about developing and launching games on Xbox. They close by encouraging the viewers to take advantage of these resources and contact them for more information.