What do you want to know
- Microsoft has announced a new way for independent game developers to access powerful tools often used by major studios.
- Starting today, [email protected] members can apply to become members of the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub and receive benefits from both programs.
- Microsoft’s [email protected] launched earlier this year and can be used to create games for consoles, PCs and mobile devices.
Earlier this year, Microsoft launched [email protected], a program that helps independent game studios access tools used by much larger game companies. [email protected] can be used to develop games for consoles, PCs and mobile devices and has been used by hundreds of developers since its launch, according to Microsoft. Today it was announced that [email protected] will partner with the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub to expand the resources available to game developers.
[email protected] allows game developers to use PlayFab services for free (with limits). PlayFab is a primary platform for live games that allows developers to implement and manage multiplayer features such as in-game chat, leaderboards, and in-game currencies.
Like [email protected], the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub allows smaller organizations to use tools and benefits common to larger studios. Founders Hub members can use Visual Studio Enterprise, GitHub Enterprise, PowerBI Pro, and Microsoft 365, including Microsoft Teams.
Founders Hub members also receive benefits from Microsoft partners, such as Miro and OpenAI.
Starting today, [email protected] members can apply to the Founders Hub. Those who qualify will receive benefits from both programs. They will also receive an additional $1,000 in Azure credits and potentially unlock up to $150,000 in credits. The previous maximum was $5,000.
Microsoft has highlighted a few titles that use [email protected] and PlayFab services. Turbo Golf Racing and you suck at the parking lot! made their way to Xbox Game Pass and Homeworld Mobile released on tablets and phones.
