Xbox One indie program will support free-to-play games, micro-transactions

Microsoft had more good news for independent developers at the Penny Arcade Expo. Speaking with Joystiq, portfolio director for digital games at Microsoft Studios Chris Charla confirmed that indie games self-published through Microsoft’s ID@Xbox program will be supported regardless of their payment model, including free-to-play games and games with micro-transactions. This will allow for a much greater range of titles than were previously available on the Xbox Live Arcade, bringing the program more in line with Steam’s wide variety of content. Independent titles will also have Achievements and can be used in conjunction with Kinect and SmartGlass. Microsoft is intent on convincing both developers and gamers that the Xbox One will be just as indie-friendly as the PlayStation 4.