Publisher Curve 'sad to see' lack of dedicated indie support on Xbox One

Indie developer and publisher Curve is disappointed in Microsoft's stance on supporting indie developers on the Xbox One, according to a statement the company shared with Games Industry International.

Curve has assisted numerous indie developers bring their titles to major platforms, most recently Mike Bithell's Thomas Was Alone to PlayStation 3 and Vita. The company is currently preparing Jasper Bryne's Lone Survivor for launch on both platforms as well.

"Xbox Live Arcade was a trailblazer last generation, so it's sad to see Microsoft not announcing dedicated support for independent developers on the Xbox One," said managing director Jason Perkins.

"Refusing to concentrate on easier submissions and discoverability leaves the way clear for Sony to capture the most innovative market in gaming right now," he added, comparing Microsoft's approach to that of Sony.

Sony recently announced it would waive the license fee for studios interested in developing for PlayStation Mobile and has dedicated programs set up to encourage indie games, such as the Sony Pub Fund.

"Sony's show of support for developers, including showing independent releases not only front and centre on their store front but also during the PlayStation 4 reveal is creating a more open, co-operative market for independent games to enter the living room on a level playing field," Perkins said.

"As an indie developer, there was nothing in this presentation that would lure me into making a game for this console," Martin Pichlmair of Chasing Aurora developer Broken Rules added. "The PS4 is much more tempting and so is the Wii U. From where I'm standing, it looks like iOS, Android and Steam stay the most interesting platforms for independent games for at least one more console generation. OUYA needs to prove itself before I can comment on it, but hiring Kellee Santiago gives them a lot of indie credibility."

Yesterday Microsoft said indie developers would be unable to self-publish on the Xbox One and would need to partner with Microsoft Studios or an approved publisher to do so.