Xbox.com’s PC marketplace shutting down next week

Microsoft announced today that Xbox.com's PC marketplace will be closed next week.

"As part of the upcoming Xbox 360 system update, Microsoft Points will be retired, and the Xbox.com PC marketplace will be closed as of August 22, 2013," Microsoft said on the Games for Windows Live Facebook page. "We encourage you to spend your Microsoft Points balance prior to this change.

"Although you will not be able to purchase new games, you can continue to enjoy previously purchased content by downloading them through the Games for Windows LIVE client software as usual," the company said.

Microsoft later confirmed to us that closing the PC marketplace does not mean it will be shutting down its dreaded Games for Windows Live service, though I'm sure it wouldn't be terribly missed if that were to happen.

“Microsoft continues to support the Games for Windows Live platform," we were told. "You can continue to enjoy previously purchased games and downloadable content in your catalogue by downloading them through the Games for Windows Live client.

"Although purchase functionality will be discontinued through this marketplace, the Games for Windows Live service will continue to operate as usual.”

The decision to shutter purchases through the website comes a day after former Steam boss Jason Holtman joined Microsoft with a focus on "making Windows a great platform for gaming and interactive entertainment." I wonder if this was one of his first decisions. For more information, check out Microsoft's FAQ.