In 2006 Microsoft debuted the Xbox Live Indie Games (XBLIG) marketplace on the Xbox 360. It served as platform for independant developers to create games and let them be accessed by gamers everywhere. Microsoft's freeware called XNAwas used to develop the independent games and starting today, the entire program will enter its final phase.
XBLIG will be replaced by ID@Xbox and will allow developers to continue to create for the Xbox One and Windows 10 through the Windows Developer program. Microsoft's director of ID@Xbox, Chris Charla revealed during Gamescom that developers are already using the program to make a bunch of games accessible on the Xbox One and Windows 10.
As of today, Microsoft will no longer take new submissions or renewals on memberships and advise any developers currently using the program to develop a game, to finish up by September 9, 2016. All creators with a current subscription will receive a free lifetime Windows Developer account. In September 2017, XBLIG will stop being sold and all developers will be paid what they are owed. Once the store is shut down, players will still be able to play and re-download any games they purchased.
Microsoft will work to preserve XBLIG content, but will share more details on that in the future.
