According to Microsoft’s Games for Windows Facebook page, Microsoft has announced they are shutting down the Games for Windows Marketplace. The Games for Windows Client will still provide access to all existing purchases but users will no longer be able to purchase games through the service.
“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. 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.”
This doesn’t come as a complete surprise. The service is outdated, has received the bare minimum of support and in fact felt entirely abandoned by Microsoft for the past few years. However, in light of what’s happened, they updated and provided a list of frequently asked questions.
Now we’re on the cuff of next gen and Microsoft has a new game plan. According to GamesIndustry International, Jason Holtman, Valve’s former director of business development for Steam, was recently hired by Microsoft to focus on PC gaming and entertainment strategy.
”Yes, I have joined Microsoft where I will be focusing on making Windows a great platform for gaming and interactive entertainment,” Holtman told Games Industry. “I think there is a lot of opportunity for Microsoft to deliver the games and entertainment customers want and to work with developers to make that happen, so I’m excited to be here.”
Holtman left Valve after eight years, around the same time as several high-profile employees were laid off. Valve did not publicize it’s reasons for downsizing at the time but Gabe Newell later commented saying, “We’re not going to discuss why anyone in particular is or isn’t working here.”
Holtman’s credits include, convincing developers big and small to sell their games on Steam, guiding Steam through the DRM controversies and calming the fears of many publishers that the annual Steam Summer Sale and Holiday sales cheapen their intellectual property.
Clearly Microsoft has a thing or two to learn about digital distribution but this is where Holtman is valuable. He knows how to connect with customers, and his relationship with publishers and developers could prove to be the missing link to create a successful marketplace. One that PC gamers can be proud of.
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