Microsoft removes patching charges for 360

[webdanzer]

Good move by Microsoft, I think.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2 ... 0-patching

Games had always been afforded one update free of charge, after paying for certification, but developers have been coming out of the woodwork to attest to the fact that, within reason, no more charges will be levelled for patching. The levels of that reasonableness are yet to be fully quantified, as Microsoft hasn't officially detailed the change itself, but it's thought that excessive patching or updating of a game will still incur fees, as will repeated certification failure.

Previously, Microsoft had charged tens of thousands of dollars to update or patch games, leading some prominent indies to leave titles unpatched - either because they felt that the costs were prohibitive or to raise awareness of the extent of the charges.

It's unknown whether Microsoft's generosity will be extended to similar levels for the ecosystem of the Xbox One, but Microsoft has been contacted for confirmation and further details.

Makes for a better environment for Indie publishers, and ultimately, helps consumers if multiple patches are truly needed.

We'll have to see if this means we get more garbage released as a launch iteration, though. Probably, but even the 'good' launches seem to need patches nowadays, so I think the move addresses the reality of the current state of the industry.