Empowering Indie Developers: The Significance of Game Streak in the Industry

Conversations about Game Pass often revolve around significant titles like Black Ops 6, Starfield, and others. However, one independent developer has shared insights on why the service is such a beneficial platform for indie games like theirs.

During a recent Reddit AMA, Thomas Sala, the independent creator behind indie treasures The Falconeer and Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles, was asked about his perspective on Xbox’s Game Pass model. Sala’s first game, The Falconeer, arrived on Game Pass about a year after its original release, and due to the visibility it received there, he would love to be featured on the platform again.

“I’d jump at the chance to be on Game Pass whenever they can make it work, without any hesitation,” Sala expresses. “Falconeer achieved around a million installs on Game Pass.” He emphasizes that, for him, developing games isn’t primarily about financial gain, but rather an excellent way to reach a new audience. “I’m a developer, I just want players, [I] don’t care about the money; let people play!”

Unfortunately, as Sala highlights, getting a game included on Game Pass is not solely in the hands of developers or publishers, noting that “Microsoft carefully curates Game Pass with a regular release schedule. If your game aligns with their timetable and meets their criteria, and you indicate your willingness to negotiate, Microsoft may extend an offer.”

That being said, Sala remains optimistic about the service and believes that for developers fortunate enough to secure a spot, it can be exceptionally rewarding. “These opportunities are up to the powers in Redmond, and if you manage to get in, it’s typically very beneficial for a developer, especially in the indie scene. They are quite fair in their compensation, and you reach a large audience.”

If you’re a subscriber, make sure to check out the best games on Game Pass right now.