How do I distribute to Xbox?

[DrWxlfz]

I am new to Unreal Engine and I planning on building with it. So, I want to distribute to Xbox with the Creators Program which I am registered in. You don’t need a devkit, you can turn on dev mode with the Creators program. Anyways, how do I actually like… get it on there? Is it a file or what? How should I export it and put into the portal? Thanks.

[DrWxlfz]

Should I go off ChatGPT? Here’s what it said, it’s a bit long:

"Distributing your game for Xbox involves several steps, from packaging your game to submitting it for certification and finally making it available on the Microsoft Store. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do this using the Xbox Live Creators Program:

1. Package Your Game

First, ensure your game is properly packaged and ready for distribution:

• Open your Unreal Engine project.
• Navigate to File > Package Project > Universal Windows Platform.
• Choose the appropriate settings for your game, including target device family (Xbox) and build configuration (Shipping for release builds).
• Package your game. This process will generate the necessary files for submission.

2. Prepare for Submission

Before you can submit your game, you need to prepare certain information and assets:

• Game Title and Description: Write a title and a detailed description of your game.
• Screenshots and Videos: Prepare high-quality screenshots and promotional videos showcasing your game.
• Game Rating: Obtain an age rating for your game if required. This can be done through the IARC rating system integrated into the Microsoft Store submission process.
• Icons and Artwork: Prepare icons and other artwork according to the specifications provided by Microsoft.

3. Sign Up for the Xbox Live Creators Program

If you haven’t already, sign up for the Xbox Live Creators Program:

• Visit the Microsoft Developer Portal.
• Follow the instructions to join the program. You’ll need a Microsoft Developer account, which might have a registration fee.

4. Submit Your Game

5. Access the Partner Center:

   • Log in to the Partner Center.

6. Create a New Submission:

   • Go to the Windows and Xbox tab.
   • Click Create a new submission.
   • Fill in the required information about your game, including the package you created earlier.

7. Upload Your Package:

   • Upload the packaged game files.
   • Fill in details like version numbers, capabilities, and system requirements.

8. Add Xbox Live Services (if applicable):

   • If your game uses Xbox Live services, configure them in the Xbox Live section.

9. Provide Store Details:

   • Enter the game’s description, screenshots, videos, and other promotional materials.
   • Set pricing and availability options for your game.

10. Submit for Certification:

    • Once all the details are filled in and your package is uploaded, submit your game for certification.
    • Microsoft will review your submission to ensure it meets their standards.

11. Certification Process

• Review: Microsoft will review your game for compliance with their policies and technical standards.
• Feedback: If there are any issues, you’ll receive feedback and can make necessary changes.
• Approval: Once your game passes certification, you’ll receive approval to publish.

6. Publish Your Game

After certification, you can publish your game:

• Go back to the Partner Center.
• Find your game submission and finalize any last details.
• Click Publish to make your game available on the Microsoft Store.

7. Post-Release Management

• Updates and Patches: Regularly update your game with patches and new content as needed.
• Player Feedback: Monitor player feedback and respond to any issues that arise.
• Promotion: Promote your game through various channels to increase visibility and sales.

By following these steps, you can successfully distribute your game to Xbox players using the Xbox Live Creators Program."

[Maercc]

The ChatGPT response seem to be correct. You’ll want to sign up for a developer account at: Register as an app developer – Windows app development | Microsoft Developer

After being registered you’ll be able to access the game development kit and then specifically the Xbox porting kit. Game Development Kit (GDK) documentation - Microsoft Game Development Kit | Microsoft Learn (this link requires you to be a registered developer)

From there you’ll be able to follow what’s provided by Microsoft.