Game Development Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 8. Getting into the Store
So now you have a game, polished and ready to distribute. The next step is to get it
into a place where others can download it, or maybe even buy it. In Windows 8 this
would be the Windows Store. Just like most other app stores out there, the Windows
store has a certification process that must be passed, but think of it as a great way to
check the quality of your code and maybe even get some free testing before review-
ing players get their hands on your game.
This chapter will look at the process to go about submitting your game for certification
and sale. We'll look at each step that applies to games and the common issues that
lead to certification failure. If you're looking for information on selling your game, or
other ways to monetize it, check out the next chapter as we'll take a look at ways to
make money from your game, including using trial mode and in-app purchases.
So over the course of this chapter we'll look at the following:
• Getting a Windows Store account
• Creating your game/reserving a name
• Windows Application Certification Kit
• Creating packages for the store
• Screenshots and icons
• Game ratings
• Submitting to the store
• Common issues with certification
Hopefully this and the next chapter will help you get your games out into the market-
place and into player's hands. Who knows, you might even make some money with
them.
Note
Note that, as the store is a service run by Microsoft, it is subject to change at any
time. While correct at the time of writing, some information in this chapter may be
incorrect and outdated in future.
