Microsoft will be putting the power of XBOX 360 game development in the hands of gamers beginning August 30. At that time, Microsoft will make available a beta version of its XNA Game Studio Express software which allows hobbyists to create games for both Windows XP/Vista and XBOX 360 platforms. A final version of the software, which is built on Visual Studio Express and .NET technology, is expected to be made available from the software giant by the end of the year.
For those looking to take their game development to the next level, gamers will be able to join a "creator's club" for $99 per year. The subscription affords budding developers the ability to build, test and distribute their games for the XBOX 360. Additional tools will also be at their disposal to make game development faster and simpler.
