XBOX Game Development
Build and publish games for XBOX Series X|S, XBOX One, and Windows PC using the XBOX Game Development Kit (GDK), PlayFab, and XBOX services.
Start here
From a game idea to a build running on hardware.
Products this applies to
XBOX Series X/S consoles
XBOX One family consoles
Windows PC
Key terms
The four-step path
Jump into the guides most teams use first, from environment setup to release notes and reference material.
Common scoping questions
I'm a solo developer or an indie studio. Is XBOX development for me?
I'm a solo developer or an indie studio. Is XBOX development for me?
Yes. ID@XBOX supports indie studios and solo developers. There is no cost to join, and the tools (GDK, Visual Studio, PlayFab) are the same tools large studios use. You can develop entirely on a Windows PC. You need a dev kit only when you’re ready to test on XBOX hardware.
I use Unity, Unreal, or Godot. Do I still need the GDK?
I use Unity, Unreal, or Godot. Do I still need the GDK?
Yes, but you rarely interact with it directly. Your engine calls the GDK for you. You still install the GDK on your PC so the engine can package your game for XBOX and use XBOX features such as achievements and cloud saves. Select your engine’s Getting Started guide in step 4.
I already have a PC or Steam game. Can I port it?
I already have a PC or Steam game. Can I port it?
Yes. Porting is often faster than starting from scratch because your gameplay code is already written. Start with the Porting path, or go directly to your source platform: From Steam, From a prior XBOX generation, From other platforms, or From PC (non-Steam).
What operating system and hardware do I need?
What operating system and hardware do I need?
You need a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC with space for the GDK. No XBOX console is required to start. You can build and test Play Anywhere PC builds locally. When you’re ready to test on XBOX hardware, order a dev kit through Partner Center.
Documentation sections
After your Getting Started guide points you deeper into the docs, use these sections:
Build
GDK deep dives: game config, packaging, saves, input, networking, and cross-device development.
Services
XBOX services and PlayFab: identity, achievements, multiplayer, economy, and live-ops.
Console features
Quick Resume, DirectStorage, Smart Delivery, and other console-only capabilities.
Tools
Visual Studio setup, XBOX service tools, profilers, and diagnostics.
Publishing & commerce
Certification, XR requirements, store listing, pricing, and submission.
API Reference
Gaming Runtime, XBOX services, and platform APIs.
Quick links
Once your Getting Started guide points you deeper into the docs, use these sections: