Microsoft says it will reduce the cut it takes from PC game sales to match Epic

Microsoft is to dramatically reduce the revenue cut it takes from the sale of PC games on the Microsoft Store.

In a massive shake-up to platform fees, beginning on August 1, 2021, the developer share of net revenue generated through Microsoft Store PC games sales will rise from 70 percent to 88 percent.

The Epic Games store also offers developers an 88 percent share of the revenue their games bring in, compared to the 70/30 percent revenue split offered by rival Steam, as well as digital platforms operated by companies including Microsoft, Sony and Apple.

“As part of our commitment to empower every PC game creator to achieve more, starting on August 1 the developer share of Microsoft Store PC games sales net revenue will increase to 88%, from 70%,” Xbox Game Studios boss Matt Booty said on Thursday.

“A clear, no-strings-attached revenue share means developers can bring more games to more players and find greater commercial success from doing so.”

Booty said Microsoft is planning various improvements to its store client on PC too.

“We regularly work on features and functionality that improves and/or allows for a more customized experience like Xbox Game Bar. We’re also bringing more quality-of-life improvements to PC gamers, including improved install reliability and faster download speeds over the next few months.”

Microsoft also detailed the “premier PC experience” it has planned for Halo Infinite, confirming cross-platform multiplayer and more.