Launch of Xbox Live Arcade

The launch of Xbox Live Arcade (XBLA) marked a pivotal development in the gaming industry, particularly for independent game developers. This platform was introduced by Microsoft to provide a dedicated space for smaller publishers and indie teams to distribute their games on the Xbox and later on the Xbox 360. Prior to XBLA, the gaming market was predominantly dominated by major publishers and triple-A titles, which made it challenging for indie developers to gain visibility and reach a broader audience. The introduction of XBLA allowed these developers to showcase their creativity and innovation, leading to a diverse range of games that appealed to various player demographics. Notable titles such as Super Meat Boy, Fez, and Braid emerged during this period, receiving critical acclaim and commercial success, which further validated the potential of indie games in the mainstream market.