What's Happening?
Meta has introduced a new Indie Catalog to its Horizon+ subscription service for Quest headsets, allowing developers to apply for inclusion rather than waiting for an invitation. The Horizon+ service, priced at $8 per month, currently offers two main components: monthly redeemable games and a rotating Games Catalog. The new Indie Catalog is being beta tested and aims to provide smaller titles a platform within the subscription service. To qualify for the Indie Catalog, games must be paid apps on the Horizon Store, have been published for at least six months, maintain a 4-star rating or higher, and have at least 50 monthly active users. Additionally, games must have between $50 and $3,500 in average monthly revenue from base game sales over the last 90 days. Meta emphasizes that games with significant moderation challenges or technical issues will not be accepted.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of the Indie Catalog in Horizon+ is significant for the VR gaming industry as it provides smaller developers with an opportunity to reach a broader audience through Meta's subscription service. This move could democratize access to VR gaming, allowing indie developers to benefit from increased visibility and potential revenue. By offering a share of the subscription revenue based on game performance, Meta incentivizes developers to maintain high-quality standards. This development could lead to a more diverse range of games available to Quest users, enhancing the overall VR experience and potentially driving more subscriptions to Horizon+.
What's Next?
As Meta continues to beta test the Indie Catalog, developers are encouraged to apply through the Meta Developer Dashboard. The success of this initiative will likely depend on the quality and variety of games included, as well as the revenue-sharing model's effectiveness in attracting developers. Meta's approach to moderating content and ensuring technical stability will be crucial in maintaining user satisfaction. The company may expand the Indie Catalog further if the beta phase proves successful, potentially increasing the subscription's appeal to new Quest headset buyers.
Beyond the Headlines
The expansion of Horizon+ with an Indie Catalog could have broader implications for the VR industry, encouraging innovation and creativity among indie developers. By lowering barriers to entry, Meta may foster a more competitive environment, pushing developers to create unique and engaging content. This could lead to a shift in the VR market dynamics, where indie games play a more prominent role alongside established titles. Additionally, the focus on quality and user experience may set new standards for VR game development.
