BB-8 is shown in a Project Spark creation (Photo : YouTube / Project Spark)
Microsoft is shutting down their Project Spark video game creator as they end the online services because the company believes it is no longer feasible to maintain the development.
Project Spark allowed gamers to create their own games with a unique set of tools. Creators can create both 2D and 3D games within the game engine.
The tool was launched for both the Xbox One and Windows PC. It did not have complicated coding requirements and the game worlds were easily created through a set of tools that can sculpt the massive sandbox.
Now, Microsoft is pulling the plug on Project Spark. The Redmond-based company said that many of the team members originally working on the game platform have moved on to other projects within Microsoft Studios, PC Magazine reported.
Gamers and creators will not be able to go online or download the Project Spark client starting on August 12. The games that have been downloaded on a user's hard drive can still be played offline but they will not be able to upload more of their content or download more from others after the set date.
"Despite this news, we want to celebrate the accomplishments of our team and community of creators and players. Our team released 46 content packs, thousands of assets and 16 updates since launch (averaging more than one update every two months). We produced hundreds of livestreams and videos to educate and celebrate our community," Microsoft said in an official blog post.
Customers who recently bought Project Spark will be given automatic credits that they can use on either the Microsoft or Xbox store. This is to appease the users who feel that they have bought a dying game.
Project Spark open beta was launched in December 2013, Gamespresso reported. Those who bought the retail version of the Project Spark Starter Kit will be given the credit while those who redeemed a code since October 5, 2015 will be given a different credit.
The game platform tool allowed users to create unique games without spending too much on development. There were even creations that were not games per se, but short films and animations.
