Create a game package and upload it in Partner Center

Important

This article describes features that require enrollment as an XBOX creator. To get started, register for ID@XBOX. If you're already enrolled but aren't able to use the described features, speak to your XBOX contacts.

This article describes how to create a game package by using the Game Development Kit (GDK), and upload it in Partner Center.

Prerequisites

  • Enrollment as an XBOX creator. To learn more, see Register as an XBOX creator.
  • Active Partner Center account. If you don't have an account yet, contact your XBOX team.
  • Approved Game Concept for your product. To learn more, see Submit game concepts.

Prerequisites

Install the Game Development Kit (GDK)

Begin by installing the GDK. XBOX creators can download the GDK, samples, and tools from XBOX Secure Downloads.

Begin by installing the GDK. Developers can download the GDK from Game Development Kit - GitHub.

For more information, see Access Microsoft Game Development Kit (GDK) Development Resources.

Create a game package

When you prepare your game for release, combine the executable (.exe) and all required content into a single package. To create packages, use the MakePkg tool (MakePkg.exe) included in the GDK.

Game packages must use the correct format:

  • Console games use the XVC format.
  • PC games use the MSIXVC format.
  • Other package types aren't supported.

Important

XBOX Play Anywhere

If you're creating an XBOX Play Anywhere game, create both an XVC package and an MSIXVC package.

For detailed guidance, see:

Packages for PC games published in the Microsoft Store on Windows use the MSIXVC format. For detailed instructions, see Getting started with packaging for PC games.

Packaging tools embedded in game engines

Some game engines, such as Unity and Unreal Engine, include built-in packaging tools. Implementation varies by engine, so refer to your engine's documentation for guidance.

Upload a game package

Prerequisites

Before you upload a package, make sure you have:

  • A valid package:
    • MSIXVC for XBOX on PC.
    • XVC for XBOX consoles.
    • Includes the executable (.exe) and all required content.ny other content that the game needs.
    • For XBOX Play Anywhere, prepare both package formats.
  • An EKB (Escrow Key Blob) file for each package.
  • A Symbols (.zip) file for each package.
  • A Submission Validator (.xml) file for each package.
  • A valid MSIXVC package
    • Includes the executable (.exe) and all required content.
  • An EKB (Escrow Key Blob) file for each package.
  • A Symbols (.zip) file for each package.
  • A Submission Validator (.xml) file for each package.

Package upload process

  1. Sign in to Partner Center.
  2. On the Home page, select Apps and games.
  3. On the Apps and games | Overview page, select your game, or search for it.
  4. Select Packages.
  5. Select Upload package in the Main branch. For more information, see Packages.
  6. Select Browse your files, then select the package to upload.
  7. When prompted, upload the EKB (Escrow Key Blob) file.
  8. Upload the Symbols (.zip) file generated during packaging.
  9. Upload the Submission Validator (.xml) log file generated during packaging.
  10. Select Save draft.

Next steps

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