Microsoft is finally cracking down on an exploitative practise of cluttering its digital storefront with several copies of the same game–known as bundle spamming–via a series of new policies.
As reported in True Achievements, Microsoft raised the issue of an “increase in bundle spamming” on the storefront, which has “resulted in a large number of complaints from both developers and consumers.”
In an email sent to developers, the corporation stated, “After an investigation, Microsoft has determined that bundles focusing on different platforms with undifferentiated content in an attempt to maximize digital shelf space are incompatible with Section 3 of the Developer Code of Conduct, as they confuse players and are an attempt to manipulate the search results for a game.”
“We will no longer enable bundles that contain different platform SKUs of the same game. Additionally, other attempts to manipulate the Store search results may result in bundles being delisted or not granted.”
Microsoft also set out a list of new criteria required for getting a bundle listed that will “prevent practices that could lead to confusion, clutter, or manipulation within the Store ecosystem, thereby preserving a fair and enjoyable browsing environment for all users and publishers.” While not exhaustive, these include:
- Bundles should not consist solely of different SKUs of the same game (e.g., Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox PC versions) unless there is meaningful differentiation in content
- Meaningful differentiation includes editions such as Standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate, where each provides unique or additional content, as well as cases where the distinct platform versions have notable differences, such as resolution or frame rate
- A single product with similar or minimally differentiated bundles taking up an excessive number of slots in new releases, search results, or other Store channels is not permitted
- Multiple product bundles in which the platform is the only thing unique between two bundles of the same content are not permitted
- Visual and content differentiation should be clear to avoid customer confusion and Store clutter
- Do not create bundles with the sole (or perceived) intent to manipulate discounting cooldown periods, search results, or other discovery mechanisms, or to manipulate in any way the operation of the Store
While decluttering its storefront, Microsoft is also making it easier for Xbox users to track their owned games with an update to the Xbox Dashboard that includes a “Free with Xbox” tab, which separates demos and limited-time trials from “Owned Games”.
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