Microsoft plans cheaper Xbox 360 dev kits

A cheaper, better version of the Xbox 360 development kit is coming soon from Microsoft. This new rig will have extra RAM, flash memory, a larger hard disc drive set, and it will all come in a smaller case. There isn’t a final price yet, but Gamasutra’s report says that the cost will be “significantly reduced.” The kit will include the option to license a Sidecar device for debugging and disc emulation. One Sidecar can be used across multiple debug consoles, further reducing costs.

This all comes as good news for those smaller studios that want to get onto the Xbox 360. This will bring down development costs, opening up doors for more studios. Eventually this all will benefit the gamers — more games from more studios.