Report: Microsoft Phasing out Microsoft Points

Microsoft Points have long been a point of contention for Xbox LIVE
gamers, requiring you to buy into the system before you can purchase
much of the content available through the service. Users have been
critical of the point system, which can be confusing to gamers simply
looking to buy their games and content without the rigmarole of
purchasing points, and frustrating when unusable points are left over.


Over the years, the use of Microsoft Points has spread beyond Xbox LIVE
to other Microsoft services, including Zune Marketplace, Games for
Windows, and Windows Phone. The system is engrained in just about every
section of Microsoft's online purchasing presence, but that might not be
the case for much longer.


It appears that Microsoft might be phasing out the system in favor of straight up money transactions. Inside Mobile Apps
is reporting that by the end of 2012, real world money will be used for
all transations moving forward. Any outstanding balances will be
switched over to the account's local currency. The site cites publishing
agreements between mobile developers and Microsoft, warning devs to
plan accordingly for the upcoming change.


While this is lodged firmly into the rumor camp (Microsoft has given the
standard "we do not comment on rumors or speculation" response), we
can't imagine too many Xbox 360 gamers would be bummed out of Microsoft
got rid of Microsoft Points. What do you think?


Thanks Inside Mobile Apps.