Xbox devs can get $1500 worth of free software

Unity Technologies and Microsoft announced a strategic partnership yesterday at the annual Build Conference in San Francisco. Unity Pro software will be free for developers when their game is published through Microsoft Studios for the Xbox 360 or the Xbox One.

In addition, Unity will develop tools for the Xbox One entertainment system, including support for many next-generation features such as enhanced Kinect gestures and recognition, multiplayer matchmaking, SmartGlass and the unlimited power of the cloud.

Man, that cloud! It’s got unlimited power!

Current licensees of Unity Pro will receive a free upgrade for the Windows Store Add-on when it becomes available later this year.

Unity software has been used to develop thousands of games for the PS3, PC, Xbox 360, and mobile platforms.