Microsoft confirms split marketplace for Windows Phone 7

While Microsoft has revealed its aspirations for a controlled, console-like experience with Windows Phone 7, it’s not closing the door on smaller smartphone game developers.

In a recent interview, Kevin Unangst of Microsoft confirmed that there would be two tiers to the company’s mobile games platform.

The top tier will include games with Xbox Live integration, making use of Achievement Points and leaderboards. These will have to pass through a much tougher, console-standard approval process.

However, Unangst also said that there will be a second "open marketplace anybody can write games for and publish to." Something more akin to the App Store or Android Market.

“You don't have to use Xbox Live on the phone," assured Unangst.

It’s all part of Microsoft’s philosophy of “proactively finding the best content for the phone,” regardless of the original platform or the size of the developer.

“We're working with everybody from the big guys to the small indies,” said Unangst.