Microsoft retiring Xbox.com PC Marketplace on August 22

Microsoft is closing the Xbox.com PC Marketplace on August 22, the company has said, alongside the Xbox 360 update that will retire Microsoft points in favour of local currency purchases.

"As part of the recent Xbox 360 system update, Microsoft Points will be retired and the Xbox.com PC Marketplace will be closed as of August 22, 2013," says Microsoft on its support site.

The Games for Windows Live service will continue to operate, the company adds, and customers who have purchased content already through the service will still be able to redownload it through the Games for Windows Live client.

"We encourage you to spend your Microsoft Points balance prior to this change. Although you will not be able to purchase new games, you can continue to enjoy previously purchased content by downloading it through the Games for Windows Live client software as usual."

The news comes days after former Steam boss Jason Holtman joined Microsoft.

Microsoft has posted more information as part of a FAQ on Xbox.com.