Why Studios Are Switching from PlayFab to LootLocker (And What It Takes to Migrate)

Microsoft’s latest round of layoffs last week has sent shockwaves through the games industry, with games being canceled, studios shuttered, and thousands of talented individuals let go. While the full impact on Microsoft’s Azure PlayFab backend isn’t yet clear, we’ve been hearing the same concern from developers around the world: they’re worried. Worried about what ongoing support for their games will look like, about what changes might be coming, and about relying on a backend with an increasingly uncertain future.

That’s why we put this guide together. If you're using PlayFab, whether for a game in development or already live, and you're starting to think about alternatives, this post walks through what it would take to migrate to a more modern, developer-friendly backend. While LootLocker isn’t the only backend solution available, we believe it’s the closest equivalent to PlayFab in terms of features and flexibility, with the added benefit of a clearer product vision.

Why Choose LootLocker?

LootLocker is built for today’s developers: indie teams, mid-size studios, and multi-game publishers alike. It’s especially well-suited for cross-platform titles, live games, and connected game catalogs. Here’s what makes it different:

Focused product set: We concentrate on four core, vertically integrated areas: Player Operations, Platform Commerce, Content Management, and Game Systems. We don’t try to be everything for everyone, just the best in our lane.
Easy integration: Our open-source SDKs for both client and server support Unity and Unreal out of the box. Integration is fast and straightforward, and if you run into issues, our best-in-class documentation and active Discord community have your back.
Transparent, flexible pricing: Whether you’re a solo dev or a large publisher, our pricing is predictable and scales with your success. No surprise fees, no usage black boxes.

Can LootLocker Really Replace PlayFab?

In most cases: absolutely. For key features like authentication, platform integrations, player data, inventory, economy, content management, leaderboards, and progression, LootLocker offers modern, streamlined equivalents that are easier to implement and maintain.

Where PlayFab leans into deep telemetry and cloud scripting, LootLocker takes a more focused approach. If your backend depends heavily on real-time cloud functions or analytics, you’ll likely want to complement LootLocker with your own logic or external services.

Likewise, for multiplayer server orchestration or matchmaking, we recommend pairing LootLocker with best-in-class partners like Edgegap, Gameye, Hathora, or AWS Gamelift. We’re here to power everything else.

What Does Migration Look Like?

Here’s how most studios approach the switch:

Audit your current setup: List the features and systems you rely on in PlayFab.
Map to LootLocker equivalents: You’ll find replacements for most systems and often simpler workflows. Not sure? We’re happy to help.
Export your data: This usually includes player profiles, inventories, progressions, and leaderboard data.
Import to LootLocker: You can handle this via the web console or programmatically through our APIs. For larger migrations, reach out so we can support the process.
Update your game: Replace PlayFab SDK calls with LootLocker SDK calls. Many teams do this gradually starting with authentication calls.
Test your integration: Use a separate LootLocker game project or swap API keys to safely test before going live.
Go live: Once validated, switch over fully to LootLocker and start running your game on your terms.

Why Studios Are Making the Switch

Studios are moving to LootLocker because they want to:

Simplify backend development with a trusted, responsive partner
Escape rising or unpredictable costs
Launch faster, scale smarter, and stay focused on the game

Whether you're launching your first title or managing a full portfolio, LootLocker gives you the tools to treat your games like a platform and your players like a community.

Ready to explore?