Gamasutra expert blogs: From contractor commandments to Windows 8 for indies

[In highlights from Gamasutra's Expert Blogs, industry notables write about diverse topics, including why indies should consider developing for Windows 8, the seven commandments of contracting, and more.] In our weekly Best of Expert Blogs column, we showcase notable pieces of writing from members of the game development community who maintain Expert Blogs on Gamasutra. Member Blogs -- also highlighted weekly -- can be maintained by any registered Gamasutra user, while the invitation-only Expert Blogs are written by development professionals with a wealth of experience to share. We hope that both sections can provide useful and interesting viewpoints on our industry. For more information about the blogs, check out the latest official posting guidelines. Here are the top blogs for the week: This Week's Standout Expert Blogs The case for a Windows 8 ecosystem for independent developers: Think twice about Apple and Android (Mikael Lefebvre) With Apple's App Store being overcrowded and the cost of acquisition high and with Android's impossible fragmentation, Mikael Lefebvre argues that the Windows 8 ecosystem should be considered for independent game developers. Phases in games (Lewis Pulsipher) Phases in a game design are important. These are distinctly different periods of play through the course of a game. Lewis Pulsipher points out that they provide at least a perception, if not an actuality, of change, growth, and learning. What's the best strategy to survive and thrive in an ever-changing marketplace? (Mekersa David) In dire straits after the release of its mid-core adventure game Age of Enigma, Casual Box's Mekersa David reveals his team's experiences, revenue, and strategy to survive and thrive in an ever-changing marketplace. From full-time to freelance: The seven commandments of contracting (Jon Jones) Are you thinking of making the leap to being a full-time freelance contractor? Jon Jones shares a few things you should know before making such a huge transition.