Xbox and Steam: A Match Made in Gaming Heaven?

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, Microsoft recently posted and then quickly removed an image of a new Xbox UI that listed Steam games. The image, which was briefly shared on the company’s blog, showed a console-like interface across multiple devices, including a TV, tablet, and handheld console. While the image was quickly taken down, the implications are significant: could we be seeing the beginning of a new era of cooperation between Xbox and Steam?

A Unified Gaming Experience

The image, which appears to be a mockup, shows a new Xbox UI that lists games from multiple sources, including Steam and the Epic Games Store. This is not a surprise, given Microsoft’s previous statements about combining the best of Xbox and Windows together for handheld devices. In fact, sources close to the company have confirmed that an upcoming update to the Xbox app will allow users to see all their installed games, including those from Steam and the Epic Games Store.

This move would be a significant departure from the current state of affairs, where gamers are forced to juggle multiple launchers and accounts to access their games. By integrating Steam games into the Xbox app, Microsoft would be creating a unified gaming experience that would allow users to access all their games in one place.

The Benefits of Cooperation

So why would Microsoft want to integrate Steam games into the Xbox app? The answer lies in the company’s desire to make the Xbox app the home of PC gaming. By listing Steam games in the app, Microsoft would be able to attract a wider audience and create a more comprehensive gaming experience. This would also give gamers more flexibility and choice, as they would be able to access their games across multiple platforms.

GOG, a digital distribution platform, has already implemented a similar system, allowing users to see their games across multiple launchers. This move would put Microsoft in a similar position, and could potentially give the company a competitive edge in the gaming market.

What’s Next?

While the image was quickly removed, the implications are significant. Microsoft has been working on making the Xbox app the home of PC gaming, and this move would be a major step in that direction. We can expect to see more developments in the coming months, as Microsoft continues to work on its Xbox app update.

Actionable Insights

• Keep an eye on Microsoft’s Xbox app update, which is expected to include the ability to list Steam games.
• Expect to see more cooperation between Xbox and Steam in the future.
• The integration of Steam games into the Xbox app could create a more comprehensive gaming experience for users.

Conclusion

The recent image of a new Xbox UI listing Steam games is a significant development in the gaming world. While the image was quickly removed, the implications are clear: Microsoft is working towards creating a unified gaming experience that would allow users to access all their games in one place. As the company continues to work on its Xbox app update, we can expect to see more developments in the coming months. One thing is certain: the future of gaming is looking bright, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.