Microsoft has unveiled a significant update to its Xbox PC app, integrating support for Steam games. This move comes after an earlier hint at a revamped Xbox app for PC that would cater to various PC stores, foreshadowing a potential shift towards a universal launcher akin to GOG Galaxy or Playnite. The company’s recent focus on a gaming-centric version of Windows for portable devices laid the groundwork for this development, which is now being experienced firsthand by Xbox Insiders.
The new feature, dubbed the ‘aggregated gaming library,’ is scheduled for release during the holiday season on the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X platforms, offering users a centralized hub to manage all their installed games conveniently. While the broader rollout is planned for later, Xbox Insiders on PC have the opportunity to test the feature early and provide valuable feedback to Microsoft.
The current iteration of the feature supports a range of storefronts, including Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other leading PC platforms, all accessible through the Xbox PC app. Although specific storefronts were not disclosed, popular options like Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, and EA Play are likely candidates.
Insiders can easily locate games from supported storefronts within the Xbox app under the My Library and Most Recent sections once installed on their PCs. Microsoft has assured users that this is just the beginning, with plans to introduce support for additional PC storefronts gradually over time.
For added flexibility, users can customize their experience by disabling the feature and hiding games from specific stores through the Settings menu. Those eager to test the ‘aggregated gaming library’ update can join the ongoing Insider Previews by signing up through the Xbox Insider app on PC.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, incorporating features that streamline the gaming experience across platforms is becoming increasingly essential. Microsoft’s decision to integrate Steam game support into its Xbox PC app reflects a broader trend towards enhancing user convenience and accessibility in the gaming industry.
While the full implications of this update are yet to be seen, the move signals a shift towards a more unified gaming ecosystem, where players can seamlessly access and manage their game libraries from a single interface. As the industry embraces cross-platform functionality and user-friendly interfaces, initiatives like the ‘aggregated gaming library’ are likely to set a new standard for gaming platforms moving forward.
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