Rumor mill: Leaks, rumors, and feedback from Microsoft over the previous few years have fueled hypothesis that the corporate is essentially altering its console technique. If the most recent data is correct, the following Xbox might primarily be a Home windows PC with a console-style consumer interface that runs older Xbox video games via emulation.
A most up-to-date leak outlines Microsoft’s alleged plans to launch a console-like entrance finish for Home windows, permitting customers to put in Steam through the Microsoft Retailer, and launch an Xbox emulator for PC. Whereas some particulars align with earlier rumors, readers ought to take the data with a large grain of salt.
Though the video under is in Spanish from leaker eXtas1s, a translated abstract by ResetEra consumer “P40L0” describes a console-style overlay for Home windows. Much like Steam’s Massive Image mode or the SteamOS interface, the brand new UI would assist each PC gaming and the next-generation Xbox.
This complete idea ties sort of completely into Microsoft’s long-standing aim of bettering the Home windows expertise on handheld gaming PCs – if that is in the end a path the corporate chooses to pursue.
The controller-friendly interface in SteamOS makes the Steam Deck considerably extra user-friendly than extra highly effective Home windows units just like the Asus ROG Ally. Microsoft reportedly plans to deal with this hole someday this yr. A leaked collaboration between Microsoft and Asus might be step one towards introducing an Xbox-style UI for Home windows.
Moreover, eXtas1s claims that Microsoft is internally testing a Steam installer accessible via the Microsoft Retailer. The launcher, titled “Steam DF Beta,” is just not meant for present Xbox consoles however fairly for Home windows, much like the prevailing Epic Video games Retailer and Ubisoft Join apps accessible on the platform.
The data is perhaps linked to supposedly revamped Xbox app for Home windows that includes a Steam filter. Mixed with mockups of an upcoming Asus handheld, the leak suggests Microsoft is aiming to combine Steam extra seamlessly into the Home windows UI, making a extra console-like expertise for customers.
Microsoft can be reportedly growing an emulator for Home windows that helps your complete Xbox again catalog. If the following Xbox features as a Home windows PC with a gamepad-friendly interface, this emulation-based backward compatibility would permit customers to hold over their present Xbox libraries.
Moreover, Recreation Go is anticipated to stay a cornerstone of Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem. Nevertheless, the corporate might quickly elevate costs on present console and PC tiers whereas introducing new, extra reasonably priced choices.
