Microsoft has inadvertently revealed a potential new feature for the Xbox UI that could allow players to view all their installed PC games from various platforms, such as Steam and the Epic Games Store. This glimpse into the future was briefly showcased in a now-removed image from a Microsoft blog post titled "Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox," as reported by The Verge. The image displayed a variety of devices, including Xbox Series X | S consoles, phones, and tablets, with one device clearly showing a "Steam" tab.
This unexpected inclusion of Steam in the Xbox UI mockup is intriguing, especially since Valve's digital storefront typically does not integrate directly with Microsoft's gaming hardware. The swift removal of the image from the blog post suggests that the reveal was unintentional, sparking curiosity and speculation among gaming enthusiasts.
According to sources cited by The Verge, Microsoft is indeed exploring an update that would not only integrate Steam but also other PC gaming platforms. This feature would enable players to see all their PC games, along with the respective storefronts from which they were purchased. However, it's important to note that this project is still in its early stages, and any potential rollout remains uncertain.
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The mention of Steam in an official Xbox context is noteworthy, especially given Microsoft's ongoing efforts to expand its gaming ecosystem across multiple platforms. Over the past decade, Microsoft has increasingly brought its titles to PC and other gaming systems. Notable examples include Pentiment and Grounded, which are available on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. Additionally, rumors suggest that the Master Chief Collection may soon be available on PlayStation.
Microsoft has been actively working to merge the Xbox and PC gaming experiences. The recent "This is an Xbox" campaign highlights the various devices on which players can enjoy Xbox games. In an interview with Polygon, Xbox head Phil Spencer hinted at a future where PC gaming stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be accessible directly on Xbox hardware.
Looking ahead, reports indicate that Microsoft's next-generation Xbox, expected in 2027, will be more akin to a PC than any previous Xbox model. This development underscores Microsoft's commitment to a more integrated and versatile gaming ecosystem.