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Microsoft’s Potential Shift in PC Gaming Strategy
In a recent episode of the Xbox Two Podcast, Windows Central editor Jez Corden shed light on Microsoft’s evolving approach to PC gaming. While discussing the company’s future plans, he hinted at a hypothetical scenario where Microsoft might consider moving its games away from Steam. It’s important to note that this is not a confirmed strategy, but rather a possibility that has emerged in internal discussions.
“Microsoft has some plans with regards to how they show up on PC, shall I say, and I don’t know what that pertains to with regards to Steam. But the plans that I know about, and I’ve got to be careful here, suggest it gives them a window to potentially pull out of Steam. So I would not be shocked if eventually we do see a universe where Microsoft quits Steam. But, I mean, we’ll have to wait and see. I think it could go either way right now. I’m trying, I’m doing my research.”
— Jez Corden, Xbox Two Podcast
With Asha Sharma at the helm as the new CEO of Xbox, the company is undergoing a strategic transformation aimed at consolidating its brand under the “Xbox” umbrella. This shift appears to be steering Microsoft towards a more exclusive model, focusing on proprietary titles rather than multi-platform releases. While this strategy primarily targets console gamers, there are indications that it may extend to PC as well, potentially limiting access to Microsoft games through its own storefront.
In response to a query on Twitter/X from user @IdleSloth84_, Corden expressed skepticism about the likelihood of this shift actually occurring. He emphasized the financial implications, suggesting that moving away from Steam could result in significant revenue losses that Microsoft would likely want to avoid.
“I REALLY doubt they will, but they’re doing something that could potentially give them a window to do so, but there’s just too much money to be left on the table, in my opinion. It was part of a bigger discussion.”
— Jez Corden, Twitter
The prospect of such a change raises concerns among gamers who value the freedom and choice that the current multi-store ecosystem provides. While Microsoft’s rationale for exclusivity is understandable, many hope that the company will continue to support a diverse marketplace that allows players to enjoy their games across various platforms.
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