Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 to better support gaming handhelds by developing a dedicated interface for gamepad controls. Recent Windows 11 preview builds have revealed references to a "full screen experience" that users may set as their default home experience upon startup. Specific phrases such as "Boot into the Full screen experience at device startup" suggest users will have options for multiple game-focused interfaces. Microsoft is also rumored to be collaborating with ASUS on a gaming handheld called Project Kennan, which will be the first Windows-powered handheld under the Xbox ecosystem. An official announcement regarding this new Xbox ecosystem is anticipated, with the ASUS handheld expected to launch later this year.
“The Last of Us Part II Remastered” will be released on PC on April 3, 2025, available on Steam and the Epic Games Store. This marks the first time Windows users can access the game, which previously received over 300 Game of the Year awards on PlayStation. The remastered edition includes enhancements such as improved graphics, performance, and new content, including a roguelike mode called “No Return.” Pre-orders are currently available. The PC version will support customizable graphics settings, ultrawide monitor support, and full DualSense controller features. New playable characters Bill and Marlene will be introduced in the “No Return” mode, alongside a Guitar Free Play mode and restored cut content. The game will require a minimum of an Intel Core i3-8100 or AMD Ryzen 3 1300x processor and 16GB RAM.