Arm-powered Windows devices, primarily utilizing Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, are gaining attention for their sleek designs and impressive battery longevity. While many compatibility issues have been addressed through native applications and effective emulation, gaming remains a notable challenge in this ecosystem.
Compatibility Challenges in Gaming
Chris Bergey, Senior VP of Arm Holdings, recently shared insights with PC Gamer, indicating that while core compatibility issues are largely resolved, the performance gap that gamers are acutely aware of has yet to be bridged. Interestingly, most users find that approximately 90% of their time is spent on applications that have a native Arm version.
However, a significant hurdle persists: the compatibility of anti-cheat programs with popular online games. These complex systems can prevent games from launching entirely, regardless of their performance on Qualcomm or other Arm-based processors. Bergey elaborates, “The software is actually looking for some registers… well those registers don’t exist in the architecture.” Despite ongoing efforts from Arm and Microsoft to address these issues, challenges remain. There are promising signs that major developers, such as Epic Games, the creators of Fortnite, are exploring ways to enhance compatibility with Arm-based Windows laptops.
Moreover, anti-cheat compatibility issues also contribute to the incompatibility of Windows games with the Steam Deck. Although the Steam Deck operates on an AMD processor, its Linux-based SteamOS lacks native versions of several popular anti-cheat systems. This situation underscores the complexity of modern gaming, particularly in the realm of online multiplayer.
Bergey believes that as Arm-based Windows devices continue to capture a larger market share, game developers will increasingly prioritize support for these platforms. With an expanding array of games being developed for consoles, PCs, and mobile devices, alongside versatile engines like Unreal and Unity, the rationale for this shift becomes clear. Additionally, achieving compatibility for Windows on Arm could potentially streamline the process for macOS, given that Apple has been utilizing Arm-based chips in its computers for several years.
One can only imagine the possibilities that an Arm-based Windows handheld could present. While most devices inspired by the Steam Deck have relied on AMD components, mobile Arm-based chips are already powering smaller, emulation-focused devices, often running Android. Integrating Windows and Steam into such a device—especially one boasting extended battery life and a more efficient version of Windows 11—could indeed revolutionize the gaming landscape.
