As the deadline for Windows 10’s end of support looms closer, Microsoft is actively encouraging users to transition to Windows 11 or invest in new PCs that will receive support beyond October 2025. In a recent blog post, the tech giant has outlined the gaming benefits that come with upgrading to the latest operating system. Highlighting features such as Auto HDR and DirectStorage, Microsoft aims to showcase how Windows 11 can enhance the gaming experience.
According to the company, “In addition to an unparalleled library of supported games, accessories and hardware, Windows 11 also offers players an exciting array of gaming features that can help enhance your fun on the latest titles, as well as the games you’re already playing.” The features that stand out in this latest offering include:
- Auto HDR
- DirectStorage
- Game Bar Contact Mode
- Dynamic Lighting
- Optimizations for Windowed games
- HDR Calibration app (Exclusive to Windows 11)
- Advanced Hybrid (CASO)/UMA
- Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 support
- Color filters for colorblind players
- Automatic Super Resolution for Arm Copilot+ PCs
- Xbox app on Windows PC
For gamers equipped with compatible hardware, such as HDR-supporting monitors and NVMe SSDs capable of utilizing DirectStorage, Windows 11 promises to deliver an enhanced gaming experience. The introduction of Game Bar Compact Mode caters specifically to gaming handhelds, potentially influencing those weighing their options between consoles running SteamOS and Windows 11.
However, the pivotal question remains: will these features be compelling enough to motivate users to upgrade their PCs or purchase new systems running Windows 11? As October approaches, it will be interesting to observe how the user base reacts to the impending end of support for Windows 10. While it is anticipated that many will continue using unsupported PCs for the time being, it is worth noting that gamers may not constitute the majority of those remaining on Windows 10.
Gaming on Windows 11
According to the Steam Hardware & Software Survey from November 2024, Windows 11 has captured a 52.48% market share among Steam users. While this statistic offers a glimpse into the landscape of PC gamers, it does not provide a comprehensive view, given the multitude of ways to engage with games on a Windows platform. Notably, Windows 11 only surpassed Windows 10 in market share among Steam users around the middle of 2024.
Despite a gradual adoption rate, gamers have shown a quicker transition to Windows 11 compared to the general user base. Current data from Statcounter indicates that Windows 10 holds a 61.82% market share, while Windows 11 stands at 34.94%. This trend raises further questions about whether Microsoft will consider lowering the minimum requirements for Windows 11, as users can technically install the OS on unsupported PCs, albeit without official support.