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Microsoft commits to improve gaming on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs — “We’re developing new features that will enable more games to be played on Arm”
August 14, 2025
Microsoft has unveiled a new preview update for the Xbox app on Windows 11, marking a significant milestone for users of Arm-based devices, such as those powered by the Snapdragon X system on a chip (SoC). This update introduces the long-awaited capability to download Xbox PC games directly onto these devices, a feature that has been absent until now.
Previously, the Xbox app on Arm-powered PCs was limited to streaming games, primarily through Xbox Cloud Gaming. While users could download titles from third-party platforms like Steam and Origin, the Xbox app restricted this functionality, leaving many gamers yearning for a more integrated experience. The Microsoft Store similarly imposed limitations, preventing the majority of games from being downloaded on Arm-based systems.
Enhancing Game Compatibility
With the release of the Windows 11 version 24H2 update, Microsoft introduced an enhanced emulation layer designed to improve the performance of x86 applications and games on Arm devices. However, despite these advancements, numerous games still face compatibility issues, with some failing to run altogether. A significant hurdle has been the reliance on anti-cheat services, which are not natively compiled for Arm and struggle under emulation. If Microsoft can refine the operating system to support these services more effectively, it could open the door for a broader range of games to function seamlessly on Arm.
When Qualcomm first announced its Snapdragon X SoC, it emphasized gaming as a pivotal area of enhancement for this new generation of chips. For the first time, Arm-powered Windows PCs were poised to run AAA titles, even under emulation, thanks to Microsoft’s innovative emulation layer. However, upon the Snapdragon X platform’s launch, gamers encountered performance issues and compatibility challenges. While many titles were playable, the emulation layer often resulted in performance hiccups and graphical glitches, which would not have occurred had the games been natively compiled for Arm.
The most pressing concern for gamers on Windows Arm PCs has been the anti-cheat mechanism. Many popular titles, including Halo Infinite, Fortnite, and League of Legends, have remained unplayable due to their dependence on these services. Despite running well under emulation, the absence of native support has left a gap in the gaming experience for Arm users. Microsoft’s plans to address these critical issues with the emulation layer could be a game changer.
This is the type of error you’ll see on a lot of games on Arm currently. (Image credit: Windows Central)
Looking ahead, NVIDIA is rumored to be developing an Arm-based chip that could debut as soon as next year. This development could usher in a new era for Arm-powered Windows PCs, potentially enhancing gaming performance significantly. As such, it is imperative for Microsoft to address the current limitations in gaming on Windows Arm before this new wave of hardware arrives.
In recent months, Microsoft has rolled out substantial updates to Windows 11 aimed at elevating the gaming experience across the board. The company has committed to creating a dedicated user interface and experience tailored for handheld gaming PCs, including the recently announced Xbox ROG Ally. While the market has yet to see any Arm-powered handheld gaming PCs running Windows 11, Qualcomm’s recent introduction of the Snapdragon G, an SoC specifically designed for handheld devices, suggests that the landscape is evolving rapidly. NVIDIA is likely to join this trend, making it essential for Microsoft to enhance gaming capabilities on Windows Arm in the interim.
As the gaming community watches these developments unfold, the anticipation for improved performance and compatibility on Arm-based devices continues to grow. What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s recent initiatives to bolster gaming on Windows 11? Share your insights in the comments.
Microsoft commits to improve gaming on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs — “We’re developing new features that will enable more games to be played on Arm”
Microsoft has unveiled a new preview update for the Xbox app on Windows 11, marking a significant milestone for users of Arm-based devices, such as those powered by the Snapdragon X system on a chip (SoC). This update introduces the long-awaited capability to download Xbox PC games directly onto these devices, a feature that has been absent until now.
Previously, the Xbox app on Arm-powered PCs was limited to streaming games, primarily through Xbox Cloud Gaming. While users could download titles from third-party platforms like Steam and Origin, the Xbox app restricted this functionality, leaving many gamers yearning for a more integrated experience. The Microsoft Store similarly imposed limitations, preventing the majority of games from being downloaded on Arm-based systems.
Enhancing Game Compatibility
With the release of the Windows 11 version 24H2 update, Microsoft introduced an enhanced emulation layer designed to improve the performance of x86 applications and games on Arm devices. However, despite these advancements, numerous games still face compatibility issues, with some failing to run altogether. A significant hurdle has been the reliance on anti-cheat services, which are not natively compiled for Arm and struggle under emulation. If Microsoft can refine the operating system to support these services more effectively, it could open the door for a broader range of games to function seamlessly on Arm.
When Qualcomm first announced its Snapdragon X SoC, it emphasized gaming as a pivotal area of enhancement for this new generation of chips. For the first time, Arm-powered Windows PCs were poised to run AAA titles, even under emulation, thanks to Microsoft’s innovative emulation layer. However, upon the Snapdragon X platform’s launch, gamers encountered performance issues and compatibility challenges. While many titles were playable, the emulation layer often resulted in performance hiccups and graphical glitches, which would not have occurred had the games been natively compiled for Arm.
The most pressing concern for gamers on Windows Arm PCs has been the anti-cheat mechanism. Many popular titles, including Halo Infinite, Fortnite, and League of Legends, have remained unplayable due to their dependence on these services. Despite running well under emulation, the absence of native support has left a gap in the gaming experience for Arm users. Microsoft’s plans to address these critical issues with the emulation layer could be a game changer.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
Looking ahead, NVIDIA is rumored to be developing an Arm-based chip that could debut as soon as next year. This development could usher in a new era for Arm-powered Windows PCs, potentially enhancing gaming performance significantly. As such, it is imperative for Microsoft to address the current limitations in gaming on Windows Arm before this new wave of hardware arrives.
In recent months, Microsoft has rolled out substantial updates to Windows 11 aimed at elevating the gaming experience across the board. The company has committed to creating a dedicated user interface and experience tailored for handheld gaming PCs, including the recently announced Xbox ROG Ally. While the market has yet to see any Arm-powered handheld gaming PCs running Windows 11, Qualcomm’s recent introduction of the Snapdragon G, an SoC specifically designed for handheld devices, suggests that the landscape is evolving rapidly. NVIDIA is likely to join this trend, making it essential for Microsoft to enhance gaming capabilities on Windows Arm in the interim.
As the gaming community watches these developments unfold, the anticipation for improved performance and compatibility on Arm-based devices continues to grow. What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s recent initiatives to bolster gaming on Windows 11? Share your insights in the comments.